Catholic Church calls on journalists to report the truth

The National Youth & Careers

The Catholic Church has recognised May 13 as 52nd World Communication Day and the Catholic Bishops Conference in Port Moresby marked the day by inviting journalists to an open discussion on Saturday.
The theme was ‘Journalism for Peace: The truth will set you free — put a spotlight on fake news and elements that fuel its popularity in society’.
Bereina Catholic diocese Bishop Rochus Tatamai said journalism was powerful and it could be a tool for peace and truth in Papua New Guinea.
“Journalism is a tough job because reporters are challenged everyday with less time to report facts and the truth,” Archbishop Mathew Kurian SDB, Papal Nucio to PNG and Solomon Islands, said.
Pope Francis in his message said: “Communication is part of God’s plan and an essential way to experience fellowship, and he quoted from the book of John (8:32), ‘The truth will set you free’.”
During the event Archbishop Kurian, Bishop Tatamai and Father Ambrose Pereira SDB discussed with reporters four important points. They were:

  • What is fake about fake news;
  • how to recognise fake news;
  • truth and freedom; and,
  • Peace is the true news

The discussion was based on fake news because it causes division from the highest of authorities to grassroots and provokes chaos and confusion among people.
Kurian said the voice of the last, lost and the least must be heard because the media cover more big events and negative news.
“There are many good and positive news out there that needs to be heard,” Kurian said.
He urged reporters to report the truth to maintain peace and promote disharmony.
The conversation was centered on Pope Francis’ message condemning fake news as “snake tactics” used to mislead societies.
“We need to unmask what could be called the ‘snake-tactics’ used by those who disguise themselves to strike at any time and place,” he said. Kurian thanked the journalists for their commitment to spreading the truth.