with the Pope at World Youth Day

01 August 2016

(ANS - Krakow) – On Saturday 30 July the youth held a prayer vigil at Campus Misericordiae. It was attended by more than a million pilgrims from around the world. Pope Francis presided at the Vigil. A special moment was the testimony of three young people from different parts of the world. One of them was Rand Mittri, from the Salesian Oratory at Aleppo in Syria. She gave testimony to her faith even in the war-torn country.

The prayer vigil at Campus Misericordiae was held under the title: "Jesus is the fount of mercy". The Merciful Jesus was portrayed in music and theatre. He is the One who shows us love and teaches us to show love towards our neighbour. The key to our life is to discover the way to Him. Pope Francis spoke of this way, encouraging young people not to not live their lives on the couch, in comfort and safety. Francis asked the young people to look for the ways taught by Jesus and follow them.

During the meeting five main themes were discussed: faith for those in doubt, hope for the discouraged, love for those who are indifferent, forgiveness for those who are hurt and joy to those who are unhappy. Three young people from Syria, Poland and Paraguay gave testimonies of their journey with Jesus and for Jesus.

Rand Mittri, a leader of the Salesian oratory in Aleppo spoke of her experience of war and injustice and her faith and hope of a better tomorrow. She spoke of the tragedy that befell her relatives. They left home and have not returned, but she stressed that nothing will take away hope. For Rand, the source of joy and peace is faith in Jesus Christ. Finally she asked everyone to pray for her and her country.

After the prayer vigil there was a special concert entitled "I believe in Divine Mercy" with numerous artists from all over the world.

 

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