In commemoration of the one-year countdown until World Youth Day Rio2013, the Official Anthem of the Day will be announced on July 29th in Rio. "The 'face' of Rio de Janeiro and the 'face' of the Church in Brazil will certainly be present in this memorable song,” said Father Leandro Lenin, a director of the Pastoral Preparing Sector of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC).

The sector, which is responsible for the anthem, held a contest to choose the lyrics. "We are in the final selection of the lyrics. There were 180 and now we are in a block of 20," said Father Leandro.

Judges include music teachers, choral conductors, as well as members of the Church who are not technically and professionally engaged in music.

"With the definition of a smaller group of lyrics, maybe three, we will produce the 'body', which is the melody. From there we will go through approval processes and new adjustments for the big launch. When we release the Official Anthem of the World Youth Day, we will have it ready," said Father Leandro.

The choice of the date of disclosure of the Official Anthem is strategic. It will happen in Rio during an event called "Pre-Day", to be held in Maracanazinho between July 27th and July 29th this year. All sectors of the LOC are involved in planning this activity. By the end of the month, event programming should be completed.

Song selection is made according to criteria such as creativity, spiritual values linked to the theme of WYD, and the beauty and harmony of the composition. The priests on the committee monitor religious and doctrinal content. "Everything that comes to us goes through the evaluation process, especially in the field of teaching and in matters of faith, but the creativity of those who sent us the lyrics is being kept,” he said.

The contest began on October 31st and ended its registrations on March 3rd. A notice of the criteria and standards was made available to applicants. To follow the progress of the choice of lyrics and the music production process, access the website (www.rio2013.com). On the official date, the song will be aired so the whole world can experience the spirit of WYD Rio2013 through music.