Cologne, Germany, Aug 21, 2005 / 22:00 pm
At the end of the Pope’s homily, the appreciative crowd chanted “Benedetto.” The sun finally made its appearance at the beginning of the Eucharistic Prayer, and pilgrims began to remove some of the layers they had piled on against the cold.
At the end of the mass, Pope Benedict confirmed what many had already suspected—the next WYD will be held in Sydney, Australia, in 2008.
Thousands of young people remained in Marienfeld well after the Pope’s departure for a concert and to spend final moments with friends. Many others rushed out to catch trains and planes for their quick return home.
For the Pope’s full homily, go to: http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/document.php?n=95