Speaking of something new for the celebration of World Youth Day, have you heard the latest from down under. There is more than a little excitement brewing in the Archdiocese of Sydney, and 'across the pond' in New Zealand.
The other day, I received an email from a friend who lives in Sydney. 'I noticed when we drove past St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney the other day there is a big sign there with 129 days until (the 23rd) WYD...' and the city seems to be all abuz about young people, faith and the wonderful things that happen when human hearts are moulded by the values of love, joy and forgiveness.
Take for example the initiative of the Archbishop of Sydney. His Grace personally participates in monthly meetings with youth ... held in pubs. He calls these gatherings Theology on Tap. They are frank conversations, challenging youth today to explore the issues of the day in the light of faith.
“Not everyone is called to be a politician, thanks be to God!” Cardinal Pell said recently amid knowing laughter from the youth. “But I would like to encourage you to each seriously think about participating in politics as we desperately need more good men, and especially women, in there.”
Three and a half hours by plane to the east of Australia lies the country of New Zealand. The kiwis (as New Zealanders refer to themselves) will participate in hosting Days in the Diocese in anticipation of the World Youth Day events scheduled to take place in Sydney. This is the first time in history that two countries are cooperating in hosting jointly the activities for a WYD encounter. Preparations for the local youth include a mini pilgrimage on the South Island of New Zealand and even web blogs to encourage faith sharing among the youth of that country.
Each time that World Youth Day takes place on an international level, there are many different things to prepare. Cardinals, bishops, priests and deacons who attend all receive themed vestments which are used for the celebration of Mass during the week. So far, 700 chasubles have been produced and more than 3,000 stoles are in production. They are an earthy red in colour, reflecting Australia's unique landscape, and bear indigenous images and the Southern Cross as reminders of the land down under.
Previous international gatherings of World Youth Days have taken place in Rome, Italy (1986); Buenos Aires, Argentina (1987); Santiago de Compostela, Spain (1989); Czestochowa, Poland (1991); Denver, USA (1993); Manila, Philippines (1995); Paris, France (1997); Rome, Italy (2000); Toronto, Canada (2002); and Cologne, Germany (2005).
The 23rd World Youth Day, an international gathering of youth who celebrate faith will take place in Sydney, Australia from July 15 to 20, 2008 .... 123 days to go!
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