Religious Travelers - Roman Catholic Church World Youth Day, July 15-20 2008 SYDNEY: Index of information

I could not find this major Religious travel even in the forum, so here are a few links for anyone interested in either the event as news or to attend (or if you know anyone coming out for it).

I hope this is helpful. Maybe FT will be used by some Religious Travelers to Sydney in June-July.

Latest WYD08 news: [All from SMH unless noted]

Flights might be delayed (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/flights-might-be-delayed/2008/07/21/1216492297753.html)
Pope leaves Sydney as WYD comes to close (http://news.smh.com.au/national/pope-leaves-sydney-as-wyd-comes-to-close-20080721-3ifw.html)
Pope blesses burns victim Sophie Delezio (http://news.smh.com.au/national/pope-blesses-burns-victim-sophie-delezio-20080721-3igz.html)
Pope meets abuse victims
Sex abuse victims' dad angry with Pope (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-meets-abuse-victims/2008/07/21/1216492296448.html)
Pope Benedict XVI on Monday held mass with four Australian victims of sexual abuse by priests and listened to accounts of their ordeals
Pope draws biggest crowd Australia has seen (http://www.theage.com.au/national/pope-draws-biggest-crowd-australia-has-seen-20080720-3i8z.html?page=-1)[The Age]
A tsunami of faith and joy (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/a-tsunami-of-faith-and-joy/2008/07/20/1216492255391.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap2)
From darkness to light in the cauldron of souls (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/from-darkness-to-light-in-the-cauldron-of-souls/2008/07/20/1216492255811.html)
One little red coat to stand out in a crowd (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/one-little-red-coat-to-stand-out-in-a-crowd/2008/07/20/1216492255453.html)
From a theologian to Pope of the people (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/from-a-theologian-to-pope-of-the-people/2008/07/20/1216492255420.html)
First the fervour, now the reckoning (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/first-the-fervour-now-the-reckoning/2008/07/20/1216492255426.html)
The Lord's prayer: be prophets of this new age (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/the-lords-prayer-be-prophets-of-this-new-age/2008/07/20/1216492255438.html)(extract of Pope Benedict's Homily)
Police officer's dying wish fulfilled (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/police-officers-dying-wish-fulfilled/2008/07/20/1216492255423.html)

[for updates, check SMH - World Youth Day (http://www.smh.com.au/specials/worldyouthday2008/)]


Message on the occasion of the XXIII World Youth Day
MESSAGE OF THE HOLY FATHER BENEDICT XVI TO THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF THE WORLD ON THE OCCASION OF THE XXIII WORLD YOUTH DAY, 2008 (http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/messages/youth/documents/hf_ben-xvi_mes_20070720_youth_en.html)
BENEDICTUS PP. XVI
http://www.vatican.va/gmg/documents/gmg_2008_en.html


World Youth Day 2008 (http://www.wyd2008.org/)
Official site for the international event in Sydney, Australia.

Pilgrims & Registration (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/pilgrims_registration&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=1&usg=AFQjCNGEuvA0SNR7hJrh80WbU9yoaGIdBQ)
ABOUT WYD08 (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/about_wyd08&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=2&usg=AFQjCNFaLMd0aHOj-VXz9XCWOz8CkNgKkw)
Events (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/wyd08_events&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=3&usg=AFQjCNFIpF0OE_dTBl5LA0AWeQ7vsG4kYQ)
Media (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/media&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=4&usg=AFQjCNHGOOCrZeBBolNJXtNspk0hRiQChg)
Journey of the Cross & Icon (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/wyd08_events/journey_of_the_cross_icon&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=5&usg=AFQjCNEb13aaWVl0_E0Cp_tkoyBv_AeCsQ)
ePILGRIMAGE (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/pilgrims_registration/newsletters/epilgrimage&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=6&usg=AFQjCNG9IOFxqDr56BoP8JVmZLlQyjJxEw)
Parishes & Schools (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/parishes_schools&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=7&usg=AFQjCNFP4c5H8wEOOZB-SKoKlTpfqGeWTw)
Image Gallery (http://www.google.com.au/url?q=http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/media__1/image_gallery&sa=X&oi=smap&resnum=1&ct=result&cd=8&usg=AFQjCNFOODU4R1WAjHZ4dJhZxTkbCORneA)



City of Sydney : What's On - Event Details (http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/WhatsOn/link_referrer.asp?casid=976EB0D9-024C-4FD3-9463-E980F48E3FA7&EventID=39207)

World Youth Day 2008 - Visitors - Visas & Immigration (http://www.immi.gov.au/visitors/tourist/wyd_08/index.htm)

World Youth Day, 2008, Harvest Youth Tours, WYD, Sydney (http://www.wydtours.com/)
Harvest Tours is Australia's long serving pilgrimage & WYD travel specialist and now the Officially appointed WYD 2008 Tour Operator and Accommodation ...

