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
Today marks the anniversary of the canonization of St. John Paul II and St. John XXIII
St. John Paul II and St. John XXIII
Pope Francis Says Young People Will Emerge Energized from World Youth Day
It is less than 3 months until World Youth Day, and Pope Francis says he hopes participants use
The Vatican’s Stance on Artificial Intelligence
The Vatican, through voices like Cardinal Michael Czerny and Pope Francis, emphasizes the dual potential of Artificial Intelligence to both aid and endanger peace, stressing the importance of ethical use and global responsibility.
No pasta carbonara or hard liquor on cardinals’ conclave menu
Nutritionist Giorgio Calabrese, an Italian doctor who specializes in nutritional science, prepared the menu for the cardinal electors who have kicked off the conclave to elect the next pope.
Vatican Bank recorded a net profit of 32.8 million euros in 2024, up 7% from 2023
The Vatican Bank — a small financial institution with just over 100 employees founded in 1942 — obtained a net profit of 32.8 million euros (about $37.7 million) in 2024, compared with 30.6 million euros (about $35.1 million) in 2023.
Pope Francis returns to the Vatican after 3 days in the hospital
Pope Francis was discharged from the hospital Saturday morning after a three-night stay in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. Before





