PANAMA CITY, Panama – At World Youth Day Thursday, Pope Francis told the bishops of Central America to be close to the people, and to let their wounds and suffering be the drive behind the bishops’ actions and priorities.

PANAMA CITY, Panama – Panama's geographical position as a bridge between land and ocean is symbolic of its ability to broker peace and hope in an area marked by violence and conflict, Pope Francis said.

PANAMA CITY — Esther Carmona Wagner’s heart was pounding out of her chest just before she took the stage at Anita Villalaz Theatre on Jan. 23. She even tried to ask for a chair because she was afraid her knees would buckle when she went on.

ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT TO PANAMA – While speaking to a journalist aboard his flight to Panama, Pope Francis confirmed that he will visit Japan this year.

PANAMA CITY – If there was a common denominator, aside from the Christian faith, that united most pilgrims heading to the opening Mass for World Youth Day 2019 in Panama, it was that each person, in his or her own way, faced a challenge back home.

Wow! Waking up in Panama was a real joy!

PANAMA CITY – Jorge Soto wore a wrestling mask typical of Lucha Libre fighters in Mexico and every few steps he took, others would sidle up to have a picture taken with him. The mask was fun to wear, and it was something associated with his native country, which he was proud to represent at 2019 World Youth Day in Panama, he said.

We are united in the name of the Lord.

VATICAN – Pope Francis launched an app Sunday called “Click to Pray,” which connects Catholics to a global network to share prayer intentions via their smartphones.

As much as I want to travel light for this pilgrimage, I'm letting myself bring one book to World Youth Day – St. Louis de Montfort's True Devotion to Mary.

When 27-year-old David Figueroa found out this year’s World Youth Day was going to be hosted in Panama, so close to his home country of Colombia, he was more than excited to be a part of the event. 

I can’t stand it when someone says, “I believe in Jesus, not people.” 

PANAMA CITY 

Panama City will be packed during World Youth Day, especially along the “Cinta Costera,” where most events will be held.

Myriam Guevara Mann still remembers looking out to a crowd of 800,000 people before she danced the biggest show of her life. 

José Murillo is the only one in his family who hasn’t been back to Panama City since they immigrated to Canada about 12 years ago.