They're going to meet Pope Francis: 5 teens raising money for Poland trip

Every two years, thousands of youths from all over the world gather to worship together with Pope Francis for World Youth Day.

By Anastasia Pagello
| 3:44 p.m. January 9, 2016

These five youths will we traveling to Krakow, Poland, in late July to experience World Youth Day. Left to right: Jose Albujar, Frenchesta Albujar, Kyle Depalma, Anthony Janna and Tina Janna with a picture of Pope Francis. Photos by Anastasia Pagello

Emma Carrube gives Kim Cazzaniga a high five after helping her brother Evan win a carnival game.

The Multicultural Food Festival was held to raise funds for the local youths trip to Poland.

Lena and Briana Esteves performed with the local group Folklore of Portugal.

Santa Maria Del Mar Church volunteer Anabela Gaspar with Adison and Ashley Gaspar.

Dancers from St. Demetrius Greek Orthodox Church performed "Kalamatiano" at the Multicultural festival. Left to right: Eleni Kostidakis, Dimitri Summerlin, Vangeli Pavgouzas, Yanni Bauzas and Thanasi Summerlin

Left to right: Crystal, Darla, Francis, Lou and Maverick Callegari.

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

The Santa Maria Del Mar Church, in Flagler Beach, held a Multicultural Food Festival on Saturday, January 9, to raise funds for five local youths to attend World Youth Day in Krakow, Poland. The Multicultural Food Festival boasted a diverse selection of food from a dozen different countries including Peru, Poland, France and Greece.

“I am happy to give our support by attending this festival, and I hope the kids find inspiration when they reach Poland,” said Francis Whitmore.

“This will be a great eye-opening experience for these kids, for them to explore the world, while strengthening their faith.” Kim Cazzaniga, Youth Minister, of Santa Maria Del Mar Church

Pope Francis, accompanied by thousands of youths from all over the world, will be attending the World Youth Day in Poland in late July.

“World Youth Day focuses on strengthening individual’s faith and their relationship with God,” said Event Coordinator Carmen Albujar.

The five Flagler County teens plan to campout or stay at hostiles for the week long trip. Their goal is to raise $15,000.

“I look forward to sharing this experience with other people who are on the same journey to strengthen their faith with the Lord,” said Kyle Depalma, one of the youths who will chaperoning the trip. “We are overwhelmed with gratitude to receive so much support from the community, for without them this trip would not be possible.”