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Pope speaks on the power of the Holy Spirit at World Youth Day
Referring to the theme of this year’s event – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witness,” Pope Benedict said, “the power of the Spirit never ceases to fill the Church with life.” The pope also encouraged the young people to open their hearts to the power of the Holy Spirit, saying, “Do not be afraid to say ‘Yes’ to Jesus, to find joy in doing His will, giving yourself completely to the pursuit of holiness, and using all your talent in the service of others.” Pope John Paul II began World Youth Day in 1984. It is held internationally every two to three years. The next WYD will be held in Madrid, Spain in 2011. Eighteen people from the Diocese of Buffalo attended the Sydney event. |
Over a quarter-million pilgrims joined together in Sydney, Australia, from July 15-21, to take part in World Youth Day, the largest Catholic youth festival ever held. Teenagers and young adults from across the globe took part in catechesis, witness talks, music and fellowship. The highlight came when Pope Benedict XVI took to the main stage to celebrate the Saturday Vigil Mass and closing Sunday Mass.