Returning home after World Youth Day Rio 2013 there were several things I didn’t miss: the long walk from our accommodations to the media centre because traffic was closed, the language barrier, and the weather that fluctuated between hot beach weather, and damp, winter rain. One thing I discovered I really do miss the incredible Brazilian liturgical music.

The Opening Mass on Copacabana Beach with Rio’s Archishop Orani Joao Tempesta, was the first time we really got a taste of the rich liturgical music that would accompany us through the rest of the week. Many expected to hear music reminiscent of Carnaval, or “bossanova light.” Those stereotypes were quickly forgotten. What we got instead was a liturgy woven with rich music that drew people into prayer, regardless of the language they spoke.

Relive that Opening Mass and rediscover a beautiful World Youth Day liturgy this week: