Which countries can apply on the website to animate catechesis?

Australia, New Zealand and other English speaking Countries of Oceania only.

How do we apply to animate catechesis?

1. Submit a group application to WYD2008 - closing date of 11 February 2008
2. WYD2008 will review written applications
3. Interviews conducted
4. Recommendations approved
5. Notification of appointments, or otherwise, in writing (February 2008 at the latest)
6. One day training workshops for Australians and New Zealanders (March and April 2008)
7. Final briefing (15 July 2008)

How many people are needed in an animating team?

1. Leader
2. MC
3. Musicians including singers/choir
4. Readers for Mass
5. Servers for Mass
6. Other team members who will give testimonies, present dramas or sketches, etc

Therefore minimum size of the animating team would be 5 or 6. For bigger teams more roles will be specified and additional leaders may be required.
The animating teams are not solely responsible for coordinating the entire event. Other staff will be appointed from the operations team to manage the physical set up of the venue; catering staff will coordinate lunch; and a sacristan (appointed through the Liturgy department) will assist with the liturgical components.

Do we have to register as pilgrims?

Yes - animation of catechesis is a service for pilgrims by fellow pilgrims

Do we have to pay for registration?

Yes - just like any other pilgrim

How many languages will be present at each catechesis venue?

In general catechesis sites will have only one language. There may be some limited exceptions.

Can we choose which Bishops we want to work with?

You can make a request however the appointment of bishops is by the Pontifical Council for the Laity (PCL)

Can we choose which pilgrim groups we want to serve, particularly our own group?

Generally it is anticipated that animating teams serve their own groups. There may be some exceptions.

How do we get our musical instruments there?

You will need to bring them as part of your luggage

I have never animated catechesis at a World Youth Day - can I still apply?

Of course - you are very welcome to get involved, provided that you have the necessary basic skills and attitudes and participate in the training program. The application process will help assess this.

When will I find out whether our team has been appointed to animate catechesis?

We plan to process applications as they are received and then notify you as soon as possible. It is our goal that every applicant will be notified by March 2008.

What materials and information will the WYD2008 team give us to help prepare to animate catechesis?

We will send you training materials, and if you live in Australia or New Zealand we will provide training workshops. We will also supply the themes for each day when they are released to us by the PCL and a host of practical information.

By which date do we need to arrive in Sydney?

You will need to attend the final briefing on Tuesday 15 July 2008; therefore we recommend that you arrive in Sydney by Monday 14 July at the latest.

Why do I have to provide my Pilgrim Group Number when making application?

The contact person must be registered at the time of application to assist with the IT systems managing this process. All animating team members will have to be registered as pilgrims by the time that the team is appointed; otherwise the appointment cannot be confirmed.

Who can I talk to about animation of catechesis?

You can learn more about animation of catechesis on the website or by Emailing catechesis@wyd2008.org