Malaysian pilgrims prepare for World Youth Day Krakow 2016

Aug 19, 2015

KUALA LUMPUR (Herald Malaysia): The one year countdown to World Youth Day 2016 has begun. For Malaysia, the diocese named to coordinate national efforts is Melaka-Johor, and the key person is Youth Minister Matthew Wee (+60.16.66.11.399 or [email protected]). The new Regional Episcopal Bishop in Charge of Youth, Archbishop Julian Leow of Kuala Lumpur, has confirmed his participation for Krakow 2016 making history as the first bishop from Malaysia who will be accompanying the Malaysian Pilgrims to gather with the Universal Church. His Grace has called on all Malaysians of the nine dioceses to unite and go as one contingent.

Online registrations are now open and Malaysia has already registered as a group. A unique feature of this year’s registration process is the ability to create sub-groups. Each diocese will, therefore, register themselves as sub-group(s). We hope that this will facilitate the Malaysians being together for accommodation and major events at WYD such as Opening Mass, Welcome of the Pope, Stations of the Cross and the Vigil-Closing Mass. Participants and dioceses will have to register separately for Days in the Diocese and other Pre-WYD programmes. The Malaysian group plans to make payment to the World Youth Day organisers by Dec 1st, 2015. As such, pilgrims are asked to settle their registration fees with their parish or diocese groups before said date.

The Youth Office of Kuala Lumpur (ASAYO) will assist, if there is a need, for visas. A series of spiritual formations will be crucial as preparations for WYD, culminating with a send-off Mass just prior to the World Youth Day. Please contact your respective Arch/Diocesan Youth Offices for further details and updates. More details will be disclosed as the days draw closer.