In the heart of Lisbon, Portugal, the city will host World Youth Day 2024, a prominent event bringing together young Catholics from across the globe. With Pope Francis at the helm, the event promises to be a spiritual and cultural gathering, embracing the diversity of the Catholic Church.

World Youth Day serves as a beacon of hope, fostering unity among young people and inspiring them to embrace their faith with newfound vigor. As the countdown to 2024 begins, the excitement is palpable, and preparations are underway to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for the vast number of attendees expected.

With Lisbon’s vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty serving as the backdrop, World Youth Day 2024 promises to be a transformative event, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of the participants and the city itself.

World Youth Day 2024

Gathering of young Catholics worldwide.

• Date: August 1-6, 2024
• Location: Lisbon, Portugal
• Theme: “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39)
• Pope: Pope Francis
• Expected attendees: Over 1 million
• Purpose: To celebrate the Catholic faith and promote unity among young people
• Activities: Catechesis, workshops, concerts, prayer, and Mass
• Impact: Spiritual and cultural gathering, fostering hope and inspiration
• Legacy: Long-lasting impact on participants and host city
• Symbol: Cross of the World Youth Day

World Youth Day 2024 promises to be a life-changing experience, bringing together young people from all corners of the globe to celebrate their faith and embrace their shared identity in Christ.

Date: August 1-6, 2024

World Youth Day 2024 will take place from August 1 to 6, 2024, in Lisbon, Portugal. These dates hold significance for the Catholic Church and the event itself.

• Opening Mass:

  The event will commence with an opening Mass on August 1, presided over by Pope Francis. This Mass sets the tone for the entire gathering and marks the official start of World Youth Day.

• Catechesis and Workshops:

  From August 2 to 5, participants will engage in catechesis sessions and workshops. These sessions will explore the theme of the event and provide opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection.

• Cultural Festival:

  Alongside the religious activities, a vibrant cultural festival will showcase the diverse traditions and talents of the participating nations. This festival fosters unity and appreciation for the richness of Catholic culture.

• Closing Mass and Papal Farewell:

  The grand finale of World Youth Day 2024 will be the closing Mass on August 6, presided over by Pope Francis. During this Mass, the Holy Father will deliver a powerful message to the young people and impart his blessing upon them. Following the Mass, there will be a farewell ceremony, where Pope Francis bids farewell to the participants and officially concludes the event.

The dates of World Youth Day 2024 are carefully chosen to align with the Catholic liturgical calendar and to provide ample time for participants to travel, participate in the various activities, and experience the spiritual and cultural richness of the event.

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the captivating capital of Portugal, has been chosen as the host city for World Youth Day 2024. This vibrant and welcoming city offers a stunning backdrop for the event, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

Lisbon is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences. The narrow cobblestone streets of the Alfama district, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, transport visitors back in time, while the sleek architecture of the Parque das Nações, a modern waterfront development, showcases the city’s forward-looking spirit.

Lisbon’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its many museums, art galleries, and historical monuments. The city is home to the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Belém Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime history. Visitors can also explore the Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River.

Lisbon’s natural beauty is equally captivating. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and stunning beaches, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Participants in World Youth Day 2024 will have the chance to experience Lisbon’s natural wonders, whether it’s strolling along the picturesque beaches of Cascais or taking a boat trip on the Tagus River.

Lisbon’s vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality make it an ideal host city for World Youth Day 2024. The city is well-equipped to accommodate the large number of participants expected, with a modern transportation system, a diverse range of accommodation options, and a variety of dining and entertainment venues.

Theme: “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39)

The theme for World Youth Day 2024, “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39), is inspired by the Gospel account of the Visitation (Luke 1:39-56). In this passage, Mary, upon learning that her cousin Elizabeth was pregnant, sets out immediately to visit her, traveling over mountainous terrain to reach her destination.

The theme of World Youth Day 2024 invites young people to reflect on Mary’s example of faith, courage, and service. Mary’s response to God’s call to be the mother of Jesus shows her willingness to embrace God’s plan, even when it involved challenges and uncertainties.

