Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Wellington (Agenzia Fides) – Over 10,000 young Kiwis as New Zealanders call themselves, can't wait for WYD in Sydney. This is an unexpectedly high number seeing that only about 100 pilgrims managed to take part in previous editions. WYD in this region has given a boost of confidence and enthusiasm to New Zealand's Catholic youth who have taken part in various initiatives of mission to invite friends to take part in the event later this month.
Preparation and expectancy is high in the dioceses of Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.
New Zealand as a co-host and co-organiser is involved in many logistic aspects and many family are ready to welcome young pilgrims from all over the world.
Each New Zealand diocese has appointed a young delegate to be part of a WYD Ambassador Team which will be very active in that week representing New Zealand. The young people have worked hard to present a show of Kiwi dancing and music at the World Youth Festival in the afternoons during WYD.
“Excitement is high across the Pacific at the idea of hosting WYD for the first time”, said Mgr Antonhy Fisher, WYD general coordinator. The local Church see the event as a great opportunity for an experience of genuine sharing. The young people gather to listen to the Word of God in a language with which they are familiar, to reflect and pray.
WYD 2008, with the participation of representatives of the many different ethnic groups in the region will be truly Pacific.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 2/7/2008 righe 27 parole 279)