Older news articles and background stories:

Gallery: Pilgrims pack Randwick Racecourse for overnight vigil (http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/2008/07/19/1216163227666.html)
Pope acknowledges the 'shame' (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-acknowledges-the-shame/2008/07/19/1216163229694.html)
Pilgrims await Pope's WYD final mass (http://news.smh.com.au/national/pilgrims-await-popes-wyd-final-mass-20080720-3hzr.html)
Overwhelming demand for confessionals (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/overwhelming-demand-for-confessionals/2008/07/19/1216163225930.html)
Pilgrims turn racecourse into shanty town (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-turn-racecourse-into-shanty-town/2008/07/19/1216163241612.html)
Campers in high spirits for a time to cherish (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/campers-in-high-spirits-for-a-time-to-cherish/2008/07/19/1216163236658.html)
Actor moved by playing Jesus (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/actor-moved-by-playing-jesus/2008/07/19/1216163229716.html)
Protest turns ugly as condoms rile marcher (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/protest-turns-ugly-as-condoms-rile-marcher/2008/07/19/1216163229713.html)
Video: Pilgrim arrested at protest clash (http://media.smh.com.au/?rid=39734)
Video: Lesbian love-in Pope protest (http://media.smh.com.au/?rid=39733)
Colourful protesters 'annoy' pilgrims (http://news.smh.com.au/national/colourful-protesters-annoy-pilgrims-20080719-3htn.html)

