ASSUMPTION YOUTH PILGRIMAGE
World Youth Day 2023
A gathering of pilgrims, a celebration of community and faith, with the Assumption Family.
"No to walls, "Yes" to horizons!”
Dear Friends in Christ,
In August 2023, all roads will seem to lead to Lisbon for World Youth Day, a gathering of young people all over the world with the Pope. Exciting isn’t it? But if you are like me, I would be scared because it feels like entering a big dance hall— beautiful and nice—but you really don’t know anyone enough to dance with. This is why I would like you to consider joining our Assumption Youth Pilgrimage group as a delegate, volunteer or sponsor to the World Youth Day happening in Lisbon.
We may be able to teach you a few dance steps along the way but we are all about being a community. Perhaps you know the Assumption because you are a student, a resident, a lay partner, a colleague, a relative or a friend. Even if you aren’t any of these, that’s fine. All are welcome, and now is the perfect time to be part of this wonderful community.
So, if this is convincing enough, let’s go to the details.
Our Journey
Here’s our general itinerary for now. We will update this page soon with more details.
Who We Are
We, the Augustinians of the Assumption, the Religious Sisters of the Assumption, and the Oblate Sisters of the Assumption all share a common heritage as a spiritual family. We welcome you to share in our spirituality and mission. We welcome you in friendship…
Countries of origin
Our group will consist of pilgrims from three countries that constitute North America where members of the Assumption Family serve. We are from US, Canada, and Mexico. During our activities together, we will be using three official languages: English, French and Spanish. Going around Lisbon, English and Portuguese will be helpful.
countries we will visit
In turn, we will visit three countries in Europe. We will visit Spain, Portugal and France. There we will meet other members of the Assumption Family, young people from all over the world, and the Pope.
BASIC PILGRIMAGE LOCATIONS
We will visit three locations: Alicante, Spain for pre-WYD activities with the Assumption Family; Fatima, Portugal for a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima; and to Lisbon for World Youth Day with Pope Francis.
ADDITIONAL/OPTIONAL PILGRIMAGE LOCATIONS
For some, the journey will continue with two more locations. In Paris, France we will trace the footsteps of Ven. Emmanuel d’Alzon and Saint Marie-Eugenie. In Lourdes, France we will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Assumptionist pilgrimages.
“
official theme of world youth day 2023
«Mary arose and went with haste»
(Luke 1:39)
Get Involved
register as a pilgrim
You may register as a pilgrim if you are between 17 to 35 years old. There will be many prayer opportunities, catechesis, cultural celebrations, local city tours, solidarity projects, and events with Pope Francis.
Volunteer opportunities
Whether you are a religious sister, brother, priest, or laity— you can be a volunteer. Some of the tasks include liturgical animation, catechetical instruction or facilitation, logistical support, etc.
Make a Donation
Your financial help will go a long way in helping us with the costs of organizing youth catechetical events and granting scholarships to pilgrims who won’t be able to afford this journey due to financial hardship.