GUY Sebastian has finally given voice to a gospel song, recording the theme anthem for World Youth Day 2008.

Sebastian wrote the song, which he sings with Paulini Curuenavuli, and it will be released over the internet next Sunday in the lead-up to the Catholic Church's event in Sydney next year.

"I am not Catholic as such, but I guess the fundamentals are in place, which is Christ-based faith,'' said Sebastian, who simply identifies himself as a Christian.

"I guess to write it just came naturally. It was one of the quickest songs I've ever written.''

Sebastian's Receive the Power was chosen by the Vatican as the official tune for the congress, which will be held in Sydney from July 15-20 next year. Pope Benedict XVI will make his first trip to Australia for the event.

More than 125,000 delegates, or ``pilgrims'', from around the world and a further 175,000 from Australia, are expected to attend.

Sebastian is a World Vision ambassador and high-profile Christian, and grew up in Adelaide as a member of the Paradise Community Church.

"I have always been open about my faith,'' said Sebastian, who is now based in Sydney. ``I am pretty big on being honest and not hiding how I feel. Whether you are religious or not, you really have to stay true to your guns.''

Sebastian has often spoken of his desire to record gospel music. Though he's sung in many a church, this is the first time he's sung gospel music professionally.

Receive the Power will also be released in French, Spanish and Italian.

Sebastian and Curuenavuli will perform the song on World Youth Day and will launch the track in Sydney next Sunday.

Curuenavuli is also religious and was thrilled to be able to lend her voice to the project.

"I feel truly blessed to be a part of this amazing day and to have sung on this breathtaking, truly beautiful song,'' she said.

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