The event is aimed at young people aged 14 to 30 years of age. Approximately 300,000 are expected to attend from 200 nationalities.

Focolare will be involved in several ways. Most important are the youth members attending either under their own steam, part of the diocesan delegations or involved in the organization. Margaret Karram and Jesús Morán will be giving input in the Catechetical sessions. Carlos Palma of Living Peace International will be there. On his arrival he said, “I have just arrived to a warm welcome in Lisbon, Portugal. We are starting a new adventure that will involve hundreds of thousands of young people from all over the world… including some from our Living Peace Network. We will keep you informed of the various events. We feel we are here to represent you all!!”. Gen Verde are offering the “Start Now” project and a concert. Gen Verde have written a special song for the event, “Girl on a Mission” which you can access here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hsza1S_lrA

A World Youth Day App is now available, “Lisboa 2023” (download in the usual ways) in the 5 official languages of the meeting. As well as providing helpful information for participants, it includes the programme of the central events of the week. You can also keep up to date by following Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldyouthday

Watch this space for more info!