Protecting hallowed turf could cost $15m (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/protecting-hallowed-turf-could-cost-15m/2008/07/19/1216163229710.html)
Hope and joy at Earth's end (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/hope-and-joy-at-earths-end/2008/07/15/1215887631175.html) (report on WYD Opening Mass)
An appeal on struggle to the lone lost sheep (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/an-appeal-on-struggle-to-the-lone-lost-sheep/2008/07/15/1215887631172.html)
Welcome to paradise for pedestrians (http://www.smh.com.au/specials/worldyouthday2008/)
And there was light and warmth (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/and-there-was-light-and-warmth/2008/07/15/1215887631169.html)
Only abstinence can save drivers from traffic hell (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/only-abstinence-can-save-drivers-from-traffic-hell/2008/07/15/1215887631166.html)
Visitors locked up after revealing asylum plans (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/visitors-locked-up-after-revealing-asylum-plans/2008/07/15/1215887631178.html)
Condoms all round as annoying law dashed (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/condoms-all-round-as-annoying-law-dashed/2008/07/15/1215887631157.html)
'Dwelling crankily' on sex abuse case: bishop (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/bishop-puts-foot-in-it/2008/07/16/1216162910430.html)
Rocking to Bene and the jets (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/rocking-to-bene-and-the-jets/2008/07/14/1215887540808.html)
In tune with the pontiff - piano man of Rome (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/in-tune-with-the-pontiff--piano-man-of-rome/2008/07/14/1215887540784.html)
Gates open for symbol of the faithful (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/gates-open-for-symbol-of-the-faithful/2008/07/14/1215887540802.html)
Trading his iPod for God (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/trading-his-ipod-for-god/2008/07/14/1215887540805.html)
Hundreds arrive to find no room at the inn (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/hundreds-arrive-to-find-no-room-at-the-inn/2008/07/15/1215887549178.html)
Immigration turns away hopefuls (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/immigration-turns-away-hopefuls/2008/07/14/1215887540811.html)
Blighted by cold, warmed by love (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/blighted-by-cold-warmed-by-love/2008/07/14/1215887540814.html)
Honeymoon pilgrim for American Couple (http://dubbo.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/honeymoon-pilgrim-for-american-couple/809523.aspx) [Daily Liberal, Dubbo]
WYD cross and icon arrive in Sydney (http://news.theage.com.au/national/wyd-cross-and-icon-arrive-in-sydney-20080714-3eqs.html)(with a warning) [Age]
Hunt on for missing Indian pilgrims (http://www.stuff.co.nz/4618216a11.html) [stuff, NZ]
World Youth Day: Pope, church out of touch (http://http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,24017157-2,00.html) [NEWS]
Pilgrims turn airport into festival site (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/airport-fiesta/2008/07/14/1215887506792.html)
George Pell: Populate or perish (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/populate-or-perish-pell/2008/07/14/1215887502895.html)
Monday road closures (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/monday-road-closures/2008/07/14/1215887485823.html)
Security scare at Pope's compound (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/security-scare-at-popes-compound/2008/07/14/1215887484616.html)
Sorry is not enough, say victims (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/sorry-is-not-enough-say-victims/2008/07/13/1215887451556.html)
Makeover for the longest flight (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/makeover-for-the-longest-flight/2008/07/13/1215887451559.html)
Welcome to the papal moshpit (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/welcome-to-the-papal-moshpit/2008/07/13/1215887451562.html) [Maronite event]
Pilgrims to curb commuter progress (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-to-curb-commuter-progress/2008/07/13/1215887451565.html)
Pope Lands in Sydney (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-lands-in-sydney/2008/07/13/1215887421428.html)
Pilgrims pray: give us this day our daily text (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-pray-give-us-this-day-our-daily-text/2008/07/12/1215658193615.html)
Host broadcaster Ray Martin on the attack over new police powers (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/martin-on-the-attack-over-new-police-powers/2008/07/12/1215658193619.html)
All set for the Resurrection (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/all-set-for-the-resurrection/2008/07/12/1215658193627.html)
Divorcing elderly wife ends priesthood hopes (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/divorcing-elderly-wife-ends-priesthood-hopes/2008/07/12/1215658193624.html)
Pope sorry for sins of clergy (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-sorry-for-sins-of-clergy/2008/07/12/1215658193607.html)
Teenager waits three years to join the papal throng (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/teenager-waits-three-years-to-join-the-papal-throng/2008/07/12/1215658209210.html)
'Positive energy' rules as 6000 tread city streets (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/positive-energy-rules-as-6000-tread-city-streets/2008/07/12/1215658209213.html)
Forgiving flaws en masse part of the pitch (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/forgiving-flaws-en-masse-part-of-the-pitch/2008/07/12/1215658193610.html)
Pope to address rights issues (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-to-address-rights-issues/2008/07/11/1215658130132.html)
George Pell: Be ready for a richness of joy and hope (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/be-ready-for-a-richness-of-joy-and-hope/2008/07/11/1215658130218.html)
Rules 'would ban giving water to faithful' (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/rules-would-ban-giving-water-to-faithful/2008/07/11/1215658130129.html)
WYD pilgrims march through Brisbane (http://news.smh.com.au/national/wyd-pilgrims-march-through-brisbane-20080712-3dzs.html)
On a wing and a prayer (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/on-a-wing-and-a-prayer/2008/07/11/1215658130208.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1)
Catholic ministers join the queue to say amen (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/catholic-ministers-join-the-queue-to-say-amen/2008/07/11/1215658130126.html)
Traffic restrictions begin for WYD (http://news.smh.com.au/national/traffic-restrictions-begin-for-wyd-20080711-3dby.html)
God's OK, it's just the religion bit we don't like (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/gods-ok-its-just-the-religion-bit-we-dont-like/2008/07/10/1215658037568.html)
Who pays up for a loss? It's a secret (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/who-pays-up-for-a-loss-its-a-secret/2008/07/06/1215282715484.html)
Faith, but it's a test of spirit for the junior minister (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/faith-but-its-a-test-of-spirit-for-the-junior-minister/2008/07/10/1215658037571.html)
School of the prophet welcomes Lord's flock (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/school-of-the-prophet-welcomes-lords-flock/2008/07/10/1215658037562.html)
Sticky problem resolved at posh bunfight (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/sticky-problem-resolved-at-posh-bunfight/2008/07/10/1215658037556.html)
How a Pope got priceless PR for peanuts (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/how-a-pope-got-priceless-pr-for-peanuts/2008/07/10/1215658037553.html)
Dancing pontiff loses the script (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/dancing-pontiff-loses-the-script/2008/07/10/1215658037544.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1) [Pope JPII 1986 visit]
Church agrees to review claim of sexual abuse (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/church-agrees-to-review-claim-of-sexual-abuse/2008/07/10/1215658037559.html)
Pope looking forward to Australia trip (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-looking-forward-to-australia-trip/2008/07/07/1215282707091.html)
World Youth Day rail strike cancelled (http://news.smh.com.au/national/world-youth-day-rail-strike-cancelled-20080708-360t.html)
Pope Strike still on (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/pope-strike-still-on/2008/07/08/1215282799192.html) (cancelled - see above)
Stations of the very cross (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/stations-of-the-very-cross/2008/07/07/1215282747266.html)
Hosts and pilgrims in dark about plans (http://www.smh.com.au/news/worldyouyouthday/hosts-and-pilgrims-in-dark-about-plans/2008/07/07/1215282747299.html)
Faithful get annoyed over merchandise (http://www.smh.com.au/news/worldyouyouthday/faithful-get-annoyed-over-merchandise/2008/07/07/1215282747311.html) [SMH]
Thou shalt not annoy on Youth Day (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/thou-shalt-not-annoy-on-youth-day/2008/06/30/1214950837289.html)
Papal chariot winging its way (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/papal-chariot-winging-its-way/2008/06/29/1214950837376.html)
$175 will guarantee seat at Pope's Mass (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/175-will-guarantee-seat-at-popes-mass/2008/06/26/1214472673422.html)
Pilgrims pray: give us this day our daily text (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-pray-give-us-this-day-our-daily-text/2008/07/12/1215658193615.html)
Host broadcaster Ray Martin on the attack over new police powers (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/martin-on-the-attack-over-new-police-powers/2008/07/12/1215658193619.html)
All set for the Resurrection (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/all-set-for-the-resurrection/2008/07/12/1215658193627.html)
Divorcing elderly wife ends priesthood hopes (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/divorcing-elderly-wife-ends-priesthood-hopes/2008/07/12/1215658193624.html)
Pope sorry for sins of clergy (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-sorry-for-sins-of-clergy/2008/07/12/1215658193607.html)
Teenager waits three years to join the papal throng (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/teenager-waits-three-years-to-join-the-papal-throng/2008/07/12/1215658209210.html)
'Positive energy' rules as 6000 tread city streets (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/positive-energy-rules-as-6000-tread-city-streets/2008/07/12/1215658209213.html)
Forgiving flaws en masse part of the pitch (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/forgiving-flaws-en-masse-part-of-the-pitch/2008/07/12/1215658193610.html)
Pope to address rights issues (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-to-address-rights-issues/2008/07/11/1215658130132.html)
George Pell: Be ready for a richness of joy and hope (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/be-ready-for-a-richness-of-joy-and-hope/2008/07/11/1215658130218.html)
Rules 'would ban giving water to faithful' (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/rules-would-ban-giving-water-to-faithful/2008/07/11/1215658130129.html)
WYD pilgrims march through Brisbane (http://news.smh.com.au/national/wyd-pilgrims-march-through-brisbane-20080712-3dzs.html)
On a wing and a prayer (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/on-a-wing-and-a-prayer/2008/07/11/1215658130208.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1)
Catholic ministers join the queue to say amen (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/catholic-ministers-join-the-queue-to-say-amen/2008/07/11/1215658130126.html)
Traffic restrictions begin for WYD (http://news.smh.com.au/national/traffic-restrictions-begin-for-wyd-20080711-3dby.html)
God's OK, it's just the religion bit we don't like (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/gods-ok-its-just-the-religion-bit-we-dont-like/2008/07/10/1215658037568.html)
Who pays up for a loss? It's a secret (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/who-pays-up-for-a-loss-its-a-secret/2008/07/06/1215282715484.html)
Faith, but it's a test of spirit for the junior minister (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/faith-but-its-a-test-of-spirit-for-the-junior-minister/2008/07/10/1215658037571.html)
School of the prophet welcomes Lord's flock (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/school-of-the-prophet-welcomes-lords-flock/2008/07/10/1215658037562.html)
Sticky problem resolved at posh bunfight (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/sticky-problem-resolved-at-posh-bunfight/2008/07/10/1215658037556.html)
How a Pope got priceless PR for peanuts (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/how-a-pope-got-priceless-pr-for-peanuts/2008/07/10/1215658037553.html)
Dancing pontiff loses the script (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/dancing-pontiff-loses-the-script/2008/07/10/1215658037544.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1) [Pope JPII 1986 visit]
Church agrees to review claim of sexual abuse (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/church-agrees-to-review-claim-of-sexual-abuse/2008/07/10/1215658037559.html)
Pope looking forward to Australia trip (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-looking-forward-to-australia-trip/2008/07/07/1215282707091.html)
World Youth Day rail strike cancelled (http://news.smh.com.au/national/world-youth-day-rail-strike-cancelled-20080708-360t.html)
Pope Strike still on (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/pope-strike-still-on/2008/07/08/1215282799192.html) (cancelled - see above)
Stations of the very cross (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/stations-of-the-very-cross/2008/07/07/1215282747266.html)
Hosts and pilgrims in dark about plans (http://www.smh.com.au/news/worldyouyouthday/hosts-and-pilgrims-in-dark-about-plans/2008/07/07/1215282747299.html)
Faithful get annoyed over merchandise (http://www.smh.com.au/news/worldyouyouthday/faithful-get-annoyed-over-merchandise/2008/07/07/1215282747311.html) [SMH]
Thou shalt not annoy on Youth Day (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/thou-shalt-not-annoy-on-youth-day/2008/06/30/1214950837289.html)
Papal chariot winging its way (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/papal-chariot-winging-its-way/2008/06/29/1214950837376.html)
$175 will guarantee seat at Pope's Mass (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/175-will-guarantee-seat-at-popes-mass/2008/06/26/1214472673422.html)

