Paul Keenan
Pope Francis has announced the themes for the next three World Youth Day (WYD) events, including that in 2016 in Krakow, Poland.
For the 29th World Youth Day, 2014, the theme is ìBlessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heavenî (Mt 5:3), for the 30th World Youth Day, 2015, it is ìBlessed are the pure in heart, for they will see Godî (Mt 5:8), while for Krakow, the 31st World Youth Day, 2016, it is ìBlessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercyî (Mt 5:7).
Taken from the Gospel Beatitudes, the Pontiff’s choice of themes stems from his appeal to youth during WYD in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to read the Beatitudes.
