Testimonies
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Speaking about the texts that Pope Benedict XVI is sending to WYD08 pilgrims, Ross Kempsell, World Youth Day Communications Officer for the Diocese of Westminster, said: “This event only happens every three years – I’m delighted to be taking part, not only in the real, but also in the virtual World Youth Day world. I definitely won’t be deleting the Holy Father’s texts – I’ll be forwarding them onto my friends and family back home. I’ll also be sending up my prayer requests on the digital prayer wall and signing up to the social networking site”.
‘I went to the World Youth Day in Rome, and it was quite awe inspiring. I’ve never seen so many Catholics, and young Catholics at that. There was an incredible sense of belonging, and an atmosphere of freedom in, and celebration of, our Catholic faith. It felt like a real privilege to be there with my brothers and sisters from so many different countries, and with Il Papa himself, who had a really evident love for us. The experience definitely moved me to a deeper love for the Church. I also came away with the sense of being valued and having a purpose, both within the Catholic community and beyond’. Emily, London
'A truly moving experience that I would recommend to any young Christian wishing to deepen their faith and really feel the presence of the Lord. It is wonderful to see the Holy Father really connecting with young people from every walk of life.' Hermione, Wales
‘In Cologne, I witnessed the faith of so many young people who are passionately in love with Jesus. The event reminded me that I’m not the only one out there who thinks that the Gospel is the most challenging and amazing thing to try to live out. Although the food was pretty awful and our group didn’t get much sleep, being part of such an incredible international gathering has since sustained me during difficult days back here in the UK. If you’re not sure about going, just sign up! You’ll have fun, make loads of new friends and encounter the real person of Jesus Christ like never before’. Clare, Bedford
‘I had a very powerful and prayerful time at World Youth Day in Cologne. Travelling on pilgrimage with the Diocese of Westminster, we developed a strong sense of community, and we all grew in our spiritual lives together through our shared experiences. Being able to attend Mass, celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI, along with one million other young Catholics was truly inspiring. It has strengthened my faith, and deepened my prayer-life. I am very much looking forward to travelling to the next World Youth Day in Sydney this summer, and would encourage all young people to come and take part.’ Daniel, London
‘I would definitely recommend another young person to go to WYD. The experience I had in Cologne was fantastic, the atmosphere was amazing with hundreds of thousands of other young people from all over the world. The moments of prayer were very beautiful and it was great to hear the Pope in person and how he was educating us to open ourselves up to Jesus’. Noel, London
'The last WYD in Cologne was a memorable great celebration with thousands of people from around the world. I loved the vibrant buzz and the colourful events throughout the World Youth Days and the encounter with the host country, through spending a few days with Catholics in Hamburg before. There were so many options available to choose from: talks, festivals, music, art, prayers, fun and entertainment events that I've never seen before in one place! I don't remember much from the catechesis and seminars, but the feeling of the young and live church will always remain with me. If I ever feel alone and am struggling in my faith, those moments can remind me that I will never be alone - there are thousands and millions walking the same road on this exciting journey towards God!' Anne Marie, London
‘What was inspiring was the number of people. Those that had a love for something we cannot see. Sometimes it can feel like a lonely world loving Jesus and knowing His love. Especially when one goes to talk about it in daily conversation. And we, unfortunately, acclimatise to what is around us and try to 'blend'. And the inspiring thing about World Youth Day was the community and liberation that came from it. Suddenly I wasn't so alone anymore - I now had 999,999 other friends that I had yet to get to know! What a shocking experience to find out that what you believe and know is Truth isn't such a 'weird' thing, after all.’ Jeanine, London
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