2 Year Countdown - National Commemorative Programmes
July - August 2006 The mainland Archdioceses all had significant youth events commemorating the two year anniversary, ranging from Catechesis sessions with the local Bishops to evenings of prayer and youth festival celebrations. more... Activ8 National Tours
- Bishop James Wingle As part of the Acitvi8 National Tour Programme, Bishop James Wingle of Diocese of St Catherines in Ontario, Canada, will be touring Australia in October/November of 2006. Bishop Wingle, a dynamic and spirited speaker will address young people Australia wide giving them a taste of what to expect during the World Youth Day events in 2008. Download the flyer !
- Fr Stan Fortuna FFR The National Tour Programme continues with a visit from Fr Stan Fortuna, a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal. Internationally known for his rap music as well as for his powerful preaching and work with the poor in the Bronx, Fr Stan travels extensively, performing his music and proclaiming the Gospel at conferences, retreats, and youth prayer festivals all over the world. He is a familiar patron of the World Youth Days and will tour Australia in April 2007. Stay tuned for more details. Handover of Cross and Icon - Palm Sunday Rome 2006
Following the tradition established since the first international World Youth Day, the Handover of the Cross and Icon took place on Palm Sunday in St Peter's Square as part of the Palm Sunday Mass celebrated by His Holiness. In a moving ceremony the Cross was officially 'handed over' by the young people of Germany to the youth of Australia.
A delegation of 60 young Australians including members of the Australian Government were present. The Cross and Icon will undertake a journey throughout Australia and Oceania from Palm Sunday 2007 to July 2008, touching the lives of thousands of people as a sign of hope and pilgrimage.