“World Youth Day is an absolute blast and a must-do for all young Catholics. I thoroughly recommend this event to anyone who is after a life-giving and transformative Christian faith experience!”
Tom Dravitzki, WYD 2008 & 2016
“From my personal experiences with two World Youth Days, I would certainly recommend it to anyone thinking of going. Leaving home and traveling on my own at a young age was pretty terrifying but going as part of a youth group made it a safe way for me to see different parts of the world and experience different cultures. Through both pilgrimages I made very special friendships, mixed with many other cultures, saw some amazing sights, but most importantly for me, I witnessed genuine joy, kindness & love. On my second WYD in 2011, I became unwell and ended up in hospital in Spain. We had a nurse as part of our group who stayed with me and showed me constant care. A local family then unexpectedly welcomed me into their home to stay a few nights with them so that I wasn’t sleeping in a noisy school hall amongst many others. Their kindness allowed me to get some decent rest and to recover. That’s something I’ve never forgotten – even 11 years on. That experience of being so well looked after made me want to live my life in the same way – caring for others, being willing to open my home or arms and help those in need by bringing them comfort. For me, that’s what faith is all about and that’s what attending WYD is about too. Coming together, celebrating and accepting all people, experiencing values in everyday life and witnessing people showing love to each other. Especially in a world that, at times, can be so full of hate.”
Morgan Dysart, WYD 2008 & 2011
“The highlight for me – apart from the opportunity to travel and visit places I have always wanted to visit – was being part of such a huge group of young people who all shared the same faith. We often feel like a minority here in NZ where things are shifting towards a more secular way of life, but seeing the global Church in action for myself was truly awe-inspiring. Also being able to experience how other cultures practice their faith was very special.”
Emma Dodsworth, WYD 2008 & 2011
