Archbishop Martin welcomes Pope Leo’s stance on digital dignity

Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, has warmly welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s message for the 60th World Day of Social Communications, Preserving human voices and faces, describing it as both timely and deeply hopeful.  He encouraged people to reflect on and study the message ahead of the celebration on May 17 2026.

In his message, the Holy Father reflects on the growing influence of digital technology and artificial intelligence, calling on people everywhere to cherish human dignity, protect authentic communication, and safeguard what makes each person unique - their voice, and their capacity for relationship.

Responding to the message, Archbishop Martin said, “Pope Leo’s words speak directly into the heart of our digital age.  At a time when so much of our communication is mediated through screens and systems, he reminds us that real communication is always personal.  It is not simply the exchange of information, but an encounter between people.

"Our voices reveal who we truly are - each of us known, loved, and called into relationship.”

Archbishop Martin noted that the message resonates strongly in an Irish context, where community, storytelling, and personal connection are deeply woven into everyday life saying, “In Ireland, we have always valued conversation, hospitality, and human closeness. These are gifts to be treasured.  Pope Leo challenges us to ensure that technological progress supports these values rather than eroding them.

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“This is especially important for young people growing up in a digital world, as we help them develop critical thinking, digital responsibility, and a deep sense of spiritual freedom.”

Archbishop Martin also highlighted the Holy Father’s call for ethical responsibility in the development and use of artificial intelligence, particularly in the fields of media, education, and public discourse, saying “Pope Leo’s appeal for responsibility, cooperation, and education could not be more urgent.

Technology must always serve the human person, not replace or diminish them.  We must ensure that these powerful tools promote truth, inclusion, and the common good, rather than contributing to manipulation, polarisation, or isolation.

The Primate further welcomed the strong emphasis placed on media literacy, information literacy, and AI literacy, encouraging schools, parishes, families, and Catholic organisations across Ireland to engage actively with these themes saying, “World Day of Social Communications invites us to pause and reflect on how we communicate - both online and face to face - and how we witness to Christ through our words, images, and actions. As Christians, we are called to communicate in ways that reflect compassion, honesty, and deep respect for human dignity.”

Archbishop Martin concluded by inviting all those involved in media, communications, education, and pastoral ministry across Ireland to take time to reflect on the Holy Father’s message, and to renew their commitment to building a culture of communication that is authentic, humane, and full of hope.