VATICAN CITY, MARCH 13, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Here is the address read on behalf of John Paul II today before the midday Angelus at St. Peter’s Square. Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, substitute of the Vatican Secretariat of State, read the text before imparting a blessing in the Pope’s name.
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Dear Brothers and Sisters!
1. In these days of hospitalization here at the Gemelli, I notice in a particular way the presence and attention of so many agents of the mass media. Today I wish to address a word of gratitude to them, because I know that they carry out — not without sacrifice — their appreciated service, thanks to which the faithful, in all parts of the world, can feel me closer and support me with affection and prayer.
2. The role of the mass media is very important in our age of global communication. Great, also, is the responsibility of all those who work in this field, called to provide always accurate information, respectful of the dignity of the human person and attentive to the common good.
In this time of Lent, which invites us to nourish ourselves more abundantly with the Word of God, I would like to recall that it is also possible to nourish one’s spirit through radio, television and Internet. I am grateful to those who, appreciating the mass media, are dedicated to these new forms of evangelization.
3. Let us pray, finally, to Mary Most Holy that she may help us to prepare well for Holy Week, which will begin next Sunday. I hope to see numerous young people take part, in St. Peter’s Square, in the solemn liturgy of Palm Sunday, which will project us toward World Youth Day, planned in Cologne, Germany.
