World Youth Day is a global event that brings together millions of young people for a week of prayer, joy, and adventure. But what goes into the planning and execution of such a massive event? In this interview with Santiago de la Cierva, the head of communications for World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid, we get an inside look at the process and the challenges involved. From Pope Benedict’s call for a personal encounter with Christ to the emphasis on sacraments and individual connections, Santiago shares his insights on what makes World Youth Day such a transformative experience for young people. He also looks ahead to the upcoming event in Lisbon and the new challenges facing young people today.

Receive the most important news from EWTN Vatican via WhatsApp. It has become increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channel today
EWTN
Share
Would you like to receive the latest updates on the Pope and the Vatican
Receive articles and updates from our EWTN Newsletter.
More news related to this article
Pope Leo XIV introduces significant reform to Holy See’s investments
Last week, Pope Leo XIV introduced a significant reform to the financial architecture of the Holy See. With the motu
The World Needs Families: Declining birth rates in Catholic countries
Global fertility rates are declining, even in Catholic countries. The 4th "Stati Generali della Natalità" in Rome emphasized investing in youth to combat this trend and support family growth.
Fra Angelico’s Annunciation: Timeless Masterpiece
Tuscany, the cradle of the Renaissance, gave rise to some of history’s greatest artists. Among them stands Fra
Leo XIV withdraws papal delegate after agreement avoids schism in Syro-Malabar Church
The specter of schism has hovered in recent years over the Metropolitan Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly of the Syro-Malabar Church in India—one of the 24 Eastern Churches in full communion with the Catholic Church.
Art, Faith, and Patronage
In the evening on the third day of their 40th Anniversary Celebration, the Patrons of the Arts of
Saints Cyril and Methodius: Bridging Faith Across Europe
In the heart of Europe, the legacy of Saints Cyril and Methodius, co-patrons of the continent alongside St. Benedict, continues to resonate more than a millennium after their passing.





