Sir, - What a resounding success World Youth Day in Rome was. Over 2 million young people from all around the world came on pilgrimage to the Eternal City to proclaim their faith in God. The open-air Mass at Tor Vergata, presided over by the Pope, was perhaps the most moving and spectacular event of the week. This was the biggest gathering ever to take place in Europe and the young people were so enthusiastic and sincere.
The Mayor of Rome opened the city's beautiful gardens, particularly the famous Villa Borghese, so that the young people could cool themselves in the shade and drink from the fountains. He commented afterwards that not one flower or shrub was destroyed and there was no vandalism or disrespect of any kind. What a great tribute to these young people. Compare it with the thuggery of football louts who travel abroad and vandalise foreign cities. Compare it also with the disgusting behaviour that one sees every weekend in Dublin.
World Youth Day in Rome was a truly great event and those involved a credit to their countries. They behaved as true Christians should. - Yours, etc.,
Anthony Redmond, North Great George's Street, Dublin 1.