Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Papeete (Agenzia Fides) - Dreaming of WYD. Young Tahitians, still edified and enthusiastic after welcoming and hosting the pilgrim youth Day Cross and Marian Icon, in May this year, are praying and working with all their creativity to make a dream come true: to take part for the first time in World Youth Day, next July 2008 in Sydney, Australia.
The would-be pilgrims of French Polynesia experienced the spiritual power of the two WYD symbols, the pilgrim Cross and the Icon of Our Lady which have been carried across the world from Germany the site of the previous World Youth Day on the way to Australia. For the first time, since Tahiti is not so far from Sydney, perhaps some young Tahitians will be able to take part in a World Youth Day and they are determined not to lose the opportunity.
As spiritual preparation for the great Church even continues at the diocesan level, the youngsters are making every effort to make enough money for the pilgrimage. Small jobs, markets, sales, all ways of making a little money which is then carefully saved. Naturally for some young Polynesians the journey will be paid by young Australians, Europeans and Americans whose registration fee includes a voluntary sum to help young people in poorer countries to participate
The Catholic Church in Tahiti gives priority to evangelisation of young people and caring for the poor. In the whole are of Oceania WYD will be an opportunity to make Jesus and His message of love, hope and peace known to many young people. “It is important to reach out to them and tell them about the graces Him brings”, says the local Church, inviting them to an event, to an encounter with God's love which will change their lives. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 11/9/2007 righe 25 parole 257)
