Article by Ely Medina, Youth & Young Adult Ministry Coordinator
Good day to all. May the Lord be with you. “Todos, todos, todos! En la Iglesia hay Lugar para Todos!” Pope Francis addresses the 1.5 Million young souls at the 2023 World Youth Day (WYD) in Lisbon, Portugal.
The journey entailed submerging oneself in a different culture, meeting new friends and families, long hours of walking and unrest, and for many pilgrims from the Diocese of Fresno, the opportunity to see Pope Francis within a couple of feet of proximity; his presence filling hearts with happiness and bringing tears of joy. The Holy Father encouraged everyone “not to let their ‘Great Dreams’ of changing the world be ‘stopped by fear.’”1 For the young people in the Diocese of Fresno, this message is for you.
1. A Different Culture
Portugal, with open arms, welcomed all pilgrims worldwide to worship as one. For many, culture shock was real. Pilgrims enjoyed learning the language, tasting the food, and using Euros as currency. Without a doubt, Portugal is beautiful. The perfect country for many youth’s first WYD.
2. Days in the Diocese / World Youth Day
Days in the Diocese (DID), usually the first week before the Main WYD events, allowed groups from all around the world to experience Portugal in a very intimate manner. Registered groups were divided into the different Dioceses of Portugal and were assigned “Host Families.” Host Families are native families who, through God’s love and grace, opened the doors to their home to pilgrims. Pilgrims had the opportunity to experience a week in the life of a Portuguese family.
- 2 Sports Competitions
- 38 Conferences
- 6 Dance Groups
- 290 Concerts
- 15 Films
- 10 Theater Performances
- 15 Expositions
- 55 Religious Events
4. ! WYD-2027 Seoul, South Korea !In Christ,
Ely Medina
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