The theme also highlights the importance of being active in our faith and responding promptly to God’s call. Like Mary, we are called to “arise and go with haste” to serve others and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world.

In the context of World Youth Day 2024, the theme “Mary arose and went with haste” challenges young people to reflect on their own lives and to consider how they can use their gifts and talents to make a difference in the world. The event will provide opportunities for young people to explore ways to live out their faith in their daily lives, to serve others, and to work towards a more just and compassionate world.

The theme of World Youth Day 2024 is a reminder that, like Mary, we are all called to be active participants in God’s plan for our lives. By responding to God’s call with faith and courage, we can make a positive impact on the world and help to build a better future for all.

Pope: Pope Francis

Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, will be at the helm of World Youth Day 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. Pope Francis has a deep connection with young people and has made it a priority of his papacy to reach out to them and listen to their concerns.

Pope Francis is known for his humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice. He has spoken out against poverty, inequality, and the destruction of the environment. He has also encouraged young people to be agents of change in the world and to work towards a more just and compassionate society.

Pope Francis’ presence at World Youth Day 2024 will be a powerful inspiration to the young people gathered in Lisbon. He will challenge them to think deeply about their faith, to live out their values in their daily lives, and to make a positive impact on the world.

Pope Francis’ visit to Lisbon will also be a significant event for the city and for Portugal as a whole. It will be an opportunity for the Portuguese people to welcome the Holy Father and to celebrate their Catholic faith.

The presence of Pope Francis at World Youth Day 2024 is a testament to his commitment to young people and to the future of the Catholic Church. His visit to Lisbon will be a historic event that will leave a lasting impact on the lives of the participants and on the city itself.

Expected attendees: Over 1 million

World Youth Day 2024 is expected to attract over 1 million young people from all corners of the globe. This massive gathering of young Catholics will be a testament to the vitality and diversity of the Catholic Church.

Participants in World Youth Day 2024 will come from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, and languages. They will bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the event, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

The large number of expected attendees presents both challenges and opportunities for the organizers of World Youth Day 2024. They must ensure that there is adequate infrastructure in place to accommodate the large number of participants, including transportation, accommodation, and food services.

However, the large turnout is also an opportunity to showcase the diversity and unity of the Catholic Church. It is a chance for young people from all over the world to come together and celebrate their faith, to learn from one another, and to build lasting friendships.

The presence of over 1 million young people in Lisbon will also have a significant impact on the city itself. It will be a time of celebration and excitement, as the city welcomes visitors from around the world and embraces the spirit of World Youth Day.

Purpose: To celebrate the Catholic faith and promote unity among young people

World Youth Day 2024 is a gathering of young Catholics from around the world that aims to celebrate the Catholic faith and promote unity among young people.

The event provides an opportunity for young people to come together and experience the universality of the Catholic Church. They can share their faith experiences, learn from one another, and grow in their understanding of the Church’s teachings.

World Youth Day 2024 also aims to inspire young people to live out their faith in their daily lives and to be active participants in the Church. The event challenges young people to think deeply about their faith, to make a commitment to Christ, and to serve others.

Promoting unity among young people is a key objective of World Youth Day 2024. The event brings together young people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and languages. It is an opportunity for young people to learn about and appreciate different cultures and to build bridges of understanding and friendship.

By celebrating the Catholic faith and promoting unity among young people, World Youth Day 2024 seeks to strengthen the Church and to inspire a new generation of young Catholics to live out their faith with joy and enthusiasm.

Activities: Catechesis, workshops, concerts, prayer, and Mass

World Youth Day 2024 will offer a wide range of activities for participants, including catechesis, workshops, concerts, prayer, and Mass.

• Catechesis:

  Catechesis sessions will provide participants with opportunities to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith. These sessions will be led by bishops, priests, and other experts in the Catholic Church.

• Workshops:

  Workshops will allow participants to explore a variety of topics related to faith, spirituality, and social justice. Participants can choose from a wide range of workshops, such as those on prayer, Scripture, morality, and service.

