August 17, 2011 – Aside from the main events, World Youth day has a tradition of holding various local Catechetical events and Cultural programs dedicated to the three consecutive days within the week long celebration. Cathechetical events are organized and clustered together according to languages and are assigned to a specific location depending on the number of Pilgrims represented by that language. Large delegation can be assigned to a bigger venue while small delegation speaking a specific language will be assigned to a smaller and modest venue. So what happens with the Catechetical events? Usually there would be talks, retreats and reflections to be facilitated by the chosen speaker. The chosen speaker is usually a prelate speaking that language – it could be a bishop, an archbishop or a cardinal. Remember that Bishops’ main function of office is to teach. But there are times that nus or lay individuals are also assigned to speak in that particular Catechesis.

The Catechesis are mostly done in closed areas and spaces, preferably with roof where Mass can be held every after session or before the session depending on the schedule and structure of that particular world youth day. Some catechetical events are done on open areas as long as the altar / stage  has a roof where mass can be celebrated underneath. Aside from talks there are also singing, dancing and some group dynamics or unfreezers that will keep the pilgrims invigorated including sharing sessions and brainstorming among pilgrims. There could also be testimonials coming from the pilgrims depending on the structure of the program. Topics discussed by speakers in the catechesis are mostly about spiritual growth, christian living, social awareness and doctrinal treatises. Catechetical programs are powerful tools which pilgrims could take advantage of for their spiritual growth and maturity. It is a retreat and recollection for free.

One of the best results of WYD 2011′s Catechesis in terms of Group dynamics is that it was able to bring together pilgrims from countries experiencing political conflicts with each other. Like in one Catechetical site, the organizers were able to bring together pilgrim delagates from Jordan, Palestine, Israel and Iraq, countries often disturbed by war and conflicts.

This is one of the reasons why world youth day is the best: You have retreats, parties, games, entertainment and worship rolled into one.

Below are the photos of the different Catechetical events which happened all over Madrid on the first day of the three day Catechesis and on Day 2 of World Youth Day 2011

CATECHESIS FOR ARABIC SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Church of the City of Los Angeles

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CATECHESIS FOR ARABIC SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Parish of San Jeronimo

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CATECHESIS FOR ITALIAN SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: IFEMA Expo Center

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CATECHESIS FOR JAPANESE SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Parish of St. peter, Martyr

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CATECHESIS FOR FRENCH SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: IFEMA Pavillion of Congress

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CATECHESIS FOR FRENCH SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Church of our Lady of providence and Saint Cayetano

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CATECHESIS FOR FRENCH SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Church of Santa Maria Del Pinar

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CATECHESIS FOR PORTUGUESE SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Parish of San sebastian

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CATECHESIS FOR ENGLISH SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Palacio de los Deportes

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CATECHESIS FOR ENGLISH SPEAKING PILGRIMS
Catechetical Site: Palacio de Vistalegre

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