THEME FOR WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY

VATICAN CITY, SEP 29, 2005 (VIS) - "The Media: A Network for Communication, Communion and Cooperation" is the theme chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for the 40th World Communications Day 2006, according to a communique made public today.

  According to Archbishop John P. Foley, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, "this first theme chosen by the Holy Father Benedict XVI for a World Communications Day underlines his own appreciation of the ability of the communications media not only to make known needed information but also to promote fruitful cooperation."

  World Communications Day is marked in most countries, on the recommendation of the bishops of the world, on the Sunday before Pentecost. In 2006 it will fall on May 28.

  The Holy Father's message for World Communications Day is traditionally published on January 24, Feast of St. Francis of Sales, patron of writers and journalists.
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