• Concerts:

  Concerts will be held throughout World Youth Day 2024, featuring a variety of musical genres. These concerts will provide participants with an opportunity to celebrate their faith through music and to experience the joy of the Gospel.

• Prayer:

  Prayer is an essential part of World Youth Day. Participants will have many opportunities to pray, both individually and as a community. There will be prayer services, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and opportunities for personal reflection.

• Mass:

  Mass is the central liturgical celebration of World Youth Day. Participants will gather for Mass each day of the event, culminating in the closing Mass presided over by Pope Francis.

These activities are designed to provide participants with a rich and transformative experience of faith. World Youth Day 2024 will be a time for young people to grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith, to deepen their relationship with Christ, and to be inspired to live their faith with joy and enthusiasm.

Impact: Spiritual and cultural gathering, fostering hope and inspiration

World Youth Day 2024 is expected to have a profound impact on the participants and on the city of Lisbon. The event will be a spiritual and cultural gathering that fosters hope and inspiration among young people from all over the world.

• Spiritual renewal:

  World Youth Day 2024 will provide participants with an opportunity to experience a profound spiritual renewal. Through catechesis, workshops, prayer, and Mass, participants will have the chance to deepen their faith, encounter Christ in a personal way, and be inspired to live their faith with greater joy and enthusiasm.

• Cultural exchange:

  World Youth Day 2024 will be a celebration of the diversity of the Catholic Church. Participants from over 1 million countries will come together to share their cultures, traditions, and languages. This cultural exchange will foster understanding and appreciation for the beauty and richness of the Catholic Church’s global community.

• Hope for the future:

  World Youth Day 2024 will be a powerful witness to the hope that young people have for the future. The event will showcase the vibrancy and vitality of the Catholic Church and its commitment to building a better world. Participants will leave Lisbon inspired and empowered to make a positive difference in their communities and in the world.

• Inspiration to serve:

  World Youth Day 2024 will challenge participants to think about how they can use their gifts and talents to serve others and to make a difference in the world. The event will provide opportunities for participants to engage in service projects and to learn about social justice issues. Participants will leave Lisbon inspired to live their faith in action and to work towards a more just and compassionate world.

The impact of World Youth Day 2024 will extend far beyond the event itself. The participants will return to their home countries and communities inspired to live their faith with joy, to be witnesses to Christ in the world, and to work towards a better future for all.

Legacy: Long-lasting impact on participants and host city

World Youth Day 2024 is expected to have a long-lasting impact on the participants and on the host city of Lisbon.

For the participants, World Youth Day 2024 will be a transformative experience that will shape their faith and their lives for years to come. The event will provide them with an opportunity to encounter Christ in a personal way, to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith, and to be inspired to live their faith with joy and enthusiasm.

Many participants will leave Lisbon with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. They will be inspired to live their faith in action, to serve others, and to work towards a more just and compassionate society.

For the city of Lisbon, World Youth Day 2024 will be a major event that will leave a lasting legacy. The city will welcome over 1 million young people from all over the world, and it will have the opportunity to showcase its rich history, culture, and hospitality.

World Youth Day 2024 will also provide an opportunity for the city of Lisbon to reflect on its own faith and to renew its commitment to the Gospel. The event will be a catalyst for dialogue and understanding between people of different cultures and religions.

The legacy of World Youth Day 2024 will be a more vibrant and dynamic Catholic Church, a more just and compassionate world, and a city of Lisbon that is more open and welcoming to people of all backgrounds.

Symbol: Cross of the World Youth Day

The Cross of the World Youth Day is a powerful symbol of the event and of the Catholic faith.

• Symbol of Christ’s love:

  The cross is a reminder of Christ’s love for us and of his sacrifice on the cross. It is a symbol of hope and salvation.

• Unity of the Church:

  The cross is a symbol of the unity of the Catholic Church. It represents the unity of all Christians in faith, hope, and love.

