(Krakow, Poland) The Redemptorist Youth – about 1500 participants – from different parts of the world gathered in Krakow to celebrate the Alphonsian Day. A catechesis, Holy Mass, presentation of national groups and meeting with Fr. General Michael Brehl CSsR, were the most important events of the day.
The youth participated in a catechesis of Bishop Andrzej Czaja (Opole, Poland) during which he reminded the youth, “It is time of mercy”.Followed by the catechesis he presided over the Holy Mass for all gathered at the Podgorski Square (just 7 minutes form our Shrine of OLPH). Fr. General, Fr. Alberto Eseverri and about 100 Redemptorists and other priests concelebrated the Eucharist.
Evening of the day was dedicated to the Youth Festival – a feast of joy and faith during the WYDs. National groups from France, Albania, Ukraine, Philippines, Iraq, Argentina, Portugal, Italy, Austria, Poland, Slovakia and Taiwan presented their beautiful programs. Fr. Damian Montes CSsR from Spain sang a few songs for the youth.
After the meeting with Fr. General and his message, there was a procession with a big icon of Mother of Perpetual Help followed by reflection and prayer led by Fr. Michael. The youth from Krakow presented a pantomime about the Divine Mercy and a music group inspired all to a joyful praise of Jesus the Redeemer.
The WYD will be concluded by Holy Mass at “Campus Misericordiae” presided by Pope Francis on Sunday, July 31th. The Archdiocese of Krakow expects about 1.5 million pilgrims at the final event.
Mariusz Mazurkiewicz CSsR
