Established by Pope John Paul II in 1985, World Youth Day (WYD) brings together young Catholic pilgrims aged 16 to 35 from across the globe. The multi-day international festival occurs every three to four years, is complemented by annual local diocesan celebrations, and features prayer vigils, worship, cultural exchanges and large liturgies presided over by the Pope to foster faith and global unity.
With the next international gathering set for Seoul, South Korea, in August 2027, the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) officially launched their local preparations on Thursday 13 August. The launch event gathered secondary students from across the archdiocese for a focused formation day. Led by youth formation leaders, these interactive workshops highlighted global community and mission, empowering students to connect with the broader universal Church as Melbourne begins its official countdown and pilgrimage journey toward Seoul 2027.
Some of our students were fortunate enough to attend this faith-filled communal event, and Year 10 student Ivanka gives her reflection on the day below.
The World Youth Day Launch Day in Melbourne was a great experience where I got to celebrate my faith with my school and students from other schools. We listened to personal stories and reflections, took part in small-group activities, and had the chance to meet and talk to other young people. I was able to reconnect with a lot of the other people I met from Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) 2025. There was also lots of music which was my favourite part. This created a fun and energetic atmosphere throughout the day.
Overall, I really enjoyed being surrounded by other young Catholics and sharing the experience together. I believe that we really need to keep growing this atmosphere of youth and getting youth involved in their faith and growing their relationship with God.
