October 7, 2010. Benedict XVI has met with journalists from around the world who have participated in an international conference organized by the Vatican.
Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli Prefect, Pontifical Council for Social Communications
“We have asked ourselves what is now the mission of the Catholic press in society and in the Church.”
The Pope said that if the mass media describes itself as “Catholic” it should be characterized by telling the truth and working with professionalism.
He said the mission of journalists is to give hope to the world, to help people live with dignity and to build their future.
Benedict XVI
“I cordially impart my blessing, full of affection and of gratitude, and would like to embrace those of you present and those who work in the Catholic press throughout the world”.
Apart from the press conferences during papal trips, this was only the second official meeting Benedict XVI has had with reporters. The first was a few days after being elected Pope, when he met in the Paul VI Hall journalists from around the world who had reported on the conclave.
At the end of the meeting, the Pope received a gift from the 33 miners trapped nearly 700 feet underground in the city of San Jose in Chile. Their present was a flag signed by all of them.
The Pope said he is closely monitoring the situation and hopes they will be rescued as soon as possible.
JMB
CTV
-WP-
