Filipino Catholics prepare for the fifth Asian Youth Day

(Sept.02,2009): - "Young people of Asia, come together, share the Word of God and life in the Eucharist." This is the slogan of the 5th Asian Youth Day – AYD, to be held in the Philippines from November 23 to 27. About 2,500 young people from 22 countries in Asia have been invited to participate in the event. Preparations have already started in the Diocese of Imus, near Manila, and in major dioceses across the country, including the island of Mindanao, host to some of the events.
First held in 1999 in Thailand, AYD takes place every three years over three days of meetings and spiritual and cultural reflection. The last meeting was in 2006 in Hong Kong This year the event is being organised by the largest Catholic country in Asia, and promises to be a great opportunity for many young people, particularly those living in countries where there is no religious freedom. Msgr. Rolando Tirona, director of youth ministry for the Filipino bishops' conference, said the meeting is not just a simple celebration. It is "a challenge to young people to become true protagonists for social change."