VATICAN CITY, OCT. 30, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The theme Benedict XVI chose for the 2008 World Communications Day focuses on the media at the service of truth.

The Pope chose "The Media: At the Crossroads Between Activism and Service. Seeking the Truth in Order to Share It With Others” as the theme for the 42nd world day, to be celebrated in most countries on the Sunday before Pentecost, this year, May 4.

Archbishop Claudio Celli, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, said: "The theme chosen by the Holy Father for World Communications Day calls on us to reflect on the role played by the media and especially the increasing risk of their becoming self-absorbed and no longer tools at the service of truth -- something that is meant to be sought and shared."

World Communications Day is the only worldwide celebration called for by the Second Vatican Council, in its decree “Inter Mirifica."

The Holy Father’s message for World Communications Day is traditionally published in conjunction with the Memorial of St. Francis de Sales, patron of writers, Jan. 24.

ZE07103005 - 2007-10-30