Pre Novice Experiences WYD 2013

Manuel Romero is a pre novice studying at D’Youville College in Buffalo, NY.  Romero traveled to Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day 2013 from July 23-28.  WYD includes many activities like catechesis, cultural events and other faith related activities.  The theme of WYD 2013 was, “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).  Romero recounts his trip.  

 

The International Oblate Youth Encounter was a great experience. Not only did I meet young people from all over the world but I also got to experience the Oblate charism through them. The program was very helpful for us to interact with each other and it encouraged us to embrace everyone as part of a big Oblate family. Jesús was present in every aspect of the encounter.

 

World Youth Day in Río de Janeiro was a life changing experience. I got to realize the greatness of our faith through every person I met and event I went. I saw Pope Francis up close in a couple of instances in Río and prayed the Angelus on Thursday noon with him which was the highlight of my trip. Being instructed by Pope Francis in the Christian faith with more than three million people made me realize the magnitude of our beautiful church and how the youth is very important to keep proclaiming the love of God. The theme of this encounter was “Go make disciples of all nations” and our holy father asked us to get rid of the fear to show the love of Jesús to the world.