Their sacred calling constrains them to proclaim clearly and openly that
unhealthy and impure entertainment destroys the moral fibre of a nation. They
will likewise remind the motion picture industry that the demands which they
make regard not only the Catholics but all who patronize the cinema.
In particular, you, Venerable Brethren of the United
States, will be able to
insist with justice that the industry of your country has recognized and
accepted its responsibility before society.
The Bishops of the whole world will take care to make clear to the
leaders of the motion picture industry that a force of such power and
universality as the cinema can be directed, with great utility, to the highest
ends of individual and social improvement. Why indeed should there be question
merely of avoiding what is evil? The motion picture should not be simply a
means of diversion, a light relaxation to occupy an idle hour; with its
magnificent power, it can and must be a bearer of light and a positive guide to
what is good.
And now, in view of the gravity of the subject, We consider it timely to
come down to certain practical indications.