A staggering crowd of approximately 1.5 million individuals flocked to a riverside park in the heart of the Portuguese capital to partake in the closing Mass presided over by Pope Francis. The remarkable attendance bore testament to the immense significance of the event, with numerous devotees having spent the previous night outdoors following a vigil, and now congregated in the midst of soaring temperatures.

The World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 marked a globally significant event, bringing together young people from all corners of the world to celebrate faith, hope, and unity. Over the course of a week filled with intense devotion and reflection, the Hill of Encounter bore witness to deeply poignant and emotional moments. The event commenced on Friday, August 4, with the moving Via Crucis, followed by the Vigil on Saturday, August 5, a mesmerizing blend of contemporary music and dance narrating a transformative encounter. The grand culmination came on Sunday, August 6, with the majestic Sending Mass, during which Pope Francis urged the youth to shine as beacons of light in the world, heed God's voice, and fearlessly confront the challenges of the future.

Via Crucis

On the afternoon of Friday, August 4, the Hill of Encounter was transformed into a realm of profound reflection and devotion as the Via Crucis unfolded as a central event of the World Youth Day Lisbon 2023. Guided by Pope Francis and accompanied by young people from around the globe, pilgrims journeyed through the 14 stations, each addressing a vital concern of contemporary society. From the devastations of war to the looming threat of climate change, participants contemplated the challenges humanity faces.

Youth representatives from each of the five continents shared reflections, underscoring the global scope and diversity of the issues discussed. Chaiane Marcante, a 28-year-old member of the Scalabrinian Youth from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, highlighted the significance of the topics addressed, asserting that young people are agents of change in society. She emphasized the relevance of tackling difficult subjects for the holistic development—human, spiritual, and social—of the youth.

Adélio Moreira, a participant from the 'Joy of Living' Youth Group in Barcelos, emphasized the collective responsibility of the Church in addressing the world's challenges, stating that the issues explored in the Via Crucis are matters the Church must confront with engagement and compassion.

Throughout the 14 stations, JMJ Lisbon 2023 pilgrims reflected on themes ranging from solitude and mental health to digital dependency and religious persecution. Mafalda Velho from Alfena shared how the theme of digital dependency inspired the young members of the Jesus Christ Youth Group to reduce their cellphone use during the Journey, underscoring the importance of genuine human connection.

Addressing a crowd estimated at 800,000, Pope Francis evoked the "tears" of the new generations, stressing the need for youth to confront the world's challenges with hope and determination.

Vigil

The evening of Saturday, August 5, bore witness to an exhilarating spectacle at the Campo da Graça during the vigil of the World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 with around 1.5 million people attending. Through a unique fusion of contemporary music and dance, pilgrims were invited to reflect on the transformation that occurs when one encounters God.

The moment of Pope Francis's arrival was accompanied by the melody of "Felizes" and the passage of the papal vehicle, flanked by Air Force jets. Emotional testimonies and musical performances, including that of fado singer Carminho, enriched the vigil, showcasing the diverse talents of the attending youth.

The vigil was divided into two distinct parts, each carrying its own powerful narrative. The first part, focused on the reenactment of a transformative encounter, set the stage for the second part, which included Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The significance of a personal encounter with God, capable of inspiring profound transformations and meaningful actions, was emphasized by the organizers.

The vigil also highlighted the importance of Visitation, as two dancers moved in synchrony, accompanied by drones mimicking the flight patterns of flocks of birds. Dance and music culminated in the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, symbolizing the profound connection between pilgrims and God.

Sending Mass

The Sending Mass, held on the morning of Sunday, August 6, at the Hill of Encounter, marked the conclusion of the World Youth Day Lisbon 2023. In an emotional homily, Pope Francis urged young people to shine as beacons of light in the world, to listen to Jesus's voice, and to not succumb to fear.

Invoking the image of the Transfiguration of Jesus on the mountaintop, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of reflecting God's light in a world often obscured by challenges and uncertainties. He encouraged youth to practice love and compassion, asserting that true radiance lies in the practice of loving one's neighbor.

The invitation to attentively listen to Jesus formed another central point of the homily. Pope Francis implored young people to seek Jesus's guidance in their lives and to learn to love as He loves. He emphasized that genuine wisdom and direction can be found in the words and teachings of Jesus.

The Pope concluded the Mass with a heartfelt declaration that Jesus gazed upon each of them with a loving gaze, fully understanding their essence. He underscored the need for courage in the face of uncertainties and challenges, reaffirming the central message of WYD Lisbon 2023: "Do not be afraid."

The culmination of the Mass was accompanied by a highly anticipated announcement that captured the attention of the congregation. Pope Francis revealed that the next World Youth Day will take place in Seoul, South Korea, in the year 2027. This choice holds special significance, as South Korea boasts a relatively lower density of Catholics compared to other countries. It reflects Pope Francis's strategic vision to reach out to regions where the Catholic community is less prevalent, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and outreach. Members of the South Korean delegation responded with a mixture of anticipation and humility, acknowledging that while they may not expect the same colossal numbers as witnessed in Lisbon, they are determined to showcase their strong organizational capabilities and commitment to delivering an exceptional World Youth Day experience.

World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 will be etched in memory as an event of profound spirituality and global unity reaching its peak at 1.5 million people attending the final events. Over the span of several days, young pilgrims in the presence of Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, pondered upon global issues and fortified their faith through prayer, worship, and communion. The Diocese of Porto, with its remarkable participation and hospitality toward pilgrims (the diocese that brought the highest number of pilgrims to Lisbon), played a pivotal role, showcasing the dedication and commitment of the youth from the northern region. As the celebrations drew to a close, the pilgrims returned to their daily lives, inspired to radiate as luminous beacons, heed God's voice, and confront the future with unwavering courage.