The first American pope calls for release of jailed reporters, celebrates free speech, and hints at upcoming visit to Turkey to mark Council of Nicea anniversary
VATICAN CITY — In a powerful display of solidarity with the media, Pope Leo XIV on Monday made a resounding call for the release of imprisoned journalists around the world and hailed free speech and press freedom as a “precious gift” essential to peace and justice.
The newly elected pontiff — the first American pope in Catholic Church history — made the remarks during his first public audience with the general public, where he addressed over 6,000 journalists gathered in Rome to cover his surprise election. The audience, held in a packed Vatican auditorium, was part of a carefully choreographed yet warm and personal introduction of the 69-year-old Augustinian missionary to the world.
“I ask all of you to use your words for peace, not for division. To defend the voiceless, not the powerful. To seek truth, not propaganda,” Pope Leo said in his address.
A Historic Papacy Begins with a Message of Peace
Pope Leo XIV’s election last week in a swift 24-hour conclave marked a historic turning point for the Catholic Church. Born and raised in the United States and known for his humble, missionary lifestyle and grassroots approach to evangelism, Leo’s ascension signaled a shift toward a more global and reform-minded Vatican.
In his address on Monday, Leo wasted no time establishing his pastoral priorities, highlighting peacebuilding, media integrity, and the freedom of the press as central to his vision. His words were met with repeated applause — and a standing ovation as he entered the hall, a rare and emotional moment in Vatican tradition.
“Words Can Heal or Harm”: Leo’s Challenge to Journalists
Speaking first in English and then continuing in Italian, Leo charmed the crowd with self-effacing humor.
“If you’re still awake and clapping at the end, I’ll know I said something worth printing,” he quipped, prompting laughter across the hall.
He then pivoted to a more serious message, calling journalism one of the “great responsibilities of our age.” He emphasized that in an era of global conflict and misinformation, truthful reporting and moral integrity in media are more vital than ever.
“Words can heal or they can harm,” he said. “You have the power to shape narratives, to build bridges, to break down walls. Use it wisely.”
Warm Encounters and Personal Moments
Following his speech, the pope descended from the stage to personally greet many journalists seated in the front rows. In a break from the usual protocol, he shook hands, signed autographs, and even posed for selfies, exuding an approachable charm that endeared him to many in the room.
Reporters who exchanged brief words with the pope shared anecdotes that revealed more about the direction his papacy may take. Most notably, several journalists confirmed that Vatican plans are progressing for a papal visit to Turkey, where Pope Leo is expected to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, the first ecumenical council in Christian history.
The visit, if confirmed, would carry immense ecumenical significance as the Catholic and Orthodox churches continue efforts toward reconciliation after centuries of division.
“He’s One of Us”: Journalists Praise Pope’s Authenticity
Reactions from the press corps were overwhelmingly positive.
“He didn’t just give a speech. He connected,” said Maria Bonetti, an Italian correspondent. “You could feel the sincerity. For once, we weren’t just observers—we were seen.”
Some journalists even made lighthearted suggestions during their encounters, including offers to play doubles tennis with the pope or host a charity match. Pope Leo, known to be an avid tennis player, responded with a laugh, joking: “Only if we don’t invite Sinner,” a reference to Italian world number one Jannik Sinner, currently playing in the nearby Italian Open.
Press Freedom as a Moral Imperative
Pope Leo’s appeal for the release of imprisoned journalists has already drawn international attention. While he did not name specific countries or cases, his statement is being interpreted as a broad rebuke of growing media repression worldwide.
Over the past year, watchdog organizations such as Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists have documented rising threats to press freedom, with dozens of reporters jailed or attacked for their work.
“The Pope’s message is both timely and courageous,” said Amal Khatib, a Middle East correspondent. “To hear a global religious leader take a firm stand on our rights—it gives us hope.”
A Papacy Rooted in Mission and Modernity
Leo XIV’s background as an Augustinian missionary who spent decades working in rural communities in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia has shaped his inclusive, ground-up approach to leadership. Vatican analysts believe his papacy will likely emphasize outreach to marginalized communities, interfaith dialogue, and modernization of Church structures.
His embrace of digital communication and social media is already evident. Vatican insiders report that the new pope is keen on expanding online evangelism, addressing climate change, and engaging with youth culture, particularly through platforms that reach younger generations directly.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for the Vatican
As journalists filed out of the audience hall, many noted the historic nature of the event and the unmistakable shift in tone from previous pontificates.
“There was joy, humility, and urgency,” said John Martell, a Vatican correspondent for a major U.S. news outlet. “Pope Leo seems ready to lead — not just the Church — but a broader moral movement for peace and dignity.”
The Vatican has not yet officially confirmed the full itinerary of Pope Leo’s early travels, but aides say announcements are expected in the coming weeks. The potential visit to Turkey would be his first major foreign trip and could set the tone for a papacy defined by bridge-building and reconciliation.
For now, Leo XIV’s first encounter with the press has set a high standard — not just for papal messaging, but for the evolving relationship between faith, truth, and global communication.
