The Pope will send his first SMS today to thousands of World Youth Day pilgrims who have signed up to receive divine direction via technology.

As part of the Catholic festival, Telstra has erected eight temporary base stations to allow young pilgrims to send text messages to family and friends.

Four giant digital "prayer wall" screens have also been erected at the Sydney Opera House, the Domain, Darling Harbour and Randwick Racecourse.

Pilgrims who sign up will also be able to send a message to the giant prayer walls.

The Pope SMS will have Pope Benedict XVI send a daily massage of inspiration to subscribers, Telstra said.

Today's message, due to go out around 10am (AEST), will be the following: "Young friend, God and his people expect much from u because u have within you the Fathers supreme gift: the Spirit of Jesus - BXVI."

Telstra mobile customers can subscribe to the free service by texting the word "Pope" to 0400 405 111 to receive the daily messages.

AAP