Unless a last-minute grabaseat to SYD pops up I doubt I'll go because it's the first week back of lectures.

That said BiziBB every World Youth Day has ended up having a lot more people turn up than anticipated - it's not like every pilgrim will have registered...

Anyone considering coming, it would be sensible to register, per the exclusive-access rights for most of the time at Baranagroo:
Sydney foreshore 'pilgrims-only' for WYD (http://news.smh.com.au/national/sydney-foreshore-pilgrimsonly-for-wyd-20080616-2r9o.html)[SMH]

The NSW government's WYD spokeswoman Kristina Keneally said the Barangaroo site, near Darling Harbour, would become a "mini-city" for more than 140,000 young people at any one time.

It will play host to a mass and other events over four days of the six-day Catholic event.

"A large part of this area is bounded by water, so for safety reasons we do need to have fencing around that portion," Ms Keneally told reporters at the site.

"At times, Barangaroo will be a pilgrim-only venue, because of the need to give pilgrims, who have come to World Youth Day, primary access to things like the papal arrival and the stations of the cross."

Pilgrims registered for WYD would receive a "pilgrim pass" to wear around their necks, she said.
"It is their ticket, if you will, for pilgrim-only events," Ms Keneally said.



PS. I hate lanyards (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=748445&highlight=lanyard), too. :mad:

Pope will float on water in harbour city (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/pope-will-float-on-water-in-harbour-city/2008/06/23/1214073151572.html) [SMH]
THE Catholic Church says it is close to achieving its pilgrims target for World Youth Day with 197,000 local and overseas Catholic youth headed for Sydney.

After initially refusing to publish a tally of pilgrim numbers, the church relented last night, reporting that by noon yesterday 132,671 pilgrims had completed their registration by providing organisers with their details.

Another 64,181 had partially completed their registration.
...With three weeks to go, the church said local pilgrims had been slower to respond but its estimate of 225,000 registrations could well be exceeded.
The figures were made public along with details of the papal motorcade, which designated public vantage sites along Sydney Harbour for the boat-a-cade on Thursday, July 17, and his route through Sydney the same day.

The day of the papal welcome has been dubbed "super Thursday" for the disruptions it is expected to cause in the Sydney CBD as thousands of pilgrims join the city's 180,000 office workers.


In other news, condoms will be handed out to pilgrims in Sydney World Youth Day protest (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/sydney-condom-protest-against-pope/2008/06/24/1214073209465.html).

In other news, condoms will be handed out to pilgrims in Sydney World Youth Day protest (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/sydney-condom-protest-against-pope/2008/06/24/1214073209465.html).

Freedom to protest like the example above won't be tolerated.


Thou shalt not annoy on Youth Day (http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2008/06/30/1214677946009.html) [SMH]
EXTRAORDINARY new powers will allow police to arrest and fine people for "causing annoyance" to World Youth Day participants and permit partial strip searches at hundreds of Sydney sites, beginning today.

The laws, which operate until the end of July, have the potential to make a crime of wearing a T-shirt with a message on it, undertaking a Chaser-style stunt, handing out condoms at protests, riding a skateboard or even playing music, critics say.

