In the following days, it became apparent that after the Italians, French youths were the second most numerous pilgrims in Rome, some 80,000 strong. The French secular media, which frequently demonizes the Pope and the Church, were at a loss to explain this phenomenon. Though in past centuries the French Church had been known for her vigor, societal changes and political opposition during the last 30 years all but emptied church pews. Christian references disappeared. Religion became something very private, despite our strong Christian history.
People didn t dare talk about religion.
We had been afraid. This is because of a certain complex regarding religion. World Youth Day allowed French Catholics to show themselves. Indeed, the World Youth Day which took place in Paris 1997 seems to have been a notable turning point for the French Church, one which led directly to the success of WYD 2000. In the Pope s first message in Paris, he said Don t be afraid.