Romania: Pope Francis writes to the young people of Iasi. “Be carriers of hope”. “Use social networks, but don’t be slaves to your smartphones”

“Be carriers of hope and builders of bridges, using every tool you have available to sow goodness and love in the world”, Pope Francis writes to the young Romanians of the diocese of Iasi, as he replied to the letter they sent him through card. Pietro Parolin in mid-May. The Secretary of State had attended the diocesan youth meeting in Iasi on May 18th and 19th, invited by Bishop Iosif Păuleț. The Pope encourages the young to use social networks “with courage and creativity, conveying edifying values: friendship, peace, dialogue between different ethnic groups and cultures, family life and Christian values”. And he calls them to steer clear from becoming slaves to their smartphones and getting stuck in virtual life, to the detriment of real life: “Get out into the world, meet people, listen to their stories, look at your brothers and sisters in the eyes. Real riches lie in the human relations that are experienced every day, in a direct, sincere contact”. In addition, the Holy Father invited them to attend the national youth meeting that will take place in the district of Brasov in September: “It will be an invaluable opportunity to grow together in faith, to share and strengthen your Christian journey”. “Don’t forget to pray for me”, Pope Francis asks at the end of his letter: “Your spiritual support is a priceless gift that helps me serve the Church and mankind”.Valentina Bombelli