The pilgrim Cross and icon of Mary, symbols of the World Youth Days (WYD), will be sent to a delegation of Mexico on August 20, 2017, to go throughout Central America before returning to Panama for the 34th WYD scheduled from January 22-27, 2019.
The Panamanian Episcopal Conference made the announcement in a statement reported by L’Osservatore Romano on July 11, 2017. The Bishops stressed that the two symbols are a “factor of blessing and animation” for the faithful preparing for the WYD. The pilgrimage of the two symbols will go through Central America and the Caribbean.
The Bishops exhorted the parishes to prepare a catechesis to accompany young people towards the WYD. “Let us open our spirits, our hearts and doors of our homes, to receive the young pilgrims in 2019,” they encouraged. The organizers are foreseeing the arrival of some 500,000 visitors to Panama from around the world, some 4,000 journalists and a large number of governmental representatives and Heads of State.
Made public recently were the official hymn and logo of the event, on the theme: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
