Leading New Zealand polititians, including Prime Minister Helen Clark, assure the 4000 young Kiwi pilgrims that they’re right behind them on their pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Sydney. Clark’s message, with others from National Party Leader John Key, ACT Party Leader Rodney Hide and Maori Party Co-Leader Dr Pita Sharples are online at YoungNZCatholics YouTube channel.

Reflecting on the pilgrimage to the “West Island,” Clark enthused “What an opportunity to be with young people all over the world. It’s a chance to focus on the big themes of our time, the importance of peace…sustainability...being good neighbours.”  Clark acknowledged the pilgrimage as one of the largest departures from New Zealand shores, wishing the pilgrims “the experience of a lifetime. Kia ora.”

Key highlighted the large numbers of pilgrims from nations worldwide, encouraging the Kiwi pilgrims to “use your faith to build even stronger connections for New Zealand…you go with our blessing.”

Sharples reminded them to “come back with hopes and aspirations for our country.  We need you. You are our leaders to be.  And we will be waiting for you to return with your messages and your stories. Tena koutou. God bless.”

Hide encouraged them to engage with pilgrims from many different nations, “to learn from each other, to build your faith and to make a world that is more peaceful and more prosperous.”

These messages can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/YoungNZCatholics.