Our Youth

Let Them Speak: Accepting My Transformation

February 7, 2019
Myriame Delva was one of two from her parish, St. Jerome’s Church in Flatbush, who attended World Youth Day in Panama City with the Diocese of Brooklyn contingent. Above, a fellow pilgrim from her parish took her photo in front of Pope Francis’ picture at the airport which said “Welcome to Panama, pilgrims.”

Part 1 of 2 in a series. Delva wrote this reflection prior to experiencing the first few days at World Youth Day.

PANAMA CITY, Panama – I wanted to come on this pilgrimage because I believe that there is a transformation to come.

I want to be closer to God, to change my heart, to change my ways in ways that give me a better relationship with God and bring me closer to the footsteps He wants me to follow.

Family of Pilgrims

My older brother actually went to World Youth Day 2008 in Australia and my older sister went to World Youth day 2013 in Brazil and their lives have changed.

Related: Let Them Speak: Change Begins Within

Here I Am, Lord

Now here I am in Panama 2019 with an open heart ready and willing to accept any transformation in any way, shape or form possible.

Even if there isn’t any transformation, at least I get to go back home and say I walked the same footsteps as Pope Francis. We look up to the pope as the leader of all the universal Catholic church.

Most Meaningful Journey

I know that coming on this trip with the pope will be the most meaningful journey that I will take this year.

Delva is a parishioner at St. Jerome Church, Flatbush, and attended her first World Youth Day in Panama this past January.