Millions of young people gathered in Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day in July. It was Pope Francis' first international trip. By all accounts the event was joyous, spirit-filled and peppered with poignant words and gestures from the pontiff.
Pilgrims pack Copacabana beach for the World Youth Day closing Mass in Rio de Janeiro July 28. Pope Francis celebrated the service with an estimated 3 million people in attendance.
Photo: CNS photo / Paul Haring