Youth Office Events
In the Footsteps of the Canadian Martyrs Annual Walking Pilgrimage
An annual tradition in the Diocese of Peterborough sees youth walking over 130 KM from Powassan to Britt as a way to recreate the route the Canadian Martyrs would have taken along the French River. Over 100 youth take part in a challenging yet joyful journey across the northernmost edge of the diocese. Beginning at St. Joseph’s Parish in Powassan, they travel along rural walkways and conclude at Holy Family Parish in Britt, located near Recollet Falls, where they venerate the relics of the Holy Canadian Martyrs. Accommodations are sleeping in tents; daily Mass is held outside in the beautiful nature, and lifelong friendships are made.
TO REGISTER, click to send an email to Fr. Stephen DeCarlo.
Way of the Cross
A testimony from an actor in the Way of the Cross:
“It was an experience that deeply touched me and one that I will cherish for a lifetime. Through portraying the role of a Woman of Jerusalem, I felt a deep connection to the emotions and experiences of those who witnessed the crucifixion of our Lord. Morning it was -3 so cold and I deeply prayed to Jesus to give us a hot sun as we were literally shivering under our costumes. When the walk of Jesus started from the Cathedral we all experienced the hot Sun which actually made me cry in tears, He does listen to us! It has been a journey of spiritual growth and reflection, allowing me to contemplate the significance of Christ’s sacrifice in a profoundly personal way.”
World Youth Days
World Youth Day (WYD) is a massive international festival and pilgrimage for young people aged 16 to 35, organized by the Catholic Church. Established by Pope John Paul II in December 1985, it aims to share the Gospel message, foster cultural exchange, and strengthen Christian faith.History and OriginsIn 1984, Pope John Paul II invited youth to Rome for an international gathering on Palm Sunday during the Youth Jubilee. Over 300,000 young people attended, far exceeding expectations. In 1985, following another massive youth gathering aligning with the United Nations International Youth Year, the Pope officially instituted World Youth Day.The International World Youth Day Event ScheduleThe major international events attract anywhere from 500,000 to over 4 million young pilgrims. The week-long celebration features a structured itinerary:
- Days 1–3 (Catechesis & Culture): Youth participate in morning prayer and catechism (faith teaching) sessions led by bishops from around the world. Afternoons feature musical performances, dance, and cultural sharing.
- Day 4 (The Pope’s Welcome): The host city erupts as the Pope arrives for an official welcoming ceremony.
- Day 5 (Way of the Cross): Pilgrims take part in a massive, artistically choreographed reflection on the Stations of the Cross.
- Day 6 (The Vigil): Young adults trek to a massive open field to sleep under the stars. They spend the evening in a candlelit prayer vigil with the Pope.
- Day 7 (Closing Mass): The event culminates in a massive, televised Sunday Mass presided over by the Pope, who concludes the event by announcing the next host city.
Core Symbols
- The Pilgrim Cross: A large wooden cross given to young people by John Paul II in 1984. It continuously travels the globe between host cities.
- The Icon of Mary: An icon of Salus Populi Romani (Protectress of the Roman People) that travels alongside the cross as a symbol of maternal protection.
The international gathering is heading to Seoul, South Korea, in 2027 under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time the festival returns to East Asia in over three decades.
Click the link below to learn more: