US bishop thanks Mgr Américo Aguiar
D. Edward J. Burns, Bishop of Dallas, sent a letter to Bishop Américo Aguiar to thank him, on behalf of the North American Bishops, for organising World Youth Day (WYD) Lisbon 2023 and for the way in which the young people from the United States of America (USA) were received in Portugal.
Read the full letter here:
"'Obrigado not only conveys a sense of gratitude for what we have received but also the desire to give in return.' – Pope Francis, Angelus Message, August 6, 2023
Your Excellency,
As we return from World Youth Day enlivened with joy from the many encounters with Christ and the young people in Lisbon, on behalf of the bishops of the United States, I express my greatest gratitude to you for your leadership of World Youth Day 2023 and, along with Cardinal Emeritus Clemente, for your warm hospitality to the Patriarchate of Lisbon. Your great work in leading the WYD efforts made the experience in Lisbon a most memorable one!
It was encouraging to witness the presence and support of the of the Church in Portugal during this key moment in the life of the universal Church. Your presence and generous spirit have helped to ensure that this year’s WYD will continue to live up to the dream of its patron and founder, St. John Paul II.
Please know of my own prayers for you as you – like me – continue to unpack the many graces which God has bestowed on us and our pilgrims, as well as the fruits that WYD offers the worldwide Catholic community. May this rejuvenation of faith be a blessing for your country and for the Church’s pastoral ministries with youth and young adults around the globe.
With continued prayers, in unity with the Holy Father, the successor of St. Peter, for you and for young people around the world, I remain
Fraternally yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Edward J. Burns
Bishop of Dallas
Episcopal Liaison for World Youth Day"