The Vatican has issued its theme for the upcoming World Communications Day — traditionally marked on the Sunday before Pentecost, when the era of Christian communication began.

From Zenit:

The theme chosen by Benedict XVI for World Communications Day reflects the Pope’s confidence in the press and its possibilities, says a Vatican official.

Archbishop Claudio Celli affirmed this today when announcing the theme for the world day: “New Technologies, New Relationships. Promoting a Culture of Respect, Dialogue and Friendship.”

“More than simply a theme, I think the Pope has put before us a genuine program of work,” he said. “[It is] a compendium of the commitments and responsibilities that communication and communicators are called to personally assume at a time so characterized by the development of new technologies which, in fact, create a new environment, a new culture.

“In a certain sense, it could be said that the Pope is asking from communicators today what he asked for during his meeting with the world of culture in Paris, that is, to assume a truly philosophical attitude: to look beyond penultimate things and launch themselves into the search for ultimate and true things.”

All of this, Archbishop Celli affirmed, points to the “Pope’s confidence in the possibilities of the media.”

He said that the Holy Father’s emphasis on the new relationships that should arise from new technologies touches fundamental elements of communication. “Progress in means does not simply imply a step forward, but always brings new conditions and possibilities that humanity can use and invest for the common good and make into the basis for ample and widespread cultural growth,” he explained.

To respond to Benedict XVI’s invitation, Archbishop Celli announced that a bishops’ meeting is scheduled for March, to bring together prelates responsible for communication and media experts. The conference will aim to formulate a more precise and modern pastoral program for the media.

The World Day of Communications is the only worldwide celebration established by the Second Vatican Council (“Inter Mirifica,” 1963). It is observed around the world the Sunday before Pentecost.