We are planning on some WilCoYA members attending World Youth Day in Madrid in the Fall of 2011. Planning is already underway. Check out this information from the diocese. Bishop Joe Vasquez will also be joining the group for his first World Youth Day, and hopes that each parish can send at least one representative. Email us at info@wilcoya.com to let us know you are interested in going with us as a group.

*****There will be an informational meeting at the Diocese Pastoral Center on Saturday June 12th 10-11:30AM
See the Facebook Event for more info.*****

What is World Youth Day?

World Youth Day began in the early 1980’s with an invitation from John Paul II inviting young people to attend an International Jubilee of Youth in St. Peter’s Square.  This event has grown to be the single largest, international gathering of young people the world has ever seen.  WYD attracts pilgrims from some 200 nations who gather to celebrate their faith in the Catholic Church.  World Youth Day 2011 will be hosted in Madrid, Spain.  The theme for WYD 2011 is “Rooted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith” (Col 2:7).  The 2011 theme celebrates the strength the Church has when its members are firmly connected to Jesus Christ.

What is a Pilgrimage?

Made since the early church, a pilgrimage is a spiritual journey to a sacred place in which one joyfully responds “yes” to God’s invitation.  A pilgrimage requires a commitment to leave one’s problems behind and follow the desire of the heart in devotion, penance, or thanksgiving, returning home transformed by the special graces received.

Package Options/Estimated Costs*
Portugal/Spain/Madrid                                                         $3,450
Paris/Southern France/Madrid (for those 18 and up)               $3,750
Rome and Madrid (for Spanish speakers 18 and up)               $3,750
Madrid                                                                                $2,750
* Estimated prices are subject to change

The Next Step
Upon receipt of deposit, we will send an email confirmation with further details.

Important Dates:
March 31, 2010: Registration Open.  $250 Deposit and Registration form Due no later than August 31st.

Proposed Deposit Schedule
	Date	Paris or Rome	Portugal		Madrid Only
Total Estimated Cost		3750	3450		2750
Initial*	31-Mar	250	250		250
	31-Aug	750	750		750
	30-Nov	750	750		750
	28-Feb	750	750		750
	31-May	1250	950		250

*Initial Deposit is due sometime between March 31st and August 31st.