SW News: On May 18, the names of 13 patrons of World Youth Day (WYD) 2023, who will act as the models of sanctity for the youth, were announced by Lisbon’s Patriarch, Cardinal Manuel Clemente, as preparations for the grand event are underway in the Portuguese capital. The new intercessors comprise Saints John Paul II, John Bosco, Vincent, Anthony of Padua, Bartholomew of the Martyrs and John de Brito apart from Bl. Joana of Portugal, Bl. João Fernandes, Bl. Maria Clara del Niño Jesus, Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, Bl. Marcel Callo, Bl. Chiara Badano, and Bl. Carlo Acutis.

The Portuguese prelate talked about the pastoral and spiritual importance of the preparation and celebration of the upcoming WYD. He also mentioned the main historical reference of each of the holy persons and explained how each of the patrons can make a contribution in the lives of young people. The Cardinal said, “Each in their own time, the Patrons of WYD Lisbon 2023 have shown that the life of Christ fills and saves young people of all times.”

According to the press release by the Patriarch of Lisbon, the “patroness par excellence” of the next World Youth Day is the Virgin Mary.

“The patron saints are all those who have dedicated themselves to the service of youth,” said the prelate in his statement.

The announcement came on the 122nd birth anniversary of the WYD founder - St John Paul II. WYD Lisbon 2023 will take place from August 1 through 6.

Typically celebrated every three years in a different country, WYD is an opportunity for young people around the world to have an encounter with the pope and also deepen their faith in Christ while experiencing the universality of the Catholic Church. The previous WYD was held in Panama City in 2019.