Benedict XVI to Visit Australian Shrine

SYDNEY, Australia, MAY 21, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI will visit the shrine of Australia's Blessed Mary MacKillop during his visit to Sydney in July.The visit was confirmed by Vatican officials, in Sydney this week to inspect planning and preparations for World Youth Day 2008. "Today we can confirm that the Holy Father will visit the tomb of Blessed Mary MacKillop, one of WYD08's 10 patrons," said Auxiliary Bishop Anthony Fisher, coordinator of the event. "Mary MacKillop's story of serving the poor and the uneducated is inspiring to all Australians and we hope she will also inspire the youth of the world."

The apostolic nuncio to Australia, Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto, confirmed the Holy Father will pray at MacKillop's tomb in North Sydney during his stay. "The Holy Father will be one of the thousands of pilgrims who will visit her shrine in July," Archbishop Lazzarotto said. "He will pray for Australia and the young pilgrims of the world so that they may be filled with the Holy Spirit and be witnesses to Christ." The Bishop of Rome will spend eight days in Australia, including three days of private rest and reflection prior to his official arrival at Sydney Harbor on July 17. Sydney will host the 23rd World Youth Day from July 15-20.