Police and volunteers from the State Emergency Service and Rural Fire Service will be able to direct people to cease engaging in conduct that "causes annoyance or inconvenience to participants in a World Youth Day event".

WYD is a week-long series of events...

Why call it World Youth Day then? :confused:

These 'causing annoyance' laws have had a good run in the media but the Church spokesperson for WYD spoke in support of freedom of speech, provided the events are not obstructed.

WYD organisers 'didn't ask for rules' (http://news.smh.com.au/national/wyd-organisers-didnt-ask-for-rules-20080702-308y.html)[SMH]
World Youth Day organisers say they did not ask for extra powers to be handed to NSW police for this month's event in Sydney.

World Youth Day 2008 chief operating officer Danny Casey also said controversial "annoyance" laws that would be in force in NSW were not unique, and he supported free speech.


This follows the front page story today...
Protests need our blessing, say police (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/protests-need-our-blessing-say-police/2008/07/01/1214678038215.html) [SMH]
POLICE have told organisations planning to campaign during World Youth Day events they need to have placards, banners and T-shirts pre-approved or risk losing their protest "rights" - even those groups representing victims of sexual abuse by Catholic priests.

A few news stories today.

Most important is a rail strike (http://news.google.com/news?client=opera&rls=en&q=world+youth+day+strike&sourceid=opera&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&um=1&hl=en&ncl=1226252761&sa=X&oi=news_result&resnum=1&ct=more-results&cd=1) on WYD08's busiest day. :mad:
Rail strike planned for Pope's address (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/07/07/2296360.htm?section=justin)
Sydney rail workers have decided to strike for 24 hours during next week's World Youth Day event.
Iemma furious over WYD rail strike 'blackmail' (http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=us/7-0&fp=4871bd9c162f275d&ei=BuJxSKGtBoz0_AHVzfW7DQ&url=http%3A//www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/07/07/2296877.htm%3Fsection%3Dbusiness&cid=1226252761&sig2=6jmanCilIqyzJRvK_JXtFQ&usg=AFQjCNEzOg1gNWV6UtGLSmxtDNtgkRcmgQ)
Youth Day rail strike plan rushed to IRC (http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=us/1-0&fp=4871bd9c162f275d&ei=BuJxSKGtBoz0_AHVzfW7DQ&url=http%3A//www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/07/07/2296579.htm&cid=1226252761&sig2=GkTnrjvNMayhaQm7ukSJ8A&usg=AFQjCNGOjdWzsXtWqdRLRGnNGP9djTg8KQ) [ABC Online]
The New South Wales Government has moved to avert a 24-hour strike by rail workers on the busiest day of next week's World Youth Day event in Sydney

Details of the Pope's request for Catholics to be in Sydney (or attend with hearts and minds), too.

Background to Sydney's World Youth Day: Almost there - the road to success (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/almost-there-the-long-road-to-success/2008/07/06/1215282652823.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1)

Please refer to post #1 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=9816456&postcount=1) for an index of all information.

WYD is a week-long series of events...
Why call it World Youth Day then? :confused:

So, does anybody know the answer to this?

Perhaps if you emailed the organizers?

Perhaps it's similar to a city's "Restaurant Week" being actually 5 days? Or a car rental's "weekend" rates starting on Thursday at 12:01pm even though it's not the weekend. Curious as to why this has you bothered? :)

Curious as to why this has you bothered? :)

I first asked the question out of curiosity since it seems a pretty stupid thing to call something that lasts six days as ".... Day". :p

Given the distance from the Vatican City, I don't think a one day itinerary was on the cards. Here are the events (http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/wyd08_events):
WYD08 Events (http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en/wyd08_events)
The official World Youth Day program contains a week-long program of events.

Tuesday 15 July 2008
4.30pm-6.30pm Opening Mass celebrated by Cardinal George Pell at Barangaroo
Youth Festival events

Wednesday 16 July
9.00am-12.00pm Catechesis (teaching) sessions

Thursday 17 July 2008
9.00am-12.00pm Catechesis (teaching) sessions
2.45pm Papal Boat-a-cade on Sydney Harbour
3.30pm-4.30pm Papal Arrival at Barangaroo
4.30pm-5.30pm Papal Motorcade through Sydney CBD streets
Youth Festival events

Friday 18 July 2008
9.00am-12.00pm Catechesis (teaching) sessions
3.00-6.00pm Stations of the Cross - a re-enactment of the last moments of Jesus' life: St Mary's Cathedral, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Domain
Youth Festival events

Saturday 19 July 2008
From 5.30am Pilgrimage walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Randwick Racecourse
7.00pm-9.00pm Evening Vigil with the Pope and sleep out under the stars

Sunday 20 July 2008
9am, Papal flyover and motorcade through Southern Cross Precinct
10am, Final Mass celebrated by the Pope


Based on the bolded events, I would pick Friday as the 'day' but YMMV. ;)

World Youth Day rail strike cancelled (http://news.smh.com.au/national/world-youth-day-rail-strike-cancelled-20080708-360t.html) [SMH]
NSW rail workers have called off plans to hold a 24-hour strike right in the middle of World Youth Day.

As expected. The managers of the railway operator caved on some parts of the wage negotiations and the union was pulled in by their higher-ups in the union movement.

