Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sep 4, 2012 / 15:37 pm
According to World Youth Day Rio organizers, less than 24 hours after registration for the event opened, some 220 groups from all parts of the globe have begun the process.
The very first pilgrim to sign up for the gathering was Pope Benedict XVI, who is planning to be in Rio to meet with the youth.
Sister Maria Shaiane, director of registration for World Youth Day 2013, told CNA that the event is "open to all people.
"Everyone can participate, and to do so they should register." While there is no age limit for World Youth Day volunteers, participants must be between the ages of 16 and 35.