Denver, United States (1993)

Date: 10-15 August 1993

Pontificate: John Paul II

Theme:  “I came that they might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10)

Song: One body

A very significant tradition first took place at this WYD. This was the Stations of the Cross passing through the streets of a major metropolitan city. It was a powerful testimony that conveyed a concrete, public and visible sign of faith by the young people present in Denver. The pope’s message for this WYD spoke of how human existence can have its moments of crisis and gloom and that this can affect young people. They should know that “Jesus came to provide the ultimate answer to the yearning for life and the infinite which his Heavenly Father had poured into our hearts when he created us”.  In his homily in Denver, the pope said, “the eighth World Youth Day is a celebration of Life. This gathering has been an opportunity for serious reflection on the words of Jesus Christ: ‘I came that they may have life, and have it to the full’ (John 10:10). The pope went on to say, “you, young pilgrims, have also shown that you understand that Christ’s gift of Life is not for you alone. You have become more conscious of your vocation and mission in the Church and in the world”.

All of the Holy Father’s speeches in Denver: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/travels/1993/travels/documents/trav_america-1993.html

Summary based on the data sheet published by frontierarieti.com, organ of the Diocese of Rieti.