The Pope declared on the 48th World Communications Day, that the internet was a gift from ‘God.’

According to the Catholic Herald, in his message, the Pope asked, how can one be “neighbourly” in our use of communications media and in the new environment created by digital technology? The answer is in the Good Samaritan. The Pope went on to say that “Those who communicate, in effect, become neighbours. The Good Samaritan not only draws nearer to the man he finds half dead on the side of the road; he takes responsibility for him.”

The Pope does warn against the internet, as well. According to the Times, the Pope said that the internet “can have the effect of isolating us from our neighbours, from those closest to us” and reminded us to not “overlook the fact that those who for whatever reason lack access to social media run the risk of being left behind.”

The Pope has been one to ‘get with the times.’ He has taken selfies with fan that have waited at the Vatican; he has a Twitter , which he uses, and left a New Year message for the Nuns in Spain, as well as gives generously to charities. On his twitter, the Pope leaves inspirational messages, and messages of wisdom. The Pope has demonstrated compassion for the poor, even more so than his processors.

This World Communications Day is the first one celebrated with Pope Francis at the Vatican.

Photo Courtesy of WikiMedia Commons