Benedict XVI Notes Hopes for YouTube Site

VATICAN CITY, JAN. 25, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI says he hopes that increased Vatican presence on the Internet will help those who "have yet to find a response to their spiritual yearning."

The Pope said this today in his English-language remarks after praying the Angelus with crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square. He was alluding to an initiative launched Friday: a new Vatican channel on YouTube.

Speaking of his message for World Communications Day, which was released Friday, he said it concerns "the new technologies which have made the Internet a resource of utmost importance, especially for the so-called digital generation."

"Undoubtedly, wise use of communications technology enables communities to be formed in ways that promote the search for the true, the good and the beautiful, transcending geographical boundaries and ethnic divisions," the Pontiff added. "To this end, the Vatican has launched a new initiative which will make information and news from the Holy See more readily accessible on the world wide Web.

"It is my hope that this initiative will enrich a wide range of people -- including those who have yet to find a response to their spiritual yearning -- through the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ whose message of Good News the Church bears to the ends of the earth."

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On the Net:

Vatican channel on YouTube: www.youtube.com/vatican.