World Youth Day (WYD), Panama 2019 was an opportunity for the Archdiocese’ 16 Pilgrims to experience the universal church with thousands of faith filled youth from 22 -27 January through a global encounter with Pope Francis.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse, Father Namora, Father Adrian, Catholic Education leaders, teachers and youth ministers from the Archdiocese embarked on their journey of faith on Friday, 18 January, making their way to Mexico.

Catholic Education Religious Education and Faith Formation officers Bernadette Scott and Lisa Mammoliti described the experience as profound, wonderful and fulfilling.

“This entire experience has clearly shown that God’s grace is ever present in our lives. Being with a group of young people who are faith filled, passionate and excited about sharing their relationship with Christ with all they meet has been an honour,” said Lisa.

“We were blessed with grace filled moments throughout the entire pilgrimage.”

St Vincent’s Aranda Religious Education Coordinator Luke Maher said that it was a highlight celebrating the vigil so close to Pope Francis and lying in a field praying the rosary with 750,000 young people from around the world.

World Youth Day provided a unique opportunity for the Pilgrims to talk with young people from around the world who are passionate in sharing a personal and powerful relationship with Jesus.