Further to the rail strike news (victory to the union):
Iemma loses as rail unions win pay rise (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/iemma-loses-as-rail-unions-win-pay-rise/2008/07/08/1215282835399.html)

I first asked the question out of curiosity since it seems a pretty stupid thing to call something that lasts six days as ".... Day". :p

WYD was started by Pope John Paul II in 1986. It was a single-day event held on Palm Sunday in Rome (as it usually is in most years). Every other year (or two) an International WYD is held somewhere around the globe and lasts one or two weeks. The actual day, as it were, is Sunday.

Attention Religious Travelers, just in case you are interested personally or are wondering about the logistics of WYD08, here is a quiz from the SMH.
Most of the Q&A is probably based around current affairs stories in that newspaper, in addition to the logistical info.

It's Quiz Time! (http://www.smh.com.au/multimedia/quiz/quiz.html) [SMH]
Test your knowledge of this year's World Youth Day.
(No need to post questions or feedback... just for your interest)

Lots of stories just added to the OP (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=9816456&postcount=1) - most are here: [all from SMH]





Pilgrims take to the road (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-take-to-the-road/2008/07/10/1215658037461.html)
[]

Traffic restrictions begin for WYD (http://news.smh.com.au/national/traffic-restrictions-begin-for-wyd-20080711-3dby.html)
[]
God's OK, it's just the religion bit we don't like (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/gods-ok-its-just-the-religion-bit-we-dont-like/2008/07/10/1215658037568.html)
[]
Who pays up for a loss? It's a secret (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/who-pays-up-for-a-loss-its-a-secret/2008/07/06/1215282715484.html)
[]
Faith, but it's a test of spirit for the junior minister (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/faith-but-its-a-test-of-spirit-for-the-junior-minister/2008/07/10/1215658037571.html)
[]
School of the prophet welcomes Lord's flock (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/school-of-the-prophet-welcomes-lords-flock/2008/07/10/1215658037562.html)
[]
Sticky problem resolved at posh bunfight (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/sticky-problem-resolved-at-posh-bunfight/2008/07/10/1215658037556.html)
[]
How a Pope got priceless PR for peanuts (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/how-a-pope-got-priceless-pr-for-peanuts/2008/07/10/1215658037553.html)
[]
Dancing pontiff loses the script (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/dancing-pontiff-loses-the-script/2008/07/10/1215658037544.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1) [Pope JPII 1986 visit]
[]
Church agrees to review claim of sexual abuse (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/church-agrees-to-review-claim-of-sexual-abuse/2008/07/10/1215658037559.html)
[]
Pope looking forward to Australia trip (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-looking-forward-to-australia-trip/2008/07/07/1215282707091.html)
[]
$175 will guarantee seat at Pope's Mass (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/175-will-guarantee-seat-at-popes-mass/2008/06/26/1214472673422.html)

[]
[]
[]
For any questions relating to travel to Australia or staying in (getting around) Sydney, be sure to check (or ask questions) in the Australia forum instead of here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=461). Thanks!

WYD was started by Pope John Paul II in 1986. It was a single-day event held on Palm Sunday in Rome (as it usually is in most years). Every other year (or two) an International WYD is held somewhere around the globe and lasts one or two weeks. The actual day, as it were, is Sunday.

I guess it makes sense some years then...thanks!

There are some great stories saved for the Saturday edition of SMH.
I will check the Pope's Alitalia flight into SYD is in that airline's forum (probably the most interest generally to FTers).

On the ground stories for religious travellers to Sydney are here:

Pope to address rights issues (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-to-address-rights-issues/2008/07/11/1215658130132.html)
George Pell: Be ready for a richness of joy and hope (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/be-ready-for-a-richness-of-joy-and-hope/2008/07/11/1215658130218.html)
Rules 'would ban giving water to faithful' (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/rules-would-ban-giving-water-to-faithful/2008/07/11/1215658130129.html)
WYD pilgrims march through Brisbane (http://news.smh.com.au/national/wyd-pilgrims-march-through-brisbane-20080712-3dzs.html)
On a wing and a prayer (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/on-a-wing-and-a-prayer/2008/07/11/1215658130208.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1)
Catholic ministers join the queue to say amen (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/catholic-ministers-join-the-queue-to-say-amen/2008/07/11/1215658130126.html)


Tons of background stories (and event-related previews) here:
http://www.smh.com.au/specials/worldyouthday2008/

A few more stories - notably the logistics of the Pope's arrival (and the mods to the Alitalia B777 - online version of Saturday's story) and that of the pilgrims - and the venues for the week.

Monday road closures (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/monday-road-closures/2008/07/14/1215887485823.html)
The arrival of Pope Benedict XVI in Sydney has signalled the start of a week of constantly changing road closures and "special event clearways", according to the RTA.


Security scare at Pope's compound (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/security-scare-at-popes-compound/2008/07/14/1215887484616.html)
Officer injured after weapons handling mishap.


Sorry is not enough, say victims (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/sorry-is-not-enough-say-victims/2008/07/13/1215887451556.html)
VICTIMS groups say they will wait for action from the Australian Catholic Church before judging the sincerity of any apology from the Pope on clerical sex abuse.


Makeover for the longest flight (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/makeover-for-the-longest-flight/2008/07/13/1215887451559.html) :-: :-:
THE Pope may not have his own jet but on his longest air voyage ever - from Rome to Sydney this weekend - no detail was spared to ensure that his experience was a comfortable and indeed a luxurious one.


Welcome to the papal moshpit (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/welcome-to-the-papal-moshpit/2008/07/13/1215887451562.html) [Maronite event]
"IT'S amazing … I felt lifted. He's like Jesus Christ on Earth," said Liba Vazquez, 17. It was worth waiting two hours in the cold for a glimpse of the Pope, she said.


