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.
A pilgrim is draped in a U.S. flag during the opening ceremony of World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro July 23. People endured rain and wind on Copacabana beach as they gathered for the event's kickoff and opening Mass.
Photo: CNS photo / Paul Haring