World Youth Day, which will run from July 23-28, will be using Matthew 28:9 for its theme “Go and make disciples of all nations.” Drawing on this year’s theme and in the readings of the day, Auxiliary Bishop Rutilio del Riego reminded the pilgrims of their role as missionaries.
“If we are going to talk about Jesus then we need to know Jesus,” Bishop del Riego said. “If we are going to invite other young people to follow him, we need to be faithful followers of Jesus, ourselves. The message of this year’s World Youth Day is the focusing of this call on the youth of the Americas and the world.”
In preparation for their departure Bishop del Riego invited the youth to research the saints and blessed people who have been chosen as patrons and intercessors of the pilgrimage.
“When you read about their lives, you will see how they were great disciples of Jesus and consequently, great witnesses of faith,” Bishop del Riego said. “We ask for their intercession as you prepare for this journey of faith.”
Bishop Gerald Barnes and Bishop del Riego challenged the pilgrims to be open to encountering the Lord while away on pilgrimage.
“Be very attentive to the Lord Jesus who speaks to you and through the other pilgrims,” Bishop Barnes said.
At the close of the Mass, pilgrims from previous World Youth Days shared their experiences and expressed their hopes for those participating this year.
“I hope that for all of you going to Brazil, that you have some fantastic, eye-opening experiences. Learn some things about your faith and learn some things about yourself as well,” said Andrew Doyle, a parishioner from Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in San Bernardino.