EUROPE/ITALY - Pentecost Vigil in the Cathedral of Rome on the theme of World Youth Day, with Confirmations of 185 university students and presentation of the delegation that will travel to Sydney

Rome (Agencia Fides) - On Saturday, May 10 at 7:30pm in the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, the Cathedral of Rome, there will be a Pentecost Vigil with the theme of World Youth Day (WYD): “You will receive the power of the Holy Spirit,” presided by Cardinal Camillo Ruini. During the Vigil, the Cardinal will administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to 185 university students.
In response to Benedict XVI’s Message for WYD of Sydney, 300 university students of Rome decided to prepare for this Sacrament and began formation courses. After the announcement that was made during a pilgrimage to Assisi, they began their path of preparation on December 13 and following the rite of presentation of the Sacred Scriptures, they will conclude their preparations in the Pentecost Vigil. The other youth who have been preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, will celebrate the event in their parishes and dioceses of origin.
The Cardinal will concelebrate the Mass with 45 priests, university chaplains and campus ministry workers who serve in parishes, schools, associations, and ecclesial movements. The event will also feature a performance from the Inter-university Choir, directed by Massimo Palombella. At the close of the celebration, there will be a presentation of the delegation of university students from Rome who will travel to Sydney, building a bridge towards the next World Youth Day. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 8/5/2008; righe 18, parole 223)