date: 02.08.2018.
Medjugorje in these days is all about the youth again, as the 29th International Prayer Encounter of the Youth (Youth Festival) started, this year held with the theme “Living on the Word of God”. The official beginning was on Wednesday, August 1, with the Holy Mass at the White Dome. The priests entered in a solemn procession with the song Hosana, performed by the International Choir and Orchestra. The procession was with the Apostolic Nuncio to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mons. Luigi Pezzuto, the Apostolic Visitor for the parish of Medjugorje, Archbishop Henryk Hoser, the Provincial of Herzegovina Franciscan Province Fr. Miljenko Šteko and Definitor General of the Franciscan Order, Fr. Ivan Sesar.
Fr. Marinko Šakota, the parish priest, welcomed the youth and the representatives of 72 countries came in front of the altar carrying signs of their countries and national flags, bowed down before the altar and silently walked away.
Solemn Holy Mass and homily was given by Mons. Luigi Pezzuto, the Apostolic Nuncio to Bosnia and Herzegovina, with 472 priests concelebrating. After the Holy Mass, the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament followed.
Last night’s programme was followed through live streaming by 975 700 viewers. The Youth Festival is simultaneously translated to 17 languages and Radio Mir Medjugorje will continue to broadcast the programme in the following days too. (photos)
