Since 1986, World Youth Day (WYD) has brought together young people (ages 18-35) from all over the world with the Pope every two or three years at an international gathering place chosen by the Pope. Millions of young people attend each WYD. It is a celebration of young people, an opportunity for evangelization, an expression of the universal Church, and a pilgrimage. No matter how close or far a young person feels from the Catholic faith, WYD is open to everyone.

          Click here to access all World Youth Day homilies addressed to young people of the world.

At the Diocesan (local) level, WYD is celebrated annually on the Feast of Christ the King with an event called "World Youth Day in Particular Parishes," for young people ages 12-35. Whether you have been an international WYD pilgrim, or hope to be, or not, all young people are encouraged to participate in local celebrations of faith by young people, for young people.

Both WYD initiatives - local and international - aim to provide participants with a universal Church experience, fostering a personal encounter with Jesus, promoting peace, unity and fraternity around the world.

World Youth Day, Lisbon (2023)

Pope Francis has chosen the theme "Mary arose and went with haste" (Lk 1.39), for the XXVII World Youth Day (WYD) that will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, from August 1-6, 2023. This biblical theme highlights Mary a both a woman of charity and a missionary woman. Pope Francis' invitation to young people challenges them to be courageous missionaries, like Mary. "There are no borders, no limits: Jesus sends us everywhere. The Gospel is for everyone, not just for some" (Christus Vivit, no. 177). 

The Diocese of London will not be organizing a delegation to travel to Lisbon for the celebration of World Youth Day (WYD) from August 1-6, 2023. 

If you are between the ages of 18-35 years old and are interested in participating in the international event in Lisbon, there may be opportunity to register as an individual with Corporate Travel Service. More information about the WYD Pilgrimage as organized by CTS is available at this link:

•           World Youth Day Lisbon, Portugal - Pilgrimage by CTS 

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