In order to "encourage both a constructive presence and a positive perception of the media in society,” Benedict reiterated three steps laid out by his predecessor, John Paul II, which he said are necessary “for the service of the common good: formation, participation, and dialogue.”
"Formation”, he said, “in the responsible and critical use of the media helps people to use them intelligently and appropriately. ... Precisely because contemporary media shape popular culture, they themselves must overcome any temptation to manipulate, especially the young, and instead pursue the desire to form and serve.”
“In this way”, he said, “They protect rather than erode the fabric of a civil society worthy of the human person.
Secondly, the Pope said that "Participation in the mass media arises from their nature as a good destined for all people. As a public service, social communication requires a spirit of cooperation and co-responsibility with vigorous accountability of the use of public resources and the performance of roles of public trust, including recourse to regulatory standards and other measures or structures designed to effect this goal.”
Finally, Benedict called for the “promotion of dialogue through the exchange of learning, the expression of solidarity and the espousal of peace presents a great opportunity for the mass media which must be recognized and exercised.”
He said that through dialogue, the media “become influential and appreciated resources for building the civilization of love for which all peoples yearn.”
With these three steps, the Holy Father expressed his confidence that the industry could help “men, women and children, to become more aware of the dignity of the human person, more responsible, and more open to others especially the neediest and the weakest members of society."
In closing his Message, Pope Benedict called to mind the "encouraging words of St. Paul”, who said, “'Christ is our peace. In Him we are one.' Let us together break down the dividing walls of hostility and build up the communion of love according to the designs of the Creator made known through His Son!"
To view full text of Pope Benedict XVI's message:
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/document.php?n=103