VATICAN - “The Media: A Network for Communication, Communion and Cooperation" is the theme chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for the 40th World Communications Day 2006

Vatican City (Fides Service) - “The Media: A Network for Communication, Communion and Cooperation" is the theme chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for the 40th World Communications Day 2006 as announced by Archbishop John P. Foley, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications which prepares study and liturgical material to distribute to Bishops’ conferences around the world. The Archbishop said "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 theme for the day is traditionally made public on 29 September, feast of Archangels Michael, Rafael and Gabriel the latter being the patron for people who work in the field of radio. Whereas the Holy Father's message for World Communications Day is usually published on January 24, Feast of St. Francis of Sales, patron of writers and journalists so that dioceses and organisations have ample time to prepare audio-visual and other material for celebrations at national and local level. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 29/9/2005; righe 17, parole 229)