Rumors are swirling in Rome that Pope Francis is drafting a new, major encyclical dedicated entirely to humanity's relationship with the digital world. Following his landmark writings on the environment (Laudato Si'), this anticipated document is expected to address the profound psychological and spiritual impacts of social media, virtual reality, and the hyper-connected economy.
Theologians expect the Pope to warn against the "digital throwaway culture" and the fragmentation of truth on the internet, while also providing a hopeful theological framework for how believers can use technology to foster genuine human connection and solidarity. It promises to be a defining text for Faith Coders and digital missionaries for decades to come.