World Youth Day 2023 Lisbon: A Recap!

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.

3. No Sleep / Pope Francis
WYD required a lot of energy to power through the many activities (See List). Many averaged 3-4hrs of sleep per night. One of the “coolest" moments was camping under the stars on the last night, usually the one with the least amount of sleep. You found yourself alongside other young people from around the world in anticipation for The Holy Father’s last WYD Mass the following morning. An experience one will remember for life. 

- 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 !
Asia, here we come! “Esta Es, La Juventud del Papa!” It will be a big blessing to experience WYD alongside the young people of Asia. If you are interested in attending the next WYD please, contact your parish and my office. We will begin prepping now, it's never too soon. A big thank you for keeping all pilgrims in your prayers. May the Lord continue to bless our young people and with the Intercession of our Mother Mary, may our families stay united.
 

In Christ,
Ely Medina

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