Experience from Lisbon

World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 was indeed a great and unforgettable experience in my life. I thank God for His immense mercy that he showed us by giving this opportunity to be one with the youth of the world. I just thought what did I do to be part of this great event? It's clearly the Mercy of God. The pre- WYD that we participated in the Diocese of Leiria-Fatima prepared us to journey together with Mary in haste by visiting the places where the apparitions of her happened to the three children of Fatima. The catechesis proposed a journey of deepening in faith based on the verb to rise up helped us to live the week in a special way. The prayers on the theme of the day were a true guide. Meeting people who were gentle, good, generous, grace full, joyful and at times competitive and egoistic helped us to know we all need to grow. Above all the encouraging words of dear pope Francis filled our hearts with hope, courage and enthusiasm.  Amidst the tiresome journey the warm hospitality of the family that accommodated us at Tomar was an experience of that we are all one family. In spite of fatigue  there were moments we laughed together and lived intensely moments of joy and care for one another. Faith of the youth was extraordinary and heart touching. Looking at the youth Praying, singing, dancing in the streets heightened our spirit and gave us life. God exists and He love us was confirmed in this great event of the World Youth Day.