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World Youth Day (or in short 'WYD') was initiated by Pope John Paul II in 1984.

Organised by the Catholic Church, WYD brings together young people from around the globe to celebrate and learn about their faith on a more regular basis.

WYD08 is the largest event Australia has ever hosted. It attracted over 125,000 international visitors from every corner of the planet - more than the 2000 Olympics.

WYD08 also marked the first visit of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to Australia.

The event is an invitation from the Pope to the youth of the world to celebrate their faith around a particular theme. It is celebrated on a diocesan level annually, and at a week-long international level every two to three years at different locations.

It is a major part of the upsurge in Catholic Youth Work in some countries over recent years. The Director of Catholic Youth Services for England and Wales has said of the event that it will have far-reaching effects, not restricted to those who attended.

Mike Hill was joined by Fiona Moffatt on Sunday morning, live from Sydney.

Fiona is the youth service manager from the Middlesbrough Diocese.

To listen to Mike talk to Fiona Moffat click on the links on the right.