3 Million Youth Filled Copacabana

Go and Make Disciples of All Nations! (Matthew 28:19)
More than three (3) million young faithful pilgrims, from the four corners of the world, filled the area of Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro Brazil for the main events of World Youth Day (WYD).

From the Papal Welcome, Way of the Cross, and Vigil with the Pope, and Closing Mass were all held in Copacabana due to accessibility for the pilgrims. Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro, Most Rev. OraniJoãoTempesta, D.D. extended his gratitude to all the organizers, volunteers, pilgrims who participatedand also to the government of Brazil for their support.

At the Closing Mass, His Holiness Pope Francis shared in his homily “Let the seed of God enter in your lives, we are His disciples…we are the Field of Faith… Let us not be a façade Christian but an Authentic Christian. My DearYoung People, you are the protagonist of change, do not be afraid… live the sacraments…go forth and serve…”

Before the final blessing, Pope Francis announced that the next World Youth Day 2016 will be in Krakow, Poland, the birthplace of the founder of WYD, Blessed John Paul II.

The World Youth Day is not just a mere event… it is God´s Project. It is agathering of hearts. Fraternity in Diversity is possible… this is the heart of WYD.

Marjorie Joy D. Olea/Contributor