Pilgrims to curb commuter progress (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-to-curb-commuter-progress/2008/07/13/1215887451565.html)
Sydney is facing major traffic snarls this week, unless 30 per cent of commuters heed advice to leave their cars at home, event organisers have warned.


Pope lands in Sydney (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-lands-in-sydney/2008/07/13/1215887421428.html) [15:00AEST 13.07.08]
Pope Benedict XVI touches down in Sydney for World Youth Day celebrations.


Pilgrims pray: give us this day our daily text (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-pray-give-us-this-day-our-daily-text/2008/07/12/1215658193615.html)
Those looking for divine inspiration need look no further than their mobile phones.




Ray Martin on the attack over new police powers (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/martin-on-the-attack-over-new-police-powers/2008/07/12/1215658193619.html)
Ray Martin, the host of the official World Youth Day television coverage, has criticised the special powers given to police.


All set for the Resurrection (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/all-set-for-the-resurrection/2008/07/12/1215658193627.html)
Up to 100 performers have taken part in the first full dress rehearsal of the Stations of the Cross. (see Event Index for details)


Divorcing elderly wife ends priesthood hopes (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/divorcing-elderly-wife-ends-priesthood-hopes/2008/07/12/1215658193624.html) :confused:
A trainee priest due for an audience with the Pope this week has agreed to leave a seminary after church officials discovered he had an ex-wife 56 years his senior.


Pope sorry for sins of clergy (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-sorry-for-sins-of-clergy/2008/07/12/1215658193607.html)
POPE Benedict said yesterday he wants to apologise to victims of sexual abuse by Catholic priests and wake up consciences on climate change during his pilgrimage in Australia.


Teenager waits three years to join the papal throng (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/teenager-waits-three-years-to-join-the-papal-throng/2008/07/12/1215658209210.html)
GERMAN teenager Jana Aver wanted desperately to go to the last World Youth Day festivities but at 15 she was just two months shy of the minimum age of 16. There was no way she would miss out this year.


'Positive energy' rules as 6000 tread city streets (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/positive-energy-rules-as-6000-tread-city-streets/2008/07/12/1215658209213.html)
THE 6000 World Youth Day pilgrims who marched through Brisbane's streets yesterday morning brimmed with excitement.


Forgiving flaws en masse part of the pitch (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/forgiving-flaws-en-masse-part-of-the-pitch/2008/07/12/1215658193610.html)
THEY look like ordinary white tents, but this week they will be privy to tens of thousands of deep, dark secrets.


See OP (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=9816456&postcount=1)for all stories and events.

It begins today. Mass at Darling Harbour, 4.30PM.
WYD kicks off with Mega Mass (http://news.smh.com.au/national/world-youth-day-kicks-off-with-mega-mass-20080715-3f71.html) [SMH]

So far (as of lunchtime) the even has been running flawlessly.

George St, Sydney's main thoroughfare, is a pedestrian-only path for pilgrims (or anyone else) and major streets in the city are all clearways.

From my desk I've seen and heard helicopters over the Barangaroo / St St Wharf area and across to the city centre. Quite a few over the day.

Everywhere, thre are joyous groups of teens and slightly older people, usually wearing a flag on their back (most Aussies and Kiwis) or with either flags or hats showing their home country. Most are taking tourist pics with their friends in front of everything (anything!).

The weather is glorious - sunny and mid-20s (C), the best weather possible for July.

Every now and then it is possible to hear a group burst into song - it must be a pretty large group to hear from the office. :)
Mass to mark the official start of this event begins in less than a couple of hours, along Darling Harbour.


I hope anyone coming over is already enjoying the holy spirit, the comradeship, the wonderful weather or the sights of Sydney.

Welcome!

View WYD Opening Mass [SMH galleries]

Timelapse: Watch the day flash by (http://media.smh.com.au/?rid=39606).
Photos (http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/2008/07/15/1215887618436.html)
More stories (http://www.smh.com.au/specials/worldyouthday2008/)


The streets of Sydney are still ringing with spontaneous parties as the pilgrims meet up everywhere. :)

A few fun scenes from Hyde Park tday:

Confessional tent - a few people confessing their sins, happily endorsing it on the news
A twentysomething couple who bought wedding rings from Tiffanys (a block or two away) then had the nearest priest bless them


Tomorrow afternoon is the big one - a Papal Boat-a-cade and Motorcade, across the harbour from Mary McKillop's grave in North Sydney and across the city.

Speaking of the harbour - pilgrims, Taronga Zoo is advertising half price entry for registered pilgrims (http://www.taronga.org.au). Definitely worth a visit - just check you can get this deal on the ferry/entry pass available at Circular Quay. ^

Thanks for the note about the zoo discount, BiziBB... thinking about doing this early next week.

Some random thoughts so far:

- It's been amazing these past few days, being among the pilgrims from different nations walking about a (closed) George Street.

- The volunteers and CityRail staff have been very friendly to pilgrims asking for directions to the different venues.

- One thing that has struck me among the locals is that most of them don't know the term "Barangaroo;" rather they just know that area as Darling Harbour.

