"Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary" (cf. Is 40:31). This powerful message from Isaiah echoes through the heart of this year’s WYD Cross of Hope in Montreal, a cherished symbol offered to young people during the diocesan World Youth Day celebrations. Modelled after the international WYD Cross that journeys across the globe, Montreal’s WYD Cross is distributed to young participants in the Teen Festival and Christ the King Vigil to support them in their faith journey, inspiring a deeper commitment to follow Christ.

The WYD MTL Cross: A Symbol of Courage and Service

Each year, a young artist within the diocese designs the WYD Cross, drawing from the Pope’s message and the WYD theme. This cross is more than a physical object; it’s a call for youth to share the light of Christ with courage and to serve others with open, compassionate hearts.

The Cross of Hope – 2024

Michelle Beli-en David, the artist behind this year’s WYD MTL Cross, infused her design with personal reflections and symbolic elements. As Michelle explains:

“The logo on the cross was inspired by Pope Francis’ message to young people, as well as the passage from Isaiah, ‘Those who hope in the Lord… will run and not be weary.’ I drew a silhouette of a pilgrim running towards God, symbolizing hope and the journey of faith. A zigzag line underneath represents the unpredictable path of life, full of highs and lows, while a heart within the pilgrim signifies that we journey with hope and love. Pope Francis encourages us to keep our hearts open to praise God for his many gifts, especially the gift of life, which is represented by the heart.”

About the Artist

Michelle Beli-en David, an active leader at St. Kevin’s Parish, serves on the livestream team, as an altar server, and as a youth minister. With a background in Communications, Media, and Studio Arts from Vanier College and Photography from Dawson College, Michelle channels her talents into her service within the community. Her design reminds Montreal’s young people of the beauty in following God’s call with an open heart, even through life’s twists and turns.

A Gift from the Œuvre des Vocations du Diocèse de Montréal

The WYD Cross of Hope is generously donated by the Œuvre des Vocations du Diocèse de Montréal. The cross is presented to youth by men and women who have answered their own vocational call—through marriage, consecrated life, priesthood, or diaconate—alongside youth ministers and dedicated lay leaders. This act of witness encourages young people to explore their own vocational calling and ask, “What is God calling me to?”

Join the Journey of Hope

The WYD Cross of Hope invites Montreal’s youth to become pilgrims of faith, walking with trust in God’s path, guided by the inspiring examples around them. Join us at this year’s WYD Teen Festival and Christ the King Vigil, and experience the journey of hope together.

WYD Cross Montreal - Mission Jeunesse - Youth Ministry