• Call to discipleship:

  The cross is a call to discipleship. It reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are called to take up our own crosses and to follow him.

• Symbol of hope:

  The cross is a symbol of hope. It reminds us that even in the midst of suffering and darkness, there is always hope. The cross is a reminder of Christ’s resurrection and of the victory of life over death.

The Cross of the World Youth Day is a powerful symbol that speaks to the hearts of young people. It is a reminder of Christ’s love, of the unity of the Church, of the call to discipleship, and of the hope that we have in Christ.

FAQ

Introduction:

If you’re planning to attend World Youth Day 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you prepare for this exciting event.

Question 1: How do I register for World Youth Day 2024?

Answer: Registration for World Youth Day 2024 will open in early 2023. You can find more information about the registration process on the official website of the event.

Question 2: How much does it cost to attend World Youth Day 2024?

Answer: The cost of attending World Youth Day 2024 will vary depending on factors such as transportation, accommodation, and food. However, the event itself is free to attend.

Question 3: What is the theme of World Youth Day 2024?

Answer: The theme of World Youth Day 2024 is “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39). This theme invites young people to reflect on Mary’s example of faith, courage, and service.

Question 4: Where can I find accommodation during World Youth Day 2024?

Answer: There are a variety of accommodation options available for pilgrims attending World Youth Day 2024, including hotels, hostels, and dormitories. You can find more information about accommodation options on the official website of the event.

Question 5: What activities will be offered during World Youth Day 2024?

Answer: World Youth Day 2024 will offer a wide range of activities for participants, including catechesis, workshops, concerts, prayer, and Mass. There will also be a cultural festival showcasing the diverse traditions of the participating nations.

Question 6: What is the expected attendance for World Youth Day 2024?

Answer: World Youth Day 2024 is expected to attract over 1 million young people from all over the world.

Closing Paragraph:

We hope this FAQ section has answered some of your questions about World Youth Day 2024. For more information, please visit the official website of the event.

As you continue your preparations for World Youth Day 2024, be sure to check out our additional tips and advice to make the most of your experience.

Tips

Introduction:

Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your experience at World Youth Day 2024:

Tip 1: Plan ahead:

World Youth Day is a massive event, so it’s important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Book your accommodation and transportation in advance, and make sure you have a valid passport and any necessary visas.

Tip 2: Pack light:

You’ll be doing a lot of walking during World Youth Day, so it’s best to pack light. Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a backpack to carry your essentials. Remember to also pack any medications you may need.

Tip 3: Be prepared for crowds:

World Youth Day is a popular event, so be prepared for large crowds. Be patient and respectful of others, and follow the instructions of the event organizers.

Tip 4: Embrace the diversity:

World Youth Day is a celebration of the diversity of the Catholic Church. Take the opportunity to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds. Be open to new experiences and learn about different perspectives.

Closing Paragraph:

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your experience at World Youth Day 2024 is safe, enjoyable, and spiritually enriching.

With careful planning and preparation, you can make the most of this life-changing event and return home inspired and renewed in your faith.

Conclusion

Summary of Main Points:

World Youth Day 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal, promises to be a transformative event for young Catholics from around the world. With Pope Francis at the helm, the event will focus on celebrating the Catholic faith, promoting unity among young people, and inspiring them to live their faith with joy and enthusiasm.

The theme of the event, “Mary arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39), invites young people to reflect on Mary’s example of faith, courage, and service. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in catechesis, workshops, concerts, prayer, and Mass, as well as experience the vibrant culture of Lisbon.

World Youth Day 2024 is expected to attract over 1 million young people, creating a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and spiritual growth. The event will leave a lasting impact on the participants and on the host city, fostering hope and inspiration for a better future.

Closing Message:

World Youth Day 2024 is a beacon of hope for the Catholic Church and for the world. It is an invitation for young people to encounter Christ in a personal way, to deepen their faith, and to embrace their role as agents of change in society.

May this event be a catalyst for a renewed commitment to living the Gospel and for building a more just and compassionate world.