Pope Leo hails journalists, decries polarizing language

Pope Leo XIV took his first audience with journalists in Vatican City, emphasizing the importance of truth and a free press amid an era of divisive communication fueled by prejudice and hatred. The encounter, marked by moments of personal interaction with reporters—such as receiving a white baseball bat and an alpaca scarf—he also thanked those who risked their lives for accurate reporting. This moment, setting a precedent in papal engagement with the media, underscores his commitment to combating polarization while defending journalists' roles in seeking truth.