Six teams of pilgrims from around New Zealand are preparing intensely for their special role at World Youth Day (WYD) in Sydney next month.  The “Animation of Catechesis” teams, as the name suggests, will guide pilgrims at the daily Catechesis (teaching) sessions at WYD.

Their task is to welcome, enthuse, inspire and co-ordinate the experience for large audiences from around the world.  The Catechesis sessions include prayer, song, teaching, questions and discussion. 

From Christchurch, Wellington (pictured), Auckland and Palmerston North, the six teams include musicians, MCs, and dancers who will be assigned to one of 250 Catechesis venues around Sydney, and will cater to audiences numbering in the hundreds. 

Debra Archer of the Christchurch team describes the opportunity to participate in an Animation of Catechesis Team as “a privilege”.

“It's about savouring a worldwide opportunity to receive and to give simultaneously,” says Rachel Chin, a member of the Auckland team from St Mark’s and Our Lady Star of the Sea Youth Group.