Download PDF version of this page24/06/2008
Press release
Issued by the Catholic Communications Network
British pilgrims prepare to receive texts from the Pope
As the countdown to the largest youth event in the world begins, British pilgrims travelling to World Youth Day in Australia are keen to make sure that their mobile phones are compatible with the Australian telecommunications system, so that they don’t miss out on the opportunity of receiving daily World Youth Day texts from the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. From the 15-20 July, World Youth Day pilgrims will be able to receive daily inspirational text messages from the Pope; there will also be digital prayer walls at event sites, an online social networking site, XT3.com and religious teaching will be broadcast on the web.
Telstra, the official telecommunications partner of World Youth Day 2008 will be responsible for connecting more than 8000 volunteers, 2000 clergy, 3000 media and an anticipated 225,000 pilgrims to more than 700 locations across the country.
Ross Kempsell, World Youth Day Communications Officer for the Diocese of Westminster, said: “This event only happens every three years – I’m delighted to be taking part, not only in the real, but also in the virtual World Youth Day world. I definitely won’t be deleting the Holy Father’s texts – I’ll be forwarding them onto my friends and family back home. I’ll also be sending up my prayer requests on the digital prayer wall and signing up to the social networking site”.
Bishop Anthony Fisher OP, the Co-ordinator for World Youth Day 2008 said that the event would be: "the most innovative World Youth Day to date…. We wanted to make WYD08 a unique experience by using new ways to connect with today's tech-savvy youth".
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
CCN t. 020 7901 4802 e. ccn@cbcew.org.uk w.
Notes to Editors
World Youth Day – 15/20 July - sets the scene for the first visit of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, to Australia. Not only is it the largest youth event in the world, it will also be the largest event that Australia has ever hosted. It will attract over 200,000 visitors – more than the 2000 Olympics. Over 2,000 young pilgrims are flying to Australia from the UK.
Download PDF version of this page