Rejoice in the Lord then go make Disciples of all Nations, says Pope

Holy Father announces themes for the next two WYDs

Pope Benedict XVI courtesy CNS

Next year young Catholics will "Rejoice in the Lord." In 2013 they will "Go and Make Disciples of all Nations." That was what Pope Benedict XVI revealed as the themes for the next two World Youth Days.

The 2012 version will be held within a Catholic Diocese. The Pope will be joined by international pilgrims in 2013 as WYD will be celebrated in Rio de Janeiro.

The Pope revealed the themes in front of an audience of 2000 people gathered in the papal courtyard villa of at Castel Gandalfo Aug 24. Benedict talked with the audience for 15 minutes.

The Holy Father also shared his experience in Madrid for the recent WYD event. He described his trip as "extraordinary days" and was moved by the amount young people who will explore their potential call to religious life because of the August 16-21 gathering.

"I thank God for this precious gift, which gives hope for the future of the church," he said.