2002

25th July 2002
Local Celebration Coincides with international Youth Celebrations
Ten young Catholics from the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle will be among the one million plus young people expected to gather with Pope John Paul II for World Youth Day celebrations in Toronto, Canada this Sunday 28th July.

As the celebrations take place in Toronto, Canada, in an act of solidarity, over 250 Hunter young Catholics will gather to celebrate Mass with Bishop Michael Malone at Toronto, Newcastle.

Initiated by Pope John Paul II, World Youth Day is a biennial gathering that brings together Catholic youth between the ages of 16 and 35 from every continent and nation.

The international event began in 1987 when Pope John Paul II invited youth from around the world to gather in prayer for peace and reconciliation.

According to Ms Maryanne Healey, Diocesan Youth Ministry Coordinator, "For many young people, participating in the international World Youth Day celebrations is an unforgettable experience.

"Past participants have been impressed by the presence and preaching of Pope John Paul II who has inspired them to follow their faith generously. They have also been able to meet people from around the world who share the same faith and learn from each other.

"The aim of our local gathering is to demonstrate our unity with those pilgrims gathered in Canada and to provide an opportunity for those who couldn't travel overseas to come together and pray for young people.

Ms Healey said, "While World Youth Day is a celebration for young people, it's an opportunity for all of us to show our support for young people; and to acknowledge and celebrate the gifts and talents of young people."

The ten Hunter youth attending the celebrations in Canada come from the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Manning, and lower Hunter areas.

WORLD YOUTH DAY CELEBRATIONS IN THE DIOCESE OF MAITLAND-NEWCASTLE

WHEN: Sunday 28th July 2002
WHAT: Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael Malone
WHERE: Toronto Parish Church, Lot 28 Main Road Kilaben Bay
TIME: 2:00 pm

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