This year, the youth all over the world gathered again to celebrate a Catholic tradition which is the World Youth Day. I’ve been a constant follower of WYD Celebration since I’ve attended the 20th WYD in Cologne. It’s been 8 years already but I can still remember and feel how I felt that time. It was the first WYD of Pope Benedict XVI that time and this year, the youth in Rio will witness the first WYD of Pope Francis. Although I’ve only seen the coverage via pictures and news in the succeeding celebration, I still feel the overwhelming love and joy that the youth is having at that very moment.
The 28th World Youth Day celebration is held at Rio De Janeiro, Brazil with the theme: “Go and make disciples of all nations!” (cf. Mt 28, 19). The logo represents has the colors of Brazilian flag as well as the famous symbol of Christ the Redeemer. They also included the Sugarloaf Mountain, the coastline and water. It was designed by a native of Rio named Gustavo Huguenin.
I again feel proud that I know a group of young people who will join and be inspired more by God’s love with that experience. My God-brother is joining the group from St Mary’s Church, part of the Diocese of Sydney, Australia. If you’ve read my previous post about the past WYDs: 2011 in Spain, my friend Zeny was there, 2008 in Sydney, my friend Allan and of course my God-family was one of the foster homes that time! I feel blessed that I know someone close to me who is joining the youth’s celebration.
I am in no doubt so envious of them but very excited for their experience. It’s been 2 WYDs already (Spain & Rio) that I don’t have work and am very free to be part of the celebration. However, money is always the problem. Hahaha!
Anyway, I know that these young people there would probably have a life long blessing and memory that once in their lives, they’ve been part of a something great, amazing and loving youth celebration of the world.
So this week, from July 23-28, 2013 I’m hooked watching the live webcast by XT3 in Copacobana Beach in Rio. I would probably join the youth of Sydney who will be having a pilgrimage later this week to be in one with them during their vigil and the Pope’s final mass. I’m also excited to know where the next WYD celebration be! Well, that’s the highlight of the final mass. 🙂
Join me as we witness another milestone of the youth of the world, the 28th World Youth Day! Viva Santo Papa! 🙂
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