MORE than 1000 people from Australia and New Zealand are expected to attend the 15th World Youth Day, which is set to be the largest Jubilee celebration of the Holy Year in Rome. Before the August departure a series of formation talks will be offered to young people to ensure the World Youth Day experience is a pilgrimage rather than just a tour.
The program includes elements of prayer and reflection, talks based on the themes of Pope John Paul II’s World Youth Day address, small group discussions and information about what they can expect to encounter in the places being visited.
Many young people will head straight to Rome for the week of festivities from August 15-20. Evening youth rallies, catechesis (talks, discussions and input from bishops and cardinals from around the world), festivals, exhibitions as well as the chance to take in the Vatican and other cultural sites so special to the Church in Rome are all part of the experience.
While all young people will end up in Rome for World Youth Day, many dioceses are extending the pilgrimage to include significant and interesting places.
The Antioch movement, a long-time supporter of World Youth Days, will be sending many young people. The group will be accompanied by Fr Danny Austin and Christian Brother Damien Price of Brisbane. The option of extending the pilgrimage to include Taize is also being offered.