- Enjoyed the Opening Mass on the Harbour; the walk over to the site was quite a journey but not too bad. However, after the mass, a lot of us weren't too keen on the barricades and police steering the pilgrims out to King St Wharf and Central Station. Fortunately, we found a sympathetic volunteer who did let us out of the exodus early so that we could walk some of the seminarians out to Wynyard Station to catch the bus back to their host families in Baulkham Hills.

ntmayo, if your people would like to do a bushwalk (fairly flat, accessible, around 20mins each way) which ends up with a very scenic view of the city and harbour, framed by an Aussie bushland valley, let me know.

It is only 10-15mins drive from their lodgings in Baulkham Hills. :)
PM for details - I'd be able to get a few of us to be your tour guides, Saturday afternoon if that suits.

Just watching the Pontiff's speech televised live. I'm impressed and happy to see it. ^

What a great day today and an impressive Stations of the Cross yesterday.
I'll post the stories into the index post.
Sydney's best possible weather for winter contiunues - absolutely perfect for a walk across the harbour to what the organisers call the 'Southern Precinct'.

FYI the weather has been perfect, yet again. High cloud to keep the night a bit warmer for the vigil campers but no rain until late in the day. Forecast (http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDN10064.shtml).

Gallery: Pilgrims pack Randwick Racecourse for overnight vigil (http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/2008/07/19/1216163227666.html)
Pope acknowledges the 'shame' (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pope-acknowledges-the-shame/2008/07/19/1216163229694.html)
IT WAS much longed for and, when it came, Pope Benedict XVI's apology to victims of clerical abuse took everyone by surprise.
Pilgrims await Pope's WYD final mass (http://news.smh.com.au/national/pilgrims-await-popes-wyd-final-mass-20080720-3hzr.html)
Overwhelming demand for confessionals (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/overwhelming-demand-for-confessionals/2008/07/19/1216163225930.html)
Pilgrims turn racecourse into shanty town (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/pilgrims-turn-racecourse-into-shanty-town/2008/07/19/1216163241612.html)
Campers in high spirits for a time to cherish (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/campers-in-high-spirits-for-a-time-to-cherish/2008/07/19/1216163236658.html)
Actor moved by playing Jesus (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/actor-moved-by-playing-jesus/2008/07/19/1216163229716.html)
Protest turns ugly as condoms rile marcher (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/protest-turns-ugly-as-condoms-rile-marcher/2008/07/19/1216163229713.html)
Video: Pilgrim arrested at protest clash (http://media.smh.com.au/?rid=39734)
Video: Lesbian love-in Pope protest (http://media.smh.com.au/?rid=39733)
Colourful protesters 'annoy' pilgrims (http://news.smh.com.au/national/colourful-protesters-annoy-pilgrims-20080719-3htn.html)

Protecting hallowed turf could cost $15m (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/protecting-hallowed-turf-could-cost-15m/2008/07/19/1216163229710.html)

Sunday Mass with the Pope and half a million pilgrims and locals

Pope draws biggest crowd Australia has seen (http://www.theage.com.au/national/pope-draws-biggest-crowd-australia-has-seen-20080720-3i8z.html?page=-1)[The Age]
A tsunami of faith and joy (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/a-tsunami-of-faith-and-joy/2008/07/20/1216492255391.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap2)
From darkness to light in the cauldron of souls (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/from-darkness-to-light-in-the-cauldron-of-souls/2008/07/20/1216492255811.html)
One little red coat to stand out in a crowd (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/one-little-red-coat-to-stand-out-in-a-crowd/2008/07/20/1216492255453.html)
From a theologian to Pope of the people (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/from-a-theologian-to-pope-of-the-people/2008/07/20/1216492255420.html)
First the fervour, now the reckoning (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/first-the-fervour-now-the-reckoning/2008/07/20/1216492255426.html)
The Lord's prayer: be prophets of this new age (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/the-lords-prayer-be-prophets-of-this-new-age/2008/07/20/1216492255438.html)(extract of Pope Benedict's Homily)
Police officer's dying wish fulfilled (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/police-officers-dying-wish-fulfilled/2008/07/20/1216492255423.html)

Sunday happy snaps (http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/2008/07/17/1216163019916.html)
[SMH unless noted otherwise]

It's time to wrap it up... Lots of pilgrims still here but this is almost the final word:
Australia was extraordinary: Pope (http://www.smh.com.au/news/world-youth-day/australia-was-extraordinary-pope/2008/07/28/1217097089311.html) [SMH]
Pope Benedict has described his trip to Australia for World Youth Day as "an extraordinary experience" which demonstrated the youthful face of the Catholic Church.

Speaking before the weekly Angelus prayer at his summer residence outside Rome, he paid tribute to "the multicoloured mosaic created by the boys and girls from every part of the earth, all reunited by one faith in Jesus Christ".

"I still have in my eyes and in my heart this extraordinary experience, in which I was able to meet the youthful face of the church," the Pope said.

He thanked the church and civil authorities in Australia for their co-operation in organising World Youth Day, which brings together young Catholics from across the world every two or three years.

Hundreds of thousands of people, including about 135,000 young people, attended a Mass last Sunday marking the end of the events in Sydney, and the Pope, in Australia since July 12, returned home on Monday.

As a participant at WYD, I'd like to thank all Sydneysiders for their hospitality, friendliness and patience. I heard nothing but praise and appreciation from my fellow pilgrims about their experiences in Australia. I hope it translates into future tourism revenue (especially if and when the U.S. dollar strengthens :rolleyes:) as well as spiritual renewal in Australia.

Alas, my local paper only reported about apologies and meetings with victims; there was no mention of 400,000 pilgrims gathering for prayer with the pontiff. O tempora O mores