World Youth Day and Pope Francis going to Panama

World Youth Day and Pope Francis going to Panama July 31, 2016

panamaThe fact that the president of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela, was attending World Youth Day should have given it away.  The immediate fact that he was sitting next to Poland’s president during the closing Mass today should have also given it away.  The announcement by Pope Francis was received with an enormous cheer: “I am happy to announce that the next World Youth Day – after the two that will be held on the diocesan level – will take place in 2019 in Panama.”

There were rumors that it would be in Seoul, South Korea.  A few people asked me about another rumor that it would be in Atlanta, Georgia.  I had also heard Panama.  Now we know for sure.

Perhaps some are surprised about the choice.  Panama City is a very modern city of 1.5 million.  There are plenty of attractions to visit including the old Spanish city and the canal.  Located in the middle of the Americas, it is conveniently located for millions of Catholics.  Almost half of the world’s Catholics live in the Americas, so the crowds in 2019 should be enormous.

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Pilgrims, Krakow

It seems appropriate that Pope Francis would want to hold this event in Latin America.  He is already a celebrity for all Latin Americans, despite our many differences.

Over two million present at the closing Mass of World Youth Day not only heard this announcement (which everyone anxiously awaited) but most importantly, they heard a well crafted homily where the Pope preached on the Gospel passage of Zacchaeus.  Pope Francis delivered beautiful, encouraging, hope-filled words.  Using Zacchaeus as an example, Francis told the youth not to be afraid, to be bold, to seek goodness, and to dream. Just as he did not allow his limitations to keep him back, we must go forward fearless to evangelize.  The Pope reminded them that World Youth Day continues in their homes since that is where Jesus wants to go, just as he wanted to go into Zacchaeus’ house.

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True pilgrims sleeping in tents in downtown Krakow

After the Mass concluded, the skies opened and it poured over the pilgrims.  I heard even hail fell in Krakow.  Thankfully, these past days we were blessed with beautiful weather.

Now millions return home.

Now starts the true purpose of World Youth Day.

May the lessons and experiences of these past days spread throughout the world as the young people (and the not so young) return to their homes and communities having been strengthened in their faith.  May these days continue to bear great fruit.


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