Catholic youth gather in Spain

By Vincent Haber, 4 April 2011

More than 150 young Catholics from Perth will travel to Spain this August to attend World Youth Day, to celebrate their faith and go on a pilgrimage.

Young people from Perth Archdiocese ages 18 to 35, from parishes and Catholic schools will join two million other young people from around the world on a celebration, and journey of faith in Madrid, Spain from August 16 to 21 later this year.

Anita Parker, Director of Catholic Youth Ministry and WYD Pilgrim Coordinator from the Archdiocese of Perth, said the young people are excited to go because of their experience at the last WYD in Sydney three years ago.

 “WYD Sydney had such a huge impact in the faith of the young people of Perth.

“Young people are also going because they are searching for God, to renew their faith, and also find their perfect mate,” said Miss Parker.

A majority of the young people are currently still raising some funds to cover the cost of their trip.

“Fundraising activities such as Trivia Nights, cake stalls, and fundraising dinners are just a few things that the youth of Perth are doing to raise the money.

“Many gave things up and sacrificed buying clothes just to save money,” said Miss Parker.

Parish Youth Leader, Jeremy Baltazar of St. Joachim’s Parish in Victoria Park, said he was overwhelmed by the excitement, and was looking forward to going to WYD, to deepen his faith and have a cultural experience during the event.

“I am excited to meet other young people who share the same faith as me.

“But most especially, I am looking forward to being with two million young people from around the world to learn from them,” said Mr Baltazar.

 “I’m hoping that the youth of Perth will gain the experience and the strength to continuing serving the Catholic Church.

“I also just want to show the world that the youth of Australia are fresh, faithful and have a lot to offer to the world,” he added.

With the support of Perth’s bishops and priests, CYM has been conducting monthly youth gatherings to help prepare the youth of Perth, both spiritually and practically for their trip to Spain.

“We want the young people to go to WYD with the attitude they are pilgrims and not tourists,” said Miss Parker.