The Digital Papacy: Cardinals Embrace Social Media Amidst Conclave Secrecy
The passing of Pope Francis has ushered in a new era for the Catholic Church, one marked not only by the selection of a new pontiff but also by the unprecedented use of social media by the cardinals participating in the conclave. This digital engagement stands in stark contrast to the 2013 conclave, where platforms like Twitter (now X) were less ubiquitous. Cardinals are leveraging these platforms to offer glimpses into their activities in Rome, fostering a sense of connection with the public and shedding light on the typically secretive process of selecting a new pope. From selfies on buses to requests for prayers, the cardinals are painting a more accessible picture of the church’s hierarchy.
This shift towards digital transparency is attributed to the growing influence of social media within the Church, particularly under the leadership of Pope Francis. While cardinals previously used these platforms primarily for doctrinal and spiritual messages, the focus has now shifted towards the papacy and the conclave itself. This change reflects a broader movement within the Church towards greater openness and engagement with the digital world. Cardinals are increasingly recognizing the importance of connecting with their followers on a personal level, understanding that the traditional image of distant, aloof clergymen no longer resonates with a modern audience.
However, this embrace of social media is not without its risks. Canon law expert and professor at the Catholic University of America, Kurt Martens, cautions that cardinals must exercise extreme care in their online communications. The secrecy surrounding the conclave is paramount, and any breach of confidentiality, even unintentional, could result in severe sanctions, including excommunication. The delicate balance between transparency and discretion becomes even more precarious given the intense scrutiny that accompanies this pivotal moment in the Church’s history.
Furthermore, the cardinals face the unavoidable challenge of navigating the often turbulent waters of online discourse. Negative comments, ranging from political criticisms to critiques of the Church’s handling of the sex abuse crisis, are a common occurrence on social media. While ignoring these comments might seem like the safest course of action, it also creates a disconnect, hindering the genuine two-way communication that social media is designed to facilitate. Finding a way to engage constructively with criticism while upholding the dignity of their office presents a complex dilemma for these digitally active cardinals.
Despite these potential pitfalls, the integration of social media within the Church represents a significant departure from traditional hierarchical structures. Religious studies professor Jana Bennett notes that these platforms empower individuals to seek religious insight from a wider range of sources, fostering a more personalized and diversified approach to faith. No longer confined to the teachings of their local parish, Catholics can now engage directly with cardinals, bishops, and other religious leaders, creating a more dynamic and interactive spiritual experience.
The legacy of papal engagement with social media, initiated by Pope Benedict XVI’s introduction of the @Pontifex Twitter account and continued by Pope Francis, has paved the way for the next generation of Church leadership. Gustavo Entrala, a strategic communications consultant who has worked with both popes, anticipates that the next pontiff will not only embrace social media but potentially expand its use through mediums like livestreaming. This evolution reflects a growing awareness within the Church of the power of digital platforms to connect with a global audience and foster a greater sense of community and accessibility. The conclave of 2025 marks a turning point, signifying not just the selection of a new pope, but the dawn of a truly digital papacy.
