World Youth Day - Archdiocese of San Antonio

The Archdiocese of San Antonio has organized a Pilgrimage to World Youth Day to be held in Madrid Spain in August 10 - 23, 2011. World Youth Day (WYD) is an amazing weeklong spiritual journey where pilgrims from all over the world unite to share their faith. The week includes prayer, song, concerts, sharing, liturgy, catechesis, and an unforgettable vigil and closing mass with the Holy Father.

In 1984 and again in 1985, Pope John Paul II invited young people from all over the world to participate at what was then called "International Youth Meeting on the occasion of International Youth Year.” These "International Youth Meetings” were held in Rome during the week leading up to Palm Sunday. On Palm Sunday 1985, Pope John Paul II addresses an Apostolic Letter to the youth of the world and his closing words reiterated the message of the Second Vatican Council which says that young people are "the hope of the Church." In 1985 on December 20th, Pope John Paul II announces the institution of World Youth Day . Some of us who were present to hear Pope John Paul II read the Apostolic Letter to the youth of the world in 1985 feel we were present at the very first World Youth Day even though the first "official” event was held on Palm Sunday 1986.

The Theme for WYD 2011 is "Rooted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith” (cf Col 2:7). A Pilgrimage is so much more than a vacation or a tour. It involves preparation, sacrifice, purposeful reflection, communal living and sharing, and a heart open to being formed by the Spirit of God, and its benefits continue long after the trip is over. It can be exciting and life changing.

Right now, the Archdiocese of San Antonio is planning our WYD 2011 pilgrimage. If you are planning to form a group at your parish or school to attend World Youth Day in Madrid , we would love to hear your ideas so that we can make our pilgrimage the best one possible for the whole Archdiocesan community. World Youth Day is designed for young people ages 18-35. Youth events preparing for World Youth Day will be celebrated throughout the Archdiocese leading up to August 2011 and all ages are invited to participate. We will keep you informed of our WYD plans. For more information or to share your thoughts please email wydsa_info@wydsa.net  You can also find us on Facebook ( San Antonio World Youth Day Pilgrims). The official World Youth Day 2011 website is http://www.madrid11.com/ .

We are extremely thankful to the organizers in Madrid and we are praying for them! Click here to view the appreciation expressed by a few of our pilgrims.