AUSTRALIAN cricketer Matthew Hayden is encouraging young Catholics to get on board for World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany in August.
Hayden is the national ambassador for the Australian World Youth Day team.
He is keen to see all Australians involved in some way with the event, either as a pilgrim or by supporting them.
Since the first World Youth Day was held in Rome in 1984, millions of young people have attended World Youth Day events in Argentina, Spain, Poland, the United States, the Philippines, France and Canada, and the event has become the single largest gathering of young people from around the world.
In a letter posted on the official Australian World Youth Day Web site, Hayden described World Youth Day as a life-changing experience for millions of young people.
He said World Youth Day was not just a religious event, but an opportunity for young people to grow and be challenged on every level, morally, spiritually and culturally.
‘It is a time of international dialogue, calling all young people in peace and solidarity to make their own contribution to the world and become a generation of change,’ Hayden said.
‘It has enabled countless young people, over 20 years, to discover and excel in their chosen fields.’
Hayden has encouraged young people in Australia aged 16-35 to think seriously about travelling to World Youth Day and for others to support them on their endeavour.
‘You’ll have a great time and you certainly won’t regret it,’ he said.
‘For everyone else, I encourage you to make a difference for the youth of Australia by your support and generous gift towards the enriching phenomenon that is World Youth Day.’
It is still not too late to book for World Youth Day 2005, but hurry. For further information visit www.worldyouthday.com.au
