Group Recommendations

For dioceses, international movements, and communities in Canada sending pilgrims to World Youth Day. 

Keep groups small and manageable

We recommend 10-12 pilgrims or fewer per group. Smaller groups foster deeper community, easier coordination on the ground, and more attentive pastoral care for every individual. 

10-12 pilgrims or fewer

Recommended group size for effective pastoral care and smooth logistics. 

Larger groups? Consider sub-groups

Delegations of 10+ can register together, but we recommend dividing into smaller subgroups, each with its own leader and assistant to facilitate coordination, logistics and accompaniment. 

Every pilgrim seen and known 

Smaller groups ensure that no one falls through the cracks — spiritually, practically, or emotionally. 

Recommended roles

WYD Canada recommends the following roles to ensure your group is well supported — spiritually, pastorally and logistically. Adapt them to your context and community.

World Youth Day is designed for young adults aged 18–35. We encourage communities to entrust the roles of Group Leader and Assistant Leader to young adults. Adults 36 and older who are trained in spiritual accompaniment are welcome to join the group as Spiritual Companions — walking with pilgrims and supporting the young adult leadership team.

Group Leader

Ages 20–35 

  • Official point of contact with parish, diocese or community leadership 
  • Official point of contact with the travel agency 
  • Manages registrations and tracks payments for all pilgrims 
  • Ensures the leadership team is in place and ready 
  • In emergencies, delegates and stays with the group 

Assistant Leader

Ages 20–35 

  • Supports and assists the leader and leadership team with all their responsibilities 
  • Steps in as contact with parish/diocese and travel agency only when leader is absent 
  • Participates fully in preparation and accompaniment 

Spiritual Companion

Ages 20+, Trained in accompaniment 

  • Cares for spiritual health throughout the pilgrimage 
  • Offers pastoral listening and support in difficult moments 
  • Leads prayer, faith-sharing and spiritual preparation 
  • Lives the same conditions as pilgrims — simplicity and joy 

Once your group is formed

Parish groups & movements 

Inform your diocese. Let them know you are going — so you remain in communion with your local Church and benefit from their support. 

Diocesan, movement and association coordinators 

Inform WYD Canada. Let us know your group is coming — so we can continue to walk with you, provide resources, and keep you connected to the broader Canadian pilgrimage. 

Stay connected with the national team 

Diocesan Coordinators and Movement leaders are invited to stay connected with WYD Canada throughout the journey — from preparation, during the journey, and after the return. Reach out by email and join the national WhatsApp group to receive updates, resources and support from the coordinating team. 

Email: [email protected] 

WhatsApp You will be invited to join the national group leaders WhatsApp group