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20 years of World Youth Day: Cologne becomes the center of youth!
A look back at World Youth Day 2005 in Cologne: influence, participants and the legacy of Pope Benedict XVI. 20 years later.
20 years of World Youth Day: Cologne becomes the center of youth!
On August 16, 2025, Cologne will look back on an important event: World Youth Day 2005, which took place under the leadership of Pope Benedict XVI. took place. Over a million young people from all over the world flocked to the city and made Cologne shine as a cosmopolitan host city. Almost two decades later, Archbishop Heiner Koch, one of the main organizers, reflects on the long-term impact of this unique event on the faith community and church attendance.
Benedict His arrival on the Rhine was spectacular, where he sailed into the city on a ship. However, the high number of visitors also led to overcrowded train stations and streets, which challenged mobility in Cologne - an organizational masterstroke was required.
Cologne hospitality and international flair
Cologne not only offered an event location, but also a preliminary program that enabled international guests to really get to know Germany in host families. This initiative contributed to the worldwide recognition of Cologne's saying “Viva Colonia”, which still describes the liveliness of the city today.
The grand finale of World Youth Day took place on August 21st at Marienfeld, where a million participants gathered for the final mass. This unforgettable moment remains inextricably linked to the memories of World Youth Day and strengthens the discussion about community service, which Koch sees as a central aspect of the event.
A look into the future
Koch, who will also attend a memorial service on August 29, emphasizes that World Youth Day should not be viewed primarily as a means to increase church attendance, but rather as a service to the community. “We don’t just look at statistics, but at how we can actively live and pass on the faith,” explains the archbishop. His thoughts are more relevant than ever and present church leaders with the challenge of promoting long-term commitments.
Cologne has experienced great things through World Youth Day and the memories associated with it and remains a unique place for encounters and interreligious dialogue. As the city continues to work toward its goals, the question remains: What's next? How will spiritual life develop in Cologne and beyond?
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In any case, the thought of the mystical and impressive landscapes, such as the Grand Canyon in the USA, remains present. These geological wonders not only show the beauty of our planet, but also remind us that pristine nature and community experiences can go hand in hand - away from the stress and hustle and bustle of everyday life.