This was another day rich of many events. From the morning the pilgrims attended the catechesis, divided by language groups, they visited the vocational centre and went on pilgrimage to the various places of worship, such as the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy and the John Paul II Centre. Besides, throughout the day, there were many cultural events: concerts, exhibitions and film projections.
The Vocational Centre, which is open for three days, draws crowds of people. It is a beautiful initiative for those who wish to get acquainted with the diversity of the Church. The stand of the Salesian Family is constantly surrounded by a crowd of visitors who want to know the Salesian charism.
The most important moment of the day was the welcome encounter of the Holy Father with the youth of the whole world. The Holy Father arrived by tram, accompanied by a group of disabled people. Each continent was presented with dances and songs. Each part of the world had their patron saint. Sanctity, in fact, is for all. Among the patron saints of WYD, there is also Dominic Savio. A special multimedia projection was used to present the message coming from the lives of some patron saints of Cracow WYD, and whose source is the Gospel.
Pope Francis pronounced a welcome address to the participants in the opening ceremony. He said that mercy has an ever-young face. The Holy Father emphasized that there is nothing more beautiful than the wishes, the passion, the commitment and the energy with which the youth live their lives. Francis warned them to not become too soon “retired people”. He addressed the pilgrims of WYD with a warning to not give in to dealers of false illusions. Referring to the gospel account of the encounter of Jesus in the house of Martha and Mary, the Pope exhorted the youth to let Jesus come into their hearts and to listen to His Word.
