World Youth Day 2019 USA Leader Guides International Leader Guide | Page 39

respectful attitude so that they and others can The Mass will take place in Spanish, so pilgrims
encounter the Lord in prayer. should use their radio and headphones again if
they are not familiar with the Spanish language.
When the service is finished, most pilgrims
remain in the field and sleep under the stars. Be Since this is the celebration of the Eucharist, it
prepared for rain or flooding by sleeping in and is essential that pilgrims maintain a respectful
around (or under) protective covering. Pilgrims and reverent attitude throughout the liturgy.
may only get a few hours of sleep that night, The encounter with Christ in this Final Mass
but they should try their best to rest. They will concludes the experience at the mountaintop
need energy for the final Mass and the walk summit of World Youth Day; pilgrims should
back to the starting point. be open to hearing God’s voice as the disciples
did at the Transfiguration.
Sunday Closing Mass with the Pope
On Sunday morning (January 27), Pope Francis At the conclusion of Mass, the Holy Father
will preside at the WYD Closing Mass along the traditionally announces the location of the next
Cinta Costera in Panama City. Everyone in the World Youth Day. Many groups depart
host country, not only the WYD participants, is immediately following the final song; however,
welcome to attend the Closing Mass, so do not pilgrims are welcome to stay and eat their
be surprised if the little bit of open space near provided lunch in a leisurely fashion. The
your group is filled on Sunday morning. crowds may thin out while they eat, and
pilgrims may have an easier time getting back to
Encourage pilgrims to treat the new arrivals as the housing sites, whether by walking or using
guests and greet them with hospitality and public transportation, if they wait.
graciousness. The pope is anticipated to arrive
PACKING ESSENTIALS
before the Mass so that he can tour the open
field in the pope mobile. The roadways and
fences will be especially crowded. Be aware of Clothing and Shoes
your group’s equipment and belongings so that If your group will be staying the traditional
they are not trampled on by people seeking a length of WYD (Tuesday, January 22 through
better view of the Holy Father. Sunday, January 27), pilgrims should bring
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