Like what the Bishops said a few months ago, WYD 2013 organizers in Rio de Janeiro have less than two years before the event takes place again in 2013. That’s why organizers in Rio are not wasting time and immediately launched the competition for the official anthem of World Youth Day 2013. The official theme songs of the world youth days are always based on the the given theme for that particular world youth day chosen by the Holy father. The selection of the official theme song is done by announcing a contest so that many composers and young musicians can participate and interpret the message of the world youth day through the song. The song is then selected and announced as an official theme song. Throughout the five or six days of world youth day, the them song is sung repeatedly, mostly in major events, not only to facilitate dynamics and activity among the pilgrims but also to break the barriers among nationalities. WYD 2013 Rio De Janeiro organizers are expected to select the finalist after January 31, 2012 and send them to Vatican for the final selection. The winning anthem will be announced on March 1, 2012. The competition is open only to Brazilians. Other nationalities are barred from joining the contest. This is done so that the song will come out from the heart of the host country or diocese.

Speaking of songs, the WYD 2013 Rio de Janeiro organizers and bishops in cooperation with music producers also launched their first ever WYD CD. The CD aims to kick-start the preparation for the WYD 2013. The album is entitled “In my heart I carry a cross” which contains 13 tracks, all of which are inspirational and spiritual songs. The collection has musical styles from different parts of Brazil. It includes classics like samba and bossa nova, showcased by 80 different musicians. The CD is planned to be followed by two others. The second will have 12 songs that helped shape the history of World Youth Days and the third will have unreleased tracks for World Youth Day 2013 in Rio de Janeiro.