- 30 July, 2025
Vatican City, July 29, 2025: St. Peter’s Basilica was filled with young Catholics from around the world on 29 July for the concluding Mass of the Jubilee for Digital Missionaries and Catholic Influencers. The Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, served as a moment of reflection and renewal for all those using digital platforms to share the Gospel.
"Everyone is an Influencer"
In his homily, Cardinal Tagle explored the deeper meaning of “influence” in today’s world. “Everyone is an influencer,” he said, “and everyone is influenced.” He described life as a “tapestry of crisscrossing influences” shaped by families, schools, communities, and social environments.
He warned against corrupted methods of influence—such as false advertising, coercion, and violence—and called participants to examine the intentions behind their digital presence. “The change we wish to see in the world is directly connected to how we choose to influence others,” he said.
Reflecting on the Scriptures, Cardinal Tagle noted that God, rather than sending a message or link, sent His Son. He urged all present to let divine love shape their mission: “Let the love of God in Jesus and the Holy Spirit prevent poisonous influences from flowing into human hearts and societies.”
Pope Leo’s Appeal for Peace
At the end of the Mass, Pope Leo XIV addressed the congregation in Spanish, English, and Italian. He issued a heartfelt call for peace: “How much we need peace in these times torn apart by enmity and war.”
He reminded the digital missionaries of their crucial role in today’s fragmented world: “Peace needs to be sought, proclaimed, and shared everywhere—both in conflict zones and in the hearts of those who have lost the meaning of existence.”
Ensuring a Human Digital Culture
In a society increasingly shaped by technology, Pope Leo called on Catholic influencers to keep the digital culture “truly human.” He challenged them to see “the suffering flesh of Christ” in every online encounter and never allow technology to compromise human dignity.
Digital missionaries, he added, are tasked with promoting a “Christian humanism”—a culture grounded in love, truth, and service.
"Mend the Nets of Friendship"
More than creating content, the Pope urged attendees to “create encounters among hearts” and to “mend the nets” of love, friendship, and authentic dialogue. He warned against “filter bubbles” that isolate and silence the most vulnerable, and called for a digital network rooted in God’s inclusive love.
Pope Leo concluded by thanking the participants for their commitment to evangelising online. Among them were Abhishek Joseph and Fr Ritchie Vincent, who represented India at the Jubilee event, highlighting the global reach and shared mission of this new generation of Catholic influencers.
Courtesy: Vatican News
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