The “spiritual diseases” of media: Cardinal Parolin’s warning for authentic communication
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, has issued an important appeal to the Catholic communicators community, warning against the “spiritual diseases” that can afflict the media world. During a Mass celebrated at St. Peter’s Basilica for the International Conference of Catholic institutional communicators, Parolin outlined three main pitfalls to avoid.
The first concerns the temptation to set oneself up as “rabbi” or teacher, a risk particularly present in mass media and social media systems, where narcissistic self-exposure can easily take over. As an antidote, the Cardinal reminds that the only true Teacher is the Holy Spirit.
The second point touches on the theme of spiritual paternity. Parolin emphasizes the importance of recognizing ourselves as children and, consequently, as brothers and sisters. This approach should be reflected in communication that doesn’t just inform, but knows how to preserve the mystery of universal brotherhood.
Finally, the Secretary of State warns against the temptation to present oneself as a “guide,” instead inviting the promotion of free and creative work communities. He criticizes the “pathology of control” and excessive defense of exclusive competencies, phenomena that often limit creativity and freedom in communicative contexts.
The concluding message is a call for “adequate and never shouted” communication, characterized by discretion, magnanimity, and reserve. An approach that allows reality to be told while always recognizing “the primary value of others” and the primacy of God the Father.
The celebration, which saw the participation of about 200 communication leaders from Episcopal Conferences and religious families, is part of the Communication Jubilee, representing a significant moment of reflection on the role of Catholic media in the contemporary world.
