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	Tom Hollcraft Coordinator for Youth and Young Adult Ministries 510-267-8389 thollcraft@oakdiocese.org

Youth Ministry

International World Youth Day 2008

Official Site

September 2007

Dear Pastors, Youth Ministers, Confirmation Coordinators and DREs,

As you probably know, the next World Youth Day (WYD) will occur in Sydney, Australia. This pilgrimage experience is an excellent opportunity for the youth of Oakland to grow in their faith, encounter the diversity and beauty of the universal Church, and of course, be welcomed by our Holy Father.

Prior to WYD events (the first portion of the trip) the pilgrimage will include: visiting local sites of interest and shrines, participating in a tour of the Aboriginal Sacred Ritual Sites, and being introduced to youth from around the world. During the week of WYD events, we will be hosted by a parish from Australia. This means that the parish hosting our diocese will be providing us host homes to stay in during the events. It’s an incredible opportunity for the youth to spend time getting to know the people of Australia.

While this is a great opportunity for our young people, it’s not possible without the support and prayers of their parish community. I ask you: please promote this international event to the youth of your parish. The links below provide travel details, pilgrimage information, a sample payment schedule, a flyer, and registration forms. Please keep in mind as you promote this pilgrimage that those participating should be 16 years of age or older by the date of travel. (Note: See WYD Specifics - chaperone ratio)

Thank you for the work you are doing with the youth of your parish, and I look forward to working with you on this incredible adventure. Please be sure to take the time to promote World Youth Day to your parish. If you have any questions about this pilgrimage please contact me at 510-267-8389.

Sincerely,

Tom Hollcraft

Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Required Forms and Planning Resources

The following must be completed and returned to this office for each participant:

These resources are provided to aid individual parishes' preparations for this event, including advertising and collecting for the costs of the pilgrimage. They may be downloaded and edited for parish use (if applicable).