1659 WCD to focus on children and media
austraLasia 1659

World Communications Day '07 to focus on Children and media

VATICAN CITY: 3rd October 2006 -- Pope Benedict used the Feast of the Archangels on 29th September (Raphael is patron  of those who work in radio) to announce the theme he has chosen for the 2007 World Communications Day: Children and Media - a challenge for education.  Traditionally, the Pope announces the theme on 29th September, then offers the text of his message on 24th January, Feast of St Francis de Sales.
    There is no doubt that the 2007 theme will and should influence the Salesian Family, since it is tailor-made for any follower of Don Bosco to promote and exploit to the full.  Readers may expect the Department of Social Communication from Salesian HQ in Rome to announce initiatives in this regard, especially since the Handbook on Social Communication (promoted in austraLasia #1657, viewable from Bosconet if you have already deleted it) makes a point that Salesian communities should look at what initiatives they can promote surrounding the Feast of St Francis de Sales.
    Archbishop Foley, current president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communication, on the release of the Pope's theme has said: "The theme chosen by our Holy Father for World Communications Day underlines the need for parents and educators to realise the important formative influence of the media in the lives of children".
    Most dioceses around the world celebrate WCD on the Sunday before Pentecost, though Bishops Conferences are free to select the appropriate date for themselves.  WCD is the only worldwide celebration called for by the Second Vatican Council.

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