Archdiocese of Sydney launches pilgrimage to World Youth Day Seoul

The Archdiocese of Sydney launched its pilgrimage to World Youth Day Seoul on 20 September to prepare young Catholics from parishes, schools, university chaplaincies, and local communities for the 2027 event. The launch included a Mass at St Patrick’s, Church Hill, celebrated by Fr Lewi Barakat, followed by a gathering at Jacksons on George.

Pilgrims can choose from three travel options: flying directly to South Korea, visiting Japan before the congress, or participating in a mission or immersion experience before the week-long celebration in Seoul. World Youth Day is scheduled to run from 3–8 August 2027.

Bishop Richard Umbers encouraged young Catholics to attend the gathering because of its proximity to Australia, expressing a desire for thousands of pilgrims to join the global event. Campbell Evans, the Sydney Catholic Youth team leader, said the event allows young people to journey in faith and experience the Church on a global scale. Seoul will host the first World Youth Day in Asia since 1995 and the first ever held in South Korea.