Zagreb, Croatia, Jun 4, 2011 / 14:12 pm
“If you are rooted in Christ, you will fully become the person you are meant to be,” the Pope told over 50,000 youngsters at a prayer vigil in Zagreb’s Ban Josip Jalacic Square.
Pope Benedict also challenged the young people. “The Lord Jesus is not a Teacher who deceives his disciples: he tells us clearly that walking by his side calls for commitment and personal sacrifice, but it is worth the effort!”
The Pope was greeted in rock star like fashion by crowds waving both Croatian and Vatican flags. Very noticeable among the crowd were scores of young priests and nuns.
Although the event often had the feel of a rally, it was also interspersed with periods of silent prayer. It included personal testimonies, Scripture readings and a musical accompaniment which ranged from the traditional Croat to contemporary hymns.