From January 24 to January 29, 2025, members of the Catholic Journalists’ Association (SIGNIS) from around the world gathered in Rome, Vatican City.
Some of the reasons for their gathering included attending a Holy Mass to celebrate the feast day of Saint Francis de Sales, the patron saint of journalists, commemorating the 2025 Jubilee Year in the field of media, and passing through the Door of Mercy.
During these five days, journalists had the opportunity to tour the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, which serves as the Pope’s seat as the Bishop of Rome.
At this historic site, the journalists engaged in two key spiritual activities: reconciling with God through the Sacrament of Penance and participating in a dedicated Holy Mass for their patron saint.
Another activity they participated in was passing through the Door of Mercy. In addition to this, they had the opportunity to meet and engage in discussions with Pope Francis.
Muhire Jean Felix, the Chief Editor of ICK News and a participant in this event, shared with ICK News that his involvement in the forum was rooted in his past work with the Kinyamateka newspaper.
He explained that, with the support of its director, Father Fidèle Mutabazi, who is also currently in Vatican City, he was able to join this significant gathering.
Muhire also stated that being invited by the Pope is an extraordinary honor that should never be taken for granted.
“It is a blessing because the invitation itself surprised me and deeply touched my heart. When you receive such an invitation from his Holliness, personally addressed to you by name, it is a significant moment that anyone would cherish” he said.
According to Muhire, the fact that a country like Rwanda is among the 70 countries invited by the Pope is a testament to the visibility and impact of the work being done by the Rwandan media.
Pope Francis’ message to these journalists primarily focused on encouraging them to share news that inspires hope rather than discouraging people.
Additionally, he urged them to practice their profession with a commitment to truth, dedication, and to deliver messages that uplift and strengthen the hearts of their audiences.
Pope Francis also emphasized that journalists should be granted the freedom to report without hindrance to ensure the dissemination of reliable information.
He stated: “Having journalists who are free to express themselves is a vital way to promote wisdom and professionalism.”
He further added: “When this freedom is not upheld, we fail to distinguish truth from rumors, which in turn hinders our efforts to build unity.”
Currently, the Catholic Church in Rwanda has four media outlets, including ICK News, Kinyamateka, Radio Maria, and Pacis TV.
