"Social Networks: portals of truth and faith; new spaces
for evangelization " is the theme chosen by Benedict XVI for the 47th World
Day for Social Communications, released Saturday, the day that the Church dedicated
to the archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.The Pontifical Council for Social Communications, in a statement shows how the digital environment is today one of the most significant challenges of evangelization.
Pope Benedict XVI calls attention to this particular topic, in the context of the Year of Faith, in his choice of the theme for the 47th World Communications Day, - the only one established by Vatican II - which is celebrated in many countries on the recommendation of the bishops of the world, on the Sunday before Pentecost (in 2013, May 12).
"The theme suggests a series of important points for reflection - writes the Vatican Dicastery - It is not enough to find an adequate language, but rather, it is necessary to learn how to present the Gospel as the answer to that basic human yearning for meaning and faith, which has already found expression online. Such an approach, which will serve to create a more dynamic and humane digital world, requires a new way of thinking. It is not simply a question of how to use the internet as a means of evangelization, but instead of how to evangelize in a context where the lives of people find expression also in the digital arena. In particular, we need to be attentive to the emergence and enormous popularity of the social networks, which privilege dialogical and interactive forms of communication and relationships."
The Pope's message for the Day is traditionally published in conjunction with the Memorial of St. Francis de Sales, Patron Saint of journalists (January 24).