Samba with the Pope

World Youth Day in Rio: 'Go and make disciples of all nations'

BCC file photo.

Thousands of Canadian youth will be among those gathering for Pope Francis's first World Youth Day in his papacy. Pilgrims will also be given a chance to visit Brazil's dioceses prior to the highly anticipated celebration.

Also part of Canada's delegation are eight bishops, including Archbishop Richard Smith (President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) and Archbishop of Edmonton), and Father Thomas Rosica, CSB, (CEO of Salt & Light Television and CCCB's World Youth Day 2013 delegation coordinator).


The Vivo Rio Welcome Centre (performing arts facility in the eastern area of Flamengo) will be the epicentre of WYD's programming, and there will be several activities around the city.  The centre will also be the venue for the Canadian delegation's national meeting. In addition to engaging with volunteers and youth, Pope Francis will preside at various celebrations such as the welcoming ceremony, celebrate Mass, visit hospitals and young prisoners, and meet with Brazil's leaders.

Join millions of young pilgrims from different continents for this year's World Youth Day in Rio July 23-28.

Young pilgrims from all over the world are expected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, July 23-28, 2013, to participate in the 28th World Youth Day (WYD). This will be the first WYD in the papacy of Pope Francis who will travel to Brazil, July 22-29, on his first apostolic voyage outside Italy since his election. 

Over a thousand Canadian young pilgrims are planning to attend this international gathering. Its theme is "Go and Make Disciples of All Nations". Following the example of the 2011 WYD in Madrid, the Canadian pilgrims will again gather for a national celebration. This will be on July 25 at the Vivo Rio Welcome Centre. From July 16 to 20, Canadian youth pilgrims will have the opportunity to visit the dioceses of Brazil as part of a missionary week. 

For full article, visit the CCCB website.
To live-stream the event, visit the Salt and Light website for their special feature.