Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese,
12 Apr 2013
12 Apr 2013
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
With only 100 days to go till WYD13 in Rio de Janerio, close to 550 pilgrims from the Archdiocese of Sydney have confirmed their registration and are preparing to meet with an estimated 3 million other Catholics in July this year.
"It's a great effort from the Archdiocese of Sydney. We are very pleased with the number of young people from our CEO Catholic schools and parishes across Sydney who committed to attend WYD" said Jake Ryan, Projects and Events Officer for the Archdiocese.
Over the coming months, pilgrims will take part in formation meetings to prepare themselves for the experience in South America. This WYD is a unique opportunity as pilgrims will have the opportunity to take part in various mission projects before they meet in Rio de Janerio. "It's a great chance for young people to get involved in the community and experience the very real faith of the South American culture" Jake said.
Iguacu Falls
Apart from the mission aspect of the pilgrimages, young people will also have the opportunity to visit some of the sites of South America. Bishop Peter Comensoli will be leading a group of 70 young people and 300 schools students to the heights of Macchu Picchu. Located 2,430 metres above sea level, this 15th century Inca site is a very popular destination and it was a strong 'selling point' for many.
His Eminence, George Cardinal Pell will be leading close to 65 young people on a 19 day to visit the pilgrimage sites of Lima, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Church and Convent of Saint Francis, the Nazarene Church (containing the Lord of the Miracles painting), the Sanctuary of Saint Rose of Lima and the Dominican Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. This pilgrimage will also be taking part in mission work with the CLM community in Lima and will undertake 3-4 days of mission work amongst the local poorer communities.
The WYD week in Rio de Janerio is planned to be something that all pilgrims will never forget. An estimated 3 million people are predicted to take part from 23-28 July. The WYD week will give people a great opportunity to experience faith and culture and experience a truly universal faith. "I hope to gaze upon the Christ the Redeemer statue and contemplate how I can stand up and live for others, while awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis with pilgrims from all over the world" said Chris Maher, pilgrimage coordinator for the Archdiocese.
Lima, Peru
After the WYD week in Rio de Janeiro, all pilgrims will have the opportunity to meet together in Iguacu Falls and take part in a post retreat. This will give them the opportunity to debrief what they have encountered over the pilgrimage and during the WYD week and offer a chance to reflect on how they can continue to live it out in their local school, parish or community.
Iguassu Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and it consists of 275 waterfalls over 2.7 kilometres. A breathtaking sight, it was also the backdrop to the 1986 film "The Mission" about a Jesuit missionary priest.
For more information about WYD13 and its upcoming events please visitwww.syd2rio.com
SHARED FROM ARCHDIOCESE OF SYDNEY
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