Fifteen Saint Mary’s students, staff, and alumni joined a crowd of more than 500,000 gathered in Panama City this past January for World Youth Day — an extraordinary emotional and faith-filled experience. Open to all young people, World Youth Day is an opportunity to experience the universality of the church and share in the hope of many who want to commit themselves to Jesus Christ. The week-long event is a unique way to deepen one’s faith through prayer and sacraments together with others from around the world who share the same interests and ambitions. This worldwide gathering is typically celebrated every three years in a different country. Each day was packed with festival programming and events, including encounters with Pope Francis. Read the full story, which includes thoughts from sophomore Brianna Jacobson and junior Kamila Kuchta.
Photo caption: The Saint Mary’s group poses in front of a statue of Saint John Baptist de La Salle at Colegio De La Salle, the Lasallian High School in Panama City.