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Grade 6, Chapter 1
World Youth Day
How would you like to be part of a group of hundreds
of thousands of young Catholics from all over the world who gather to
pray, sing, share, and just have some good fun? Every other year since
1985, teens and college-age students have had an opportunity for this
joyful adventure to World Youth Day.
The
idea for World Youth Day came from Pope John Paul II. The United Nations
set aside 1985 as a special year for the world's young people. So the
pope invited all the young people of the world to come together in Rome.
The young people responded so enthusiastically that the Vatican decided
to make the gathering a continuing event.
Since then, an international World Youth Day has been held every other
year. Worldwide gatherings so far have been held on four continents. At
every gathering, a special cross, presented by Pope John Paul as a sign
of God's love for young people, has led the way. The cross has also traveled
to other youth conferences throughout the world.
Pope John Paul himself has spoken at each worldwide assembly. At the World
Youth Day held again in Rome, Italy in August 2000, more than 700,000
young people heard his invitation to "come and see." He was urging them
to be disciples just as Jesus had urged his first disciples!
The celebration in Rome lasted for a whole week. Everyone had a chance
to attend open-air Masses, the Way of the Cross, a candlelight vigil,
and other prayer services. Over 300 spiritual and cultural events were
held. Many of the concerts and dramas were staged by various youth groups
visiting the city. Places were also set aside for quiet personal reflection.
At these worldwide events, young people have opportunities to talk with
other young people from many other nations. They learn how much all Christians
hold in common. They learn that we share the same faith in Jesus and the
Church, 
and
that we all have the same hopes and concerns for the future.
World Youth Day gives young Catholics an opportunity to become pilgrims.
Making a pilgrimage—a journey to a sacred place—is one of
the oldest traditions in the Church. This youth-oriented pilgrimage every
other year reminds all young people that our lives are a pilgrimage to
God.
Download and print the activity below and follow the instructions.
