Madrid, Spain. The days are approaching when the Claretian Family, marking World Youth Day convoked by Benedict XVI, will celebrate the Worldwide Encounter of Youth in Madrid, in tune with its missionary charism.

Youth of good will from all over the world are invited to World Youth Day which will be celebrated this August 15 – 21 in Madrid; youth of all religions who wish to share in these days of prayer, joy, and solidarity. The Claretian Family has been involved in preparation this ecclesial event since the beginning.

Prior to its participation in World Youth Day they will have an “Initial Encounter” in Segovia from August 12 – 15; and another, afterwards, in Madrid, from August 21 – 23, to gather together “as Family” to share their experiences of these days, and to propose various lines of actions for the future.

The Claretian Family foresees offering assistance to the thousands of participants with an average age of 16 – 25 years. Present throughout these days will be Fr. Josep M. Abella, Superior General of the Claretians, the new Superior General of the Claretian Sisters – who just before World Youth Day will celebrate their General Chapter, Maria del Mar Álvarez, General Director of the Cordimarian Filiation, and Constantino Rodríguez, General Secretary of the Lay Claretians.

This Encounter is seen as a great opportunity to deepen our mutual understanding as a charismatic family. “Because we wish to have an encounter with Christ. Because we wish to strengthen our faith. Because we wish to feel like part of the Church and a family with others. Because the dream of God in Claret continues among the youth. Because we wish to live in mission and in solidarity, being His witness to the world…” as it is stated in the program..