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 The challenge is staring right at you. If you don’t have roots, you will wither. Without a solid foundation, you can easily be swept away by the slightest breeze. It is why “Rooted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith,” a motto chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for World Youth Day 2011, is both appropriate and appealing.

World Youth Day (WYD) will be held next year in the historic city of Madrid, Spain from August 15-21, and millions of young people, families, organizations, congregations, and movements from all over the world will gather for several days of catechesis, reflection, and liturgy with Pope Benedict XVI, bishops, and priests.

Although the event is still several months away, preparations have been underway for quite some time. For many months, Madrid has been the center of vigils and prayers, and the Youth Pilgrim Cross is now making its way throughout the dioceses of Spain. On Tuesday, August 16, 2011, the first Mass will be celebrated in Madrid´s Cibeles Square, presided over by the archbishop of Madrid and concelebrated by the bishops and priests participating in WYD. Youth festivals including concerts, exhibits, and guided tours of the city are also planned.

The Holy Father will be welcomed on Thursday in the famous 18th century square with fountains that has become the symbol of Madrid and Sunday, the Pope concelebrates Mass with thousands of bishops and priests, closing WYD 2011 by sending the faithful out to the world to be witness to their faith, just as the Lord did with his apostles.

WYD’s website has also become an important resource for information and WYD videos. The site is available in English, Spanish, French, Polish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic, and Chinese.  www.jmj2011madrid.com