In a written statement, the Pope said,

This desire for communication and friendship is rooted in our very nature as human beings and cannot be adequately understood as a response to technical innovations. In the light of the biblical message, it should be seen primarily as a reflection of our participation in the communicative and unifying Love of God, who desires to make all of humanity one family.

He also made note of the benefits of what he called the new culture of communication: families being able to maintain contact despite great distances, greater access of information for students and teachers, and the interactive nature of new media which allows for more dynamic forms of learning and communication. According to the Pope, all of these contribute to social progress.

Archbishop Claudio Celli, who heads the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, noted that new communication technologies are not the solution to our problems, but the positive effects are considerable.

Arch. Claudio Celli
President, Pontifical Council for Social Communications
The Pope is aware of the limits and the ambiguities associated with new technologies. But I believe that his message makes the positive aspects stand out. That is why I emphasize how the message is characterized by a positive attitude and evaluation of new technologies.

He also remembered a previous Pope's views on the wonders of modern technology, when radio and television were cutting edge inventions.

Arch. Claudio Celli
President, Pontifical Council for Social Communications
If you will allow me to remember a definition of Pius XII who, when talking about technology from his times, defined it as a real gift from God. I wonder what he would say today if he saw the technologies that are at our disposal.

The Pope also praised the emergence of new online networks that promote values held by the Church, such as human solidarity, peace and justice, human rights, and respect for human life.