(ANS – León) – Less than a month from the visit of Benedict XVI to Mexico, as the work of organisation continues, already a festive atmosphere can be perceived in various parts of the country, in particular in the State of Guanajuato. The human factor is one of the most important elements in an event like this and therefore the preparation of the young  volunteers has been one of the priorities in the archdiocese of León.

At the Mass at which the Pope will preside at the foot of the Monte Cristo Rey, in Silao, 25,000 volunteers will  be needed. To achieve this the Dioceses of Queretaro, Irapuato, Celaya and León have been involved in gathering together young people ready to undertake this service.

Among the parishes in León the Church of  Saint John Bosco will provide 224 volunteers. “More than a reason for pride, given that we are the largest group among the volunteers, it is a commitment of the Salesian Family to the Church, because we want to ensure the human, Christian and Salesian formation of our young people.” Says Juanita Silva, a Salesian-Cooperator, who leads the Salesian Youth Movement of the “Don Bosco” Oratory in León.

The motto chosen for the young volunteers from the Salesian oratory has been that expression of Don Bosco: “No effort should be spared when the Church and the Papacy are at stake.” To the appeal all the young people from the  school, parish and oratory have responded as well as a group of the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM). To prepare themselves, every Sunday they meet in the chapel,  have a catechetical course, spend time together and are given information by the organising committee. A Facebook page has also been opened on the Pastoral Visit of Benedict XVI.

The number of volunteers for the Mass in the Bicentenary Park has already been reached but there is still an appeal for some to  “cover” the travels of the “popemobile” in the city of León.

Benedict XVI will be making his first visit to Mexico between  23 and 26 March.

Published 06/03/2012