Informed of the arrival of the symbols of the World Youth Day (WYD), the Cross and the Icon of the Virgin, in Australia on July 1st, Benedict XVI sent a message to card. Gorge Pell, archbishop of Sidney, and to the President of the Australian Bishops, mgr. Philip Wilson, which the organising committee of the Sidney WYD (15-20 July 2008) published on the official website of the WYD, www.wyd2008.org, yesterday. The message, signed by the Secretary of State, card. Tarcisio Bertone, says that the Pope "warmly greets the many young Australians who have convened to welcome these two holy symbols after their pilgrimage through many Pacific countries". The handing over of the Cross, comments the Pontiff, "has become a tradition to be experienced with deep faith, like a walk of conversion, following in Jesus’ footsteps". This is why Benedict XVI says he is convinced that, "increasingly driven by Christ, the young Australians will grow in the love of His Church, strengthening their commitment to their parishes by adhering to the ecclesial mission of witnessing the Gospel through their deeds, their words and a persuasive testimony of Christian life".
