World Youth Day

They came dancing, singing, praying, and hugging. More than a million young pilgrims from around the world united by their Catholic faith descended on Krakow, Poland July 25-31 for World Youth Day, and religious from NRVC were there to share the experience with them.

Members, board, and staff from NRVC and VISION were present in the Tauron Arena, which was re-named the Mercy Centre, for World Youth Day. NRVC and VISION were the sponsors of the Vocation Café, where religious were able to hold informal conversations in a relaxed setting, discussing whatever was on the minds of pilgrims. NRVC sponsored similar venues in Rio de Janeiro and Madrid.

"These young people desire to deepen their faith, and it is important for them to know that religious care and are willing to help them in their journey," said Brother Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C., NRVC's executive director, who attended, along with several NRVC board members, Sister Deborah Borneman, director of member relations and services, and Patrice Tuohy, executive editor of VISION Vocation Network.

The highlight was Pope Francis’ visit to the arena, where he thanked the thousands of volunteers who assisted with World Youth Day before he headed back to Rome.

The Mercy Centre, which took more than two years to plan, was a collaborative effort of the Knights of Columbus, Canadian Salt + Light TV, Holy Cross Family Ministries, and NRVC.

Be sure to check out the videos and photos on NRVC's Facebook page.