We were thrilled to be able to send a group of young South African Vincentians to World Youth Day, which took place in Lisbon from 1 to 6 August 2023. Grateful thanks to the Daughters of Charity, which hosted our group. Daughters of Charity is a global organisation dedicated to helping the sick and poor. In Lisbon, they run a primary school and an old age home for destitute aged in the city.
Being able to interact with young people from all over the world is a very special experience, which had to be put on hold during the pandemic. Pope Francis described the event as ‘a gift of God’. He described the event as a channel through which God beckoned young hearts to seek out Jesus.
“World Youth Day is a source of joy, as it unveils the divine call to be part of God’s people and to share the joyful message of Christ’s Gospel,” he said.
The Holy Father also acknowledged the presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the event. He recalled his time praying to her in Fatima and underscored her responsiveness whenever believers seek her intercession. “Mary is everyone’s mother; she never makes us wait,” he said.
Pope Francis commended the immense faith and enthusiasm displayed by the young attendees, particularly those from Ukraine, who brought with them the weight of their nation’s struggles. He expressed gratitude to all involved in organizing the event.