Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Sydney (Agenzia Fides) - The Anglican Archbishop of Sydney Archbishop Peter Jensen sees the World Youth Day 2008 event as "a great event to promote ecumenism and a wonderful opportunity lead young our people to Christ". The Archbishop said the 23rd edition of WYD organised by the Catholic Church in Sydney in July next year will be similar to the Olympic Games and will involve all Australians.
Addressing an Anglican Synod the Archbishop underlined the urgency of announcing Christ to young people. “WYD will foster greater community awareness of Jesus and increase the general sense of interest in Him and it represents a challenge for all of us in the Christian community to build bridges believing in power of the Word of God to create unity”.
WYD organisers are not neglecting the event's great potential for ecumenism and interreligious dialogue due to its message of universal brotherhood: in fact preparation for WYD has included presentations and invitations to other Christians in Australia, a meeting with leading members of Australia's Muslim community and another meeting will be held with representatives of the Jewish community.
Already 200,000 young people from different countries have registered for Sydney's WYD. And with the help of government offices the organisers are busy arranging accommodation and places for gatherings, catechesis, the Youth Festival etc. For live television coverage of the event the organising committee has signed agreements with SBS and Sky. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 20/09/2007 righe 28 parole 289)
