Katherine Valles, 20
St. Sebastian, Woodside
The Mass this morning celebrated by Pope Francis at Copacabana was really beautiful. As far as I could see, the beach was packed with pilgrims from all over the world united in faith.
William Ross Cadelina, 17
Our Lady of the Snows, N. Floral Park
World Youth Day was one experience that I’ll never forget. I was able to meet and befriend so many people from around the world and become one whole, gigantic Church family. I am definitely looking forward to the next World Youth Day in Poland.
Ric Crossfield, 18
Presentation of the B.V.M., Jamaica
Since this was my second WYD, what struck me was the overwhelming presence of the Holy Spirit. As the days went by, that feeling only got stronger and stronger. It helped many of us answer many spiritual questions.
Leone DuBoulay, 17
St. Joseph, Prospect Heights
World Youth Day 2013 was a life-changing experience during which we met new people and were introduced to a new way of living life. I loved it! It was an awesome trip. Everyone was kind and loving. They greeted us like they already knew us.
Emely M. Vargas, 17
Our Lady of Sorrows, Corona
At first, I was very scared to come to Rio for World Youth Day, but I have honestly enjoyed my experience a lot. My faith has grown, and it was amazing seeing so many people of the same faith from all over the world. I would recommend WYD to any Catholic ready for challenge and growth.
John Maniego, 18
Holy Family, Flushing
World Youth Day has been a wonderful experience overall. This event impacted my life in every way. I was overwhelmed by the amount of people who were united under one faith, who wanted to see the pope and participate in Mass at Copacabana beach.
John Pili, 24
St. Sebastian, Woodside
WYD 2013 was the most spiritual challenging event of my life. In catechesis, I was able to delve deeper into my faith and ask some questions to myself: Who am I in God’s eyes? What purpose do I have in God’s will?
Maria Severino, 17
Our Lady of Sorrows, Corona
World Youth Day enlightened me as to just how many there are in the Catholic faith. It was the Year of Faith, and I can say that mine has definitely grown and will remain firm in this world. It was a priceless experience and definitely won’t be my last World Youth Day.
Gloria Guaman, 19
Presentation of the B.V.M., Jamaica
This was my first WYD experience, and it was amazing. Getting to see the pope up close is a blessing.
Jackie Sinchi, 16
Presentation of the B.V.M., Jamaica
World Youth Day is the best pilgrimage any young Catholic could ever experience. It allows us to grow stronger in our faith and gives us hope as we gather together from all around the world.
Mame-Maria Loaiza, 21
Presentation of the B.V.M., Jamaica
This being my first time at WYD, I can honestly say it has been an amazing experience. It has opened my heart greatly to the Lord, and I feel I am closer to Him than ever. I can’t wait for Poland in 2016!
Christopher Reyes, 19
St. Joseph, Prospect Heights
My whole experience was amazing because I met people from around the world. That was something that opened my Catholic faith a lot. It was amazing, not only the beaches and food. Being able to see Christ the Redeemer shows that Christ Jesus impacts people all around the world.
Jarenth De Leon, 19
Our Lady of the Snows, N. Floral Park
WYD 2013 has been a defining moment of my faith and what it is like to be a young Catholic. It has been an eye-opening experience with regards to what I am supposed to do as a young Catholic and what my calling is. Through the midst of the chaotic week, I was able to learn how much sacrifice and devotion we are all willing to give to the Lord.