Theme of World Youth day 2013 in Rio

Zenit.org).- Youth who will gather in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for the international World Youth Day of 2013 will reflect on the theme

"Go and Make Disciples of All Nations."

Benedict XVI announced the theme for the next WYD at the end of yesterday's general audience. The audience was dedicated to an evaluation of the 26th WYD held last week in Madrid.

The theme for Rio '13 is taken from Matthew 28:19.

Rio's WYD will be held from July 23-28, 2013, reported L'Osservatore Romano.

The theme chosen by the Pope stresses the missionary character of the next WYD, an element already highlighted by Archbishop Orani João Tempesta of Rio de Janeiro, during a press conference in Madrid on Sunday.

The Holy Father also announced the theme for next year's diocesan-level WYD, traditionally held on Palm Sunday. The 2012 theme will be taken from Philippians 4:4:

"Rejoice in the Lord Always!"

Benedict XVI asked today that the faithful already begin to pray for these events