Sister Marie, 34 who has come to help with the event from Hanover, Michigan in the US, says there is a void that will be filled and believes Australia is also ready for such an event.
“The atmosphere in Australia is different to other World Youth Days,” said Sister Marie.
“There is barrenness here. I see the loneliness, the hunger for love, all searching, albeit, some in the wrong place.
“My sense is that it is not only for the youth, but for the country,” she added.
Sister Marie is just one of over 200,000 registered overseas pilgrims that have descended on the harbour city to participate in the 23rd World Youth Day.
Pope Makes Appearance
Pope Benedict XVI, who arrived in Australia from Italy on Sunday July 13, is the main attraction.
It is the first time he has visited the Pacific region, and the 10-day sojourn down south will constitute his longest trip anywhere from Rome to date.
During his eight-day stay in Australia, the 81-year-old pontiff will attend private functions with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, NSW Premier Morris Iemma, the Governor General, representatives of other faiths and a contingent of Australian bishops, but his primary focus will be to rally young Catholics.
“Many young people today lack hope,” said Pope Benedict XVI in a message at the start of his trip.
“They are perplexed by the questions that present themselves ever more urgently in a confusing world and they are often uncertain which way to turn for answers hey see poverty and injustice, and they long to find solutions. They are challenged by the arguments of those who deny the existence of God and they wonder how to respond,” he added.
