Over 5,000 people joined in the celebrations at Nathan Phillips Square on Saturday July 28, 2001, to help Toronto and the world countdown to World Youth Day (WYD) 2002. "The clock is ticking until the invasion of young people begins next July!" said Father Thomas Rosica, CEO of WYD 2002.
With one year left before the youth conference and its estimated 500,000 delegates arrive in our city, the anticipation and energy is high as youth from across Canada and around the world - as far away as Argentina, France and Scotland - traveled to Toronto for a taste of 2002.
A performance by Canada's LEAHY kicked-off the festivities, captivating the audience with their unique blend of Celtic music and dance. Mayor Mel Lastman lent Toronto's support and enthusiasm to the event, alongside City Councillors Chris Korwin Kuczynski, Gloria Lindsay Luby, Joe Mihevc, Frances Nunziata and Sherene Shaw. Music mixed with song and dance continued throughout the evening.
No doubt, one of the highlights of the countdown celebration was an appearance by Justin Trudeau, inspiring and empowering the youth in the audience. "Today's young people... we are the flavour, the combustible element and the light of hope..."

To conclude the celebration, a candlelight vigil focusing on the theme for WYD 2002 - you are the salt of the earth, you are the light of the world - was also an invitation to the world to come to Toronto, a city made for World Youth Day.

"Toronto's rich cultural diversity will provide the perfect backdrop for WYD 2002," said Mayor Mel Lastman. "I can hardly wait to welcome young people from around the world to our great city. When delegates arrive here next summer, I know they're going to feel right at home."

listen to Countdown celebration in realaudio
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see Countdown photo gallery