Pope to comedians: Help us to dream of a better world

By Christopher Wells

Comedians are among the most appreciated and applauded artists, Pope Francis said Friday morning, because they “have and cultivate the gift of making people laugh.”

With so much “dark news”, in the midst of both public and personal crises, comedians are able to spread “serenity and smiles” and are among the few who can speak “to very different people, from different generations and different cultures. backgrounds. »

Precisely because “laughter is contagious,” it can “break down social barriers and create bonds,” the Pope said, noting that comedians remind us that “playful pleasure and laughter are at the heart of human life.” .

A precious gift

Pope Francis told the actors they possessed “a precious gift” that can spread peace “in hearts and among peoples, helping us to overcome difficulties and cope with daily stress.”

The Holy Father then highlighted another “miracle” of comedians, the ability to make people smile even when they tackle serious subjects. “You denounce the excesses of power, give voice to forgotten situations, highlight abuses, report inappropriate behavior… but without sowing alarm and terror, anxiety or fear,” he told them .

Make God smile

Taking a mystical turn, Pope Francis emphasized that in creation, “divine Wisdom has practiced your art for the benefit of none other than God himself, the first spectator of history”, with God rejoicing in the works that 'he had carried out.

“Don’t forget that,” he told the actors. “When you manage to bring intelligent smiles to the lips of even a single spectator, you also make God smile.”

Never “against” anyone

He emphasized that thinking and speaking with a sense of humor helps us understand and gain insight into human nature. Humor, the Pope said, “does not offend, does not humiliate, does not ‘nail’ people on their faults.” Unlike other forms of communication, he argued, humor “is never 'against' anyone, but is always inclusive and proactive, and elicits openness, sympathy and 'empathy.

In fact, the Pope said, “we can even laugh at God, just as we play and joke with those we love.” But, he added, this must be done without offending the religious feelings of believers, especially the poor.

Dreaming of a better world

Pope Francis concluded his speech by blessing those present and their art. “Continue to lift people’s spirits, especially those who find it hardest to look at life with hope,” he said. “Help us, with a smile, to see reality with its contradictions and to dream of a better world!