Young people from Córdoba are preparing to attend meetings with Pope Leo XIV in Madrid, an event they hope will mark a significant turning point in their lives. The pilgrimage includes a vigil on Saturday and a Mass on Sunday, concluding with the return to the city on Sunday afternoon.
Paola Prieto García, a member of the parish of San Vicente Ferrer in Cañero, is one of the participants. She describes the opportunity as a way to respond to the Lord's call and hopes her faith will be strengthened. She previously attended the World Youth Day in Lisbon in 2023, an encounter that, she states, made her realize her mission to "spread the word of God throughout the world."
The diocese has organized over twenty buses to facilitate the pilgrims' travel. Before departing, many will attend an early Mass at the Cathedral of Córdoba. The shared hope is for personal transformation, "always for the better," as a result of the spiritual experience.
“"It is an opportunity to know that the Lord has called me and I can answer Him yes."
Another young person sharing this experience is Francisco Daniel Jiménez Prados, who recalls his participation in World Youth Day with Benedict XVI in 2011. He collaborates with the Gaudium Diocesan School and emphasizes the importance of living faith daily, despite challenges.
“"We young Christians lead normal lives and follow God. It is not easy, but it is worth it."
It is estimated that around 4,000 people from the diocese will join these events. The bishop of Córdoba, Jesús Fernández, received the young people this Thursday, encouraging them to return with spiritual renewal that will positively impact their lives.
