Pope will highlight Confession at World Youth Day in Madrid

July 05, 2011

Pope Benedict XVI has introduced two major initiatives at World Youth Day (WYD) celebrations during his pontificate, notes Sandro Magister of L'Espresso.

At his first WYD as Pontiff, in Cologne in 2005, Pope Benedict personally spent a long period in silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. Since that time, Eucharistic adoration has become a regular factor in the WYD schedule.

This year, in Madrid, the Pope will spend an hour hearing the confessions of WYD participants before he celebrates Mass on August 20. By his example the Holy Father is underlining the importance of sacramental Confession, particularly for young people.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Pope Benedict, Confessor. The Debut in Madrid (L'Espresso)