The Media And The Family : A Risk And A Richness - 38th World Communications Day

All communication has a moral dimension and must always be inspired by respect for the truth and the dignity of the human person.  Families today face new challenges arising from the varied and often contradictory messages presented by the mass media.  On the one hand, marriage and family life are frequently depicted in a sensitive manner, realistically and sympathetically showing the irreplaceable importance of the family as the fundamental unit of society.

On the other hand, infidelity, sexual activity outside of marriage, and the absence of a moral and spiritual vision of the marriage covenant are depicted uncritically, while positive support is at times given to divorce, contraception, abortion and homosexuality.  Such portrayals are detrimental to the common good of society.

Professional communicators should resist commercial pressures and the demand to conform to secular ideologies.  They should recognise that they have a moral responsibility to exercise wisdom, good judgment and fairness in their presentation of issues involving sexuality, marriage and family life.

Without resorting to censorship, public authorities should set in place regulatory policies and procedures to ensure that the media do not act against the good of family values.

Parents are called to train their offspring in the moderate, critical watchful and prudent use of media in the home.  Parents also need to regulate the use of media in the home and make entertainment a family experience.  Above all, parents should give a good example to children by their thoughtful and selective use of media.

May all who are engaged in the field of communications recognise that they are truly stewards of an immense spiritual power that is meant to enrich the human community.  And may families find in the media a source of support, encouragement and inspiration.

Pope John Paul II
Vatican, 24th January 2004