World Youth Day 1995
| Date | January 10–15, 1995 |
|---|---|
| Location | Manila, Philippines |
| Theme | As the Father sent me, so am I sending you (Jn 20:21) |
World Youth Day 1995 was a Catholic youth festival that took place from January 10–15, 1995 in Manila, Philippines. It was the first time for an Asian country to host the event. Pope John Paul II presided over the event, marking his second trip to the country.
Youth pilgrims gathered from different parts of the world to worship together, learn of each other's cultures, and to talk amongst one another as "brothers and sisters." The event was celebrated with different activities including a "Barrio Fiesta," where assigned groups would gather to socialize and have fun. Masses were celebrated everyday in almost every Catholic Church in the Philippines.
The closing Mass, held at Luneta Park, was estimated to have been attended by more than 5 million people; current world record for the largest Papal gathering in Roman Catholic history. Some have even suggested it may have been the largest Christian gathering ever, although this is not certain.
After the event, and 8 years after, the Pope was supposed to visit the Philippines again for the World Meeting of Families in 2003. However, due to advancing health problems, he was prevented from doing so. His 1995 Pastoral visit to the country was his last.
Country delegations
Pilgrims at WYD1995 represented the following countries[1]:
Africa
The Americas
Asia
Europe
Oceania
Notes and References
- ^ The Roman Catholic Church considers five inhabited continents when listing countries.
External links
World Youth Day events | |
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 Pope John Paul II | |
 Pope Benedict XVI | |
 Pope Francis | |
| Planned | |
