The solemn Eucharist, which finished with the commissioning of the disciples –the young people from around the world, was the final event of the XXXI World Youth Day in Krakow. All the activities at Campus Misericordiae was accompanied by a very beautiful and solemn environment. Young people from around the world joined in one place, to give witness to their faith in Jesus Christ. The Pope gave the young people from all continents the Spark of Mercy that they will bring to their own countries.
The Holy Father, after thanking everyone for the realization of the World Youth Day in Krakow, had announced that the next city that will host the young people from around the world in 2019 will be Panama. The news was greeted with great applause and great joy!
Before leaving for the Vatican, Pope Francis met with the volunteers of World Youth Day. The Holy Father thanked them for their efforts in the preparation and holding of this meeting. Surprisingly, Pope Francis did not use the paper with the prepared speech but addressed the assembly spontaneously. He told the volunteers that if they want to be the hope for the future, should bear in mind two things: the memory and the courage. We are aware of who we are, and have the courage and hope for the future. The Pope said he does not know if he will attend the WYD 2019 in Panama, but there will be Peter, who will ask them, if they remember who they are and if they are courageous.
The Farewell Mass was also attended by Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians and Mother Yvonne Reungoat, Superior General of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. In the evening, the Rector Major met the Salesian volunteers, thanking them for the work they have done for the Salesian pilgrims from all parts of the globe.
