October 3 2006: The search has begun for an anthem to celebrate the world's largest youth event - World Youth Day 2008 (WYD08).

Archbishop Stanislaw Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, launched the song competition during his visit to Sydney along with WYD08 Coordinator Bishop Anthony Fisher OP.

Archbishop Rylko encouraged Australian songwriters to compose an inspirational tune for WYD08, an event which will see as many as 500,000 young Catholics gather in Sydney in July 2008.

"I invite all musically inclined Australians to turn their talents to this creative and holy cause, which will help us discover and reveal the spiritual and pastoral content of the WYD experience for all," he said.

"A truly beautiful, contemporary and spirit-rousing song will leave a rich and lasting legacy for years to come in Australia and all around the world."

Previous World Youth Day events have been distinguished by a memorable song.

Sydney's WYD08 organisers are looking for our own stirring anthem - one that symbolises the Australian context, the youth audience and the religious theme of the event.

The composer of the winning song will win a trip for two to Rome where the song will be launched and performed publicly for the first time.

"The competition will be a great way for young Australians to get involved in the spirit of World Youth Day," Bishop Fisher said.

The song will incorporate the WYD2008 theme of Jesus' final words on Earth:

'You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses.' Acts 1:8.

"There is already so much to stimulate creative young songwriters here, but the chance to write a vibrant and memorable song for the biggest event Australia has ever seen is a once in a lifetime opportunity," Bishop Fisher said.

The competition is open to all Australian citizens and entries close on 30 November.

Details and applications for entry can be found at www.wyd2008.org

World Youth Day is the largest youth event in the world and will attract an anticipated 500,000 pilgrims from 15-20 July in 2008.

WYD08 will also mark the first visit by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to Australia.

Media contact: Jim Hanna
mobile: 0414 828 629
email: media@wyd2008.org