All told, the Chilean delegation is officially 2,203 people, but more than 4,000 Chilenos will attend the event. Today, more than 1,000 people attended the sending event. Archbishop Ricardo Ezzati spoke during morning prayer. At mass, Bishop Cristian Contreras presided and preached. Bishop Contreras will travel to Spain as part of the Chilean delegation.
At the sending, each pilgrim was given a packet with a cap, a shirt, a Chilean flag, a rosary, and instructive materials for the journey. The above image is as the objects were blessed at the end of mass.
Hosting the event at the Shrine of St. Alberto Hurtado was a rich gesture. First, as a youth (during high school and college), Alberto volunteered at my parish and school in the library and office. St. Alberto Hurtado became known as a champion for the poor and youth. He founded the Hogar de Cristo, and his shrine and grave are at the site of a homeless shelter he founded. He also was a charismatic leader of youth. Today, we remembered that heritage. At one point, each group within the Chilean delegation spent some time in prayer in the chapel where St. Alberto Hurtado is buried.
Finally, I loved Archbishop Ezzati's remarks, perhaps especially because they echo what I have been telling the young people. This is not tourism; this is pilgrimage. He spoke powerfully to the hearts of the young people from his heart. Hopefully, the Jornada Mundial de Jovenes is a powerful event in the lives of these young people next month, and, hopefully, it proves to be something powerful in the life of the Chilean Church.
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| Archbishop Ricardo Ezzati |
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| Bishop Contreras and pilgrims. |
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