Pope's message goes hi-tech in Australia

SYDNEY (AFP) — Pope Benedict XVI took a new hi-tech road to spreading his message Tuesday, sending a mobile phone text to pilgrims attending World Youth Day celebrations in Australia, organisers said.

"Young friend, God and his people expect much from u because u have within you the Fathers supreme gift: the Spirit of Jesus - BXVI," read the first of the daily texts.

Local telecom giant Telstra has erected eight extra base stations in Sydney to cater for hundreds of thousands of young Catholics from around the world, who need simply text the word Pope to a special number to receive the messages.

Four giant screens have also been set up at major festival venues around the city, including the iconic Sydney Opera House, and pilgrims who sign up will be able to send a message to the digital ...