“Go and make disciples of all nations” is the theme of the Rio de Janerio World Youth Day in 2013.
The next WYD will be held earlier than normal, leaving two years for preparations. This is due to Rio hosting the football World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games two years later.
“Even now, let us ask the Lord to assist all those who will organise it and to ease the journey there of young people from all over the world, so that they will be able to join me in that beautiful city of Brazil,” the Pope said.
The 2011 Madrid event clearly left a strong impact on Benedict. At his audience at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope Benedict called WYD 2011 “a precious event”.
They were “extraordinary days,” and it was “a very moving church event,” the pontiff said.
“I thank God for this precious gift, which gives hope for the future of the church.”
Sources