At a time when probably more than ever before, the world has realised its need for ideals, Ratzinger is calling youngsters once again, not to bottle up any questions and concerns they may have, and not to cover their need to find a reason to life with a thick and ephemeral blanket of cynicism. In a world in which the only things that seem to matter are power, lust and money, the Pope will be inviting youngsters to devote their life to something or someone that really makes them happy and fulfilled. He will not point to an idea, a set of rules or dogma, or to aesthetic effect of some beautiful rite. Instead, he will be referring to one person, Jesus of Nazareth. And he will be explaining to youngsters at WYD that living Christianity does not mean giving something up, but receiving “hundredfold on Earth” a promise Jesus himself made to his people, also guaranteeing eternal life.
-- Andrea Tornielli, writing on "Ratzinger's theological bet" at World Youth Day, www.vaticaninsider.com
