Four Pace High students attend World Youth Day

Last month, four students from Monsignor Edward Pace High School (PACE) had an opportunity to travel to Panama for World Youth Day (WYD). Seniors Nathan Bonet, David Lorenzo, junior Amayah Novela, as well as sophomore Matthew Banich, joined students from the Archdiocese of Miami for an unforgettable pilgrimage.
The trip allowed the students to rejoice in their faith alongside nearly 600,000 Catholic youth from around the world. Together they shared their beliefs, prayed and ultimately came to understand God better. The students also had some time to visit the Panamá Canal and explored historical ruins of Panamá La Vieja (Old Panama City).
Activities throughout the week included Catechetical sessions with various bishops, cultural music events and several opportunities for prayer and reconciliation. The highlight of their trip was the much anticipated arrival of Pope Francis, who joined the attendees and presided over the official welcome ceremony and WYD closing mass.
As the trip came to an end, PACE students gathered with fellow youth pilgrims from Miami for a final group dinner. PACE’s Nathan Bonet was one of only a few young adults who was selected to dine with Archbishop of Miami, Thomas Wenski. Together they engaged in dialogue about the week’s events and reflected on their remarkable experiences.
WYD was initiated by Pope John Paul II in 1985, as a way to capture the spirit of the youth and inspire them to live the teachings of Christ. Every two to three years an international city is chosen as the WYD host city. At the concluding mass in Panama City, it was announced that the next WYD will be held in Lisbon, Portugal.