Greeting to the youth of the communities of Italy 2/24/2002

S. John Paul II

St. Peter’s Square, February 24, 2002

«See you in Toronto.». With these words, spoken at the end of the Marian prayer, John Paul II renewed the invitation to the new generations to participate in the XVII World Youth Day that will take place in Canada. The invitation was addressed to thousands of young people belonging to the Neocatechumenal Communities of the parishes and dioceses of all Italy present in St. Peter’s Square in the “Angelus” on Sunday 24. These are the Pope’s words:

«I greet with special affection the very numerous young people belonging to the Neocatechumenal Communities of parishes and dioceses throughout Italy. Dear ones, you are “on the way” towards the World Youth Day that It will take place in Toronto next July. Be young on the way with Chirst. I thank you because, with your presence, you offer me the opportunity to renew the invitation to your contemporaries, Italians and from other countries of the world, to prepare eagerly for this important appointment. Be ready to give reason in every circumnstance, with humility and respect, of the hope that is in you. Thank you for the visit and see you in Toronto! ».