ROME, JULY 30, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Pope Benedict XVI spoke of the upcoming 28th World Youth Day (WYD) which will take place in a year’s time in Rio de Janeiro. The pontiff made his remarks following the recitation of the Angelus on Sunday.
WYD in Rio de Janeiro, said the Pope, which will take place in 2013, will be a “precious occasion for many young people to experience the joy and beauty of belonging to the Church and to live the faith.”
The Holy Father also spoke to those who are working to bring about this international event. “I would like to encourage and thank the organizers, especially the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro, committed consciously to preparing the welcome of the youth from around the world who will take part in this important ecclesial encounter.
The tradition of WYD began in 1984 in Rome under the pontificate of Blessed John Paul II. It takes place every year on Palm Sunday in the Vatican, except every two or three years when it is held in another country. This will be the second time that a South American country has hosted, the first having been in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1987.
