On his arrival in Sydney (7 a.m) Benedict XVI addressed a videomessage to the people of Australia and to the young pilgrims. "I very much look forward to the days that I shall spend with you, and especially to the opportunities for prayer and reflection with young people from all over the world", said the Pope, declaring also his "appreciation to all those who have offered so much of their time, their resources and their prayers in support of this celebration", such as the governmental authorities, organizers of the events, sponsors. "Many of the young people have made great sacrifices in order to undertake the journey to Australia, and I pray that they will be rewarded abundantly", he added, expressing his thanks also to "the parishes, schools and host families". "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you: and you will be my witnesses" (Act 1:8). This is the theme of the Twenty-Third World Youth Day. How much our world needs a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit! There are still many who have not heard the Good News of Jesus Christ, while many others, for whatever reason, have not recognized in this Good News the saving truth that alone can satisfy the deepest longings of their hearts". (to be continued)
