By Charles Igwe
In a video message for World Youth Day, Pope Francis addresses questions from young people, emphasizing the importance of their presence and contribution to the Church. He highlights the theme of World Youth Day, “Mary arose and went with haste,” explaining that it calls for a joyful witness to the Gospel.
The Pope responds to queries from young people in the Philippines, Brazil, and the Ivory Coast. He explains that the Church needs young people to stay vibrant and relevant, urging them to follow Mary’s example of selfless service.
Pope Francis shares his dream for the event, hoping it becomes a seed for a better world filled with love and joy. He underlines the significance of young people meeting the living Christ during the gathering.
Bishop Américo Aguiar, President of the Lisbon 2023 WYD Foundation, expresses his expectations for the event, aiming for a profound impact on the lives of young people, as they encounter the Pope and the message of Christ.
Father João Chagas from the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life emphasizes the importance of intergenerational dialogue and hopes that WYD 2023 will be an opportunity for global youth to reconnect after the isolation caused by the pandemic.
The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network will play a significant role in WYD, providing prayers and meditations through the Click To Pray app. Young people from the Eucharistic Youth Movement (EYM) will also actively participate in the event.
Pope Francis encourages young people to take flight in their dreams while valuing the wisdom of the elderly and respecting their roots. He believes in the power of prayer and unity to create a meaningful and peaceful future.
