On the way to WYD, Madrid 2011

“Planted and built up in Jesus Christ, firm in the faith”, is the theme for WYD 2011 in Madrid, Spain and there are now only 69 days to go. The WYD Cross and Icon, currently in Cordoba, are winding their way closer to the capital having travelled, literally, half way around the world to get there from Sydney Australia, where the last international gathering was held in 2008.

In Croatia this weekend, Pope Benedict XVI began the ultimate countdown to WYD Madrid 2011, reminding young Croatians during a prayer vigil in the main square of the capital, Zagreb: “if you are rooted in Christ, you will fully become the person you are meant to be.” The Pope also reminded young people that “walking by his side calls for commitment and personal sacrifice, but it is worth the effort.”

A total number of 378.239 people have registered to take part in the week-long event from August 16-21. Italians so far are the strongest contingent with 65,196 pilgrims registered followed by host country Spain, France and an estimated 28 thousand from the United States and Canada. Latin America is also well represented with large groups from Brazil, Mexico and Venezuela registered.

But you only have to browse the Madrid WYD website to realise that many young people are planning to make their own way to Madrid this summer, rather than registering with a parish or specific group. The website, www.madrid11.com, is multi-lingual and highly interactive with staff speedily answering comments and queries on issues from accommodation to visa requirements to resource packs for preparation. Through this strong on-line presence, as well as through social media, WYD staff are also promoting various charitable initiatives to help young people from less advantaged countries experience WYD.

Father Eric Jacquinet, is in charge of the youth section at the Pontifical Council for the Laity, the official sponsor of World Youth Day. He spoke to Emer McCarthy about the WYD phenomenon and the pilgrimage all young people – whether in groups or on their own – are invited to make on their way. Listen: