World Youth Day Coordinators, Brian and Sue Lacey, introduced members of the Pilgrimage Committee to those gathered. Parish Priest of the Forster/Tuncurry Parish, Fr Greg Barker, will be the WYD Chaplain and he explained to pilgrims the formation process which will take place over a number of sessions in May, June and July.
Pilgrims participated in some conversation with each other and the larger group about the difference between being a pilgrim and a tourist and discussion was held around the many logistics of being part of the pilgrimage.
Pilgrims were encouraged to read up on the history of Italy, Poland and Austria (the countries we will be visiting) and learn more about the saints in whose footsteps we will be walking.
Sue Lacey is certain that the pilgrimage will have a profound effect on all who participate and the wider diocesan community as a result.
“Pilgrims will experience everything as a group and will bring that transformation, that change of heart back with them,” said Sue.
WYD Youth Leaders, Maryanne Hacker and James Elliott, gave some advice about what to expect at the World Youth Day celebrations, which actually run over six days, this year in Krakow, Poland.
For anyone still exploring the possibility of attending WYD there is still time, although registrations close this coming Friday 15 April, so please call Brian (4979 1211) or Sue (4932 8605) if you are still interested.
