With only one week to go - the "Olympic Torch" of World Youth Day reaches Parramatta as it makes its way through Sydney to the WYD08 Opening Mass.

A 3.8 metre Cross, accompanied by an Icon of Our Lady and an Indigenous Message Stick, has been travelling through greater Sydney since 1 July in a final pilgrimage to the largest event ever held in Australia.

Father Mark Podesta - Sydney's youngest priest and a WYD08 spokesperson - said he has marvelled at the passion and enthusiasm demonstrated by Sydneysiders who have walked with the Cross and Icon over the past week.

"The Cross has drawn people out of their homes and brought World Youth Day to their communities," said Father Mark.

"The 15 Day Walk is a wonderful symbol of the pilgrimage that many young people will make from all around the world when arriving in Sydney over the coming days."

Father Chris Ryan, who has managed the year-long journey of the Cross, Icon and Indigenous Message Stick, will lead a prayer-stop at Mona Park in Auburn tomorrow before the symbols arrive at St Patrick's Cathedral in Parramatta.

The Cross and Icon - the most tangible symbols of World Youth Day - were given to the youth of the world by Pope John Paul II over twenty years ago.

Since 1 July 2007 the symbols have been travelling around Australia visiting every diocese across the country.

From Parramatta, the Cross and Icon will make their way through Epping, Dural, Chatswood and North Sydney before resting at the University of Sydney on 14 July.

The full 15 Day Walk schedule can be found here . WYD08 organisers are calling for Sydneysiders to register their interest to join one of Sydney's longest street processions.

Sydney will host the 23rd World Youth Day from 15-20 July. Hosted by the Catholic Church but open to all, it will also mark the first visit to Australia of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.

Only 7 days to go to WYD08!