By Katie Ascough - 15 May, 2020
Earlier this year Pope Francis released a message to mark the 54th World Communications Day which will take place on Sunday 24 May, the solemnity of the Ascension of Jesus Christ. Pope Francis reflected on the theme of storytelling this year, with an introduction from the Book of Exodus: “That you may tell your children and grandchildren,” (Ex 10:2).
“Life becomes history,” the Holy Father said. “I would like to devote this year’s Message to the theme of storytelling, because I believe that, so as not to lose our bearings, we need to make our own the truth contained in good stories. Stories that build up, not tear down; stories that help us rediscover our roots and the strength needed to move forward together. Amid the cacophony of voices and messages that surround us, we need a human story that can speak of ourselves and of the beauty all around us. A narrative that can regard our world and its happenings with a tender gaze. A narrative that can tell us that we are part of a living and interconnected tapestry. A narrative that can reveal the interweaving of the threads which connect us to one another.”
To read the full text of the Pope’s message, click here.
According to the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, in welcoming the Pope’s message for World Communications Day, Archbishop Eamon Martin said, “The relationship between the generations is a favourite theme of Pope Francis which he emphasises again today in his World Communications Day message. Throughout his pontificate the Holy Father has sought to develop the synergy that exists between younger and older people by regularly asking them to join forces to make the world a better place.
“That night, at the 2018 Youth Synod, Pope Francis launched a book called Sharing the Wisdom of Time. In the preface he says ‘the Lord wants me to say: that there should be an alliance between the young and old people.’ Pope Francis goes further to explain that this cooperation entails sharing experiences of older people, heeding their advice and creating a strong bond with the new generations who are hungry for guidance and support as they prepare for their future. This is exemplified in his World Communications Day message this year.”
To read Archbishop Eamon Martin’s welcome of this year’s World Communications Day message, click here,
