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World Youth Day is an international gathering of Catholic young people (typically ages 16-30) from around the world held approximately every 2-3 years in varying host countries. It began with Pope St. John Paul II in 1984 as an outreach to the youth of the world and an invitation to an encounter with the Pope and other young people. The first World Youth Day was held in Rome, Italy in 1986. World Youth Day 2019 was held in Panama City, Panama 24-27 January 2019. The theme of WYD was "I am a servant of the Lord, may it be done to me according to your word," (LK 1:38). Pope Francis, arrived in Panama on Wednesday, 23 January. A welcoming ceremony was held at the Santa Maria la Antigua Field along the Cinta Costera in the early evening. The pope arrived on the popemobile to an enthusiastic welcome by the estimated 250,000 young people. Amid festive music and the waving of the flags of so many countries, the popemobile passed through the crowd. Much was discussed and learned by those who attended the four-day event. In his final remarks at the end of WYD Pope Francis said: “I ask you not to let the fervor of these days grow cold. Go back to your parishes and communities, to your families and your friends and share this experience, so that others can resonate with the strength and enthusiasm that is yours.” Vatican City issued a €2,60 stamp commemorating the event. The stamp depicts Pope Francis and two young people. In the background is the Panama Canal, a Cross, and the Blessed Mother, symbolizing the arrival of youth from five continents, guided by Mary and the Cross of Christ. Patrizio Daniele designed the €2,60 stamp which was printed in sheets of ten. Technical Details: Scott Catalogue - 1707 - 1707 Date Issued - 11 February 2019 Face Value - €2,60 Perforations - 13x13.75 Printing Process - Offset Printer - Cartor (France) Max Printed - 80,000 |
| (Source - Vatican Notes: Volume: 67 Issue: 380 Page: 4-6) |
