Blessed John Paul II began the celebrations of World Youth Days in 1985.
There are local celebrations of World Youth Day each year and large international gatherings with the Pope every few years.
Over the years, as many as 15 million young people have attended one of the international gatherings.
These World Youth Day gatherings include catechesis provided by bishops from around the world, a variety of cultural celebrations, the Way of the Cross, a night-time prayer vigil and an open-air celebration of Mass by the Pope.
There are also a range of informal events and opportunities to meet other pilgrims throughout the host city.
WYDRio2013 will take place between 23 July and 28 July in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
This will be the second World Youth Day to be held in South America.
The theme will be “GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL PEOPLES”.
More information can be found at http://www.rio2013.com (external link)
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