Peter:
I still don't know what day it is, exactly. I'm not quite sure what day I got home, but I have a sneaking suspicion it was yesterday morning. It feels like I got home either an hour ago or a week ago, and my internal clock is still indecisive on which it is. Anyways, seeing as how Mrs. Willits posted about July 23rd, I think I am supposed to comment on July 24th, yesterday, the day we all arrived home. The first thing I remember about July 24th is waking up to the shock of the Airtran pilot turning all the cabin lights on. This was at four something in the morning as we arrived at the Atlanta airport. After hearing the simultaneous groans and yelps of all the rudely awakened passengers, we landed and deboarded in the Atlanta airport, which was the first official stop of our pilgrimage. Most of us walked directly to concourse A, where nearly two weeks ago many of the pilgrims had their very first experience with Chick-fil-a. We saw the area where all of the pilgrims played apples to apples together. That silly game, which was so instrumental in our team building, seemed like it took place ages ago. It was five in the morning at this point, however, so Cinnabon, which was located next to Chick-fil-a, seemed to be the better breakfast choice. So we sat, inhaling our unhealthy breakfasts while we talked and laughed with mouths that stuck with Cinnabon icing. We all tried to savor the last few hours we would be spending together. Each of us knew that we would be home in mere hours, but nobody wanted to say it. See, one of the interesting things about going on a pilgrimage is that you can become quite close to those who experience it with you. I've made life-long friends on this trip and it was, in the truest sense of the cliché, a bittersweet experience to be with them in those last few hours. Three of us will be going to college soon. Two others will be entering the service. I am quite jealous of those pilgrims who will continue to attend Framingham High together, as they will continue to see each other nearly every day. Hopefully those friendships will only strengthen in the years to come. The time came to leave concourse A and we trekked back to concourse C, where our plane was waiting for us. After some personal words of appreciation from the chaperones and pilgrims alike, we boarded our flight to Boston and started on our trip home. I don't have much to write about that flight, as I slept through pretty much the entire thing. In the words of Joanne Connolly, I am the sleeping champion. Our plane arrived in Boston and we made our way to baggage claim. Joanne and I tried to hide Damian, the Dragaroo flag, so we could keep him for ourselves. The chaperone's clearer heads prevailed, however, and Damian was taken from his hiding place in my bag so he could be given his last two signatures, from Fr. Matt and Steve Colella. From there, Bill took custody of the flag so that St. George's can have a concrete piece of evidence of the life-changing experience that is World Youth Day. Eventually, the time came. We all said our goodbyes, with handshakes, hugs, and fist pounds. Promises of "Madrid, 2011" were made. We all went our separate ways, some of us going home from the airport with our families, some of us taking the Logan Express to Framingham. As for myself, I arrived home, hugged my mom for the first time in two weeks, and looked through some of the pictures from our pilgrimage. Then, true to character, I took a nap.As much as I would have preferred to keep the flag for myself, it is quite appropriate that it goes to St. George's, if for no other reason than as a token of appreciation from the pilgrims to the congregation of the parish. Make no mistake; this was a life-changing experience, and we appreciate the sacrifices and donations you all made to get us here. I say "here" and not "there," because World Youth Day hasn't simply finished upon our arrival home. It never ends. It has transformed each and every one of us. We've all grown in our spiritual lives. Even if that growth was something so miniscule as a pilgrim realizing that he or she doesn't have to groan every time someone wants to start a rosary, or realizing that confession doesn't actually hurt, or simply that mass is something that should be appreciated and not avoided, the pilgrimage was worth it. It is difficult to gage the change that happens in the hearts of the pilgrims. As the priest from the New York group said, the change that happens with this pilgrimage is very real, very deep, and very personal. I am certain, though, that there is not one pilgrim who has remained spiritually static in these two weeks. So to the St. George congregation, to those who helped us get to Australia, enjoy Damian, the Dragaroo flag. Know that some of us pilgrims have become very attached to him, and give him to you with grave seriousness. We all realize, however, that there is nothing in this world that we could give to you that equals the experience you have given us. It may be comforting to know that some of us have vocalized our desire to be pilgrims and chaperones for the next World Youth Day. So until next time, in Madrid, 2011,Thank you from the bottom of our heartsPeter Bowman and the Dragaroos.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 13
Mrs. Willitts’ Blog - July 23, 2008
Whew! By the time this is posted, the pilgrims have landed and sleeping in their own beds. Of course these are the beds that they have not seen for 12 nights.
As I considered the date assigned me, I thought: “This is great, a no-brainer, all we are doing on this day is flying.” Sounds pretty simple…
Absolutely nothing is simple with the Dragaroos: example: am I writing about today – maybe today is yesterday or today could be tomorrow – whatever. Really, this dateline crossing is wrecking havoc on the calendar, after all, we completed a 43-hour Sunday!
But here is what transpired on this day of flight from Hawaii to Boston. Let’s see, we got up at 4:00 A.M. Luggage collected in the hotel pickup area at 5:00 A.M. I point out that no breakfast is included. But to the rescue is a bag with crackers and some fruit supplied by Fr. Matt. The baggage was loaded onto a truck and off it went to the airport as we waited now for our 5:30 bus. And yes the bus was on time. We boarded, prayed and off we go for a lazy day of flying.
Such a piece of cake – through checking-in luggage with no additional charges for the extremely over-weight baggage, through the security check with no one sounding off bells and whistles and off to get Burger King, Chinese or anything for breakfast. Then we begin our venture of take-offs and landings that will eventually bring us to Boston.
We had a scheduled 5-hour layover at the Los Angeles airport. Now here is where things get interesting. As pilgrims on a faith-filled journey, we had celebrated daily Mass for the past 12 days. With time on our hands, Fr. Matt seized the moment and searched out airport personal. He wanted to know where the airport chapel was so that we could celebrate Mass. Well, lo and behold, the city of angels has no chapel in the airport. Did that stop this energetic young priest and 126 pilgrims? No way!
Here at LAX, in the Air Tran luggage check-in area with no airport personal to check-in our bags, Mass was celebrated. An oversized suitcase was laid down on the floor. A large plastic airport tray was placed over the luggage and waa-la and altar was built. Christin, the performer that did the Mother Theresa segment in Sydney, provided a green Hawaiian print cloth to cover our altar. Sean Longden volunteered to do the reading. As Fr. Matt dressed for Mass, Deacon Roshan set the altar. And we were ready to begin. We sang, we prayed, we worshiped all in an airport baggage area. This was an extra-ordinary moment of what we were called to Sydney to do – “…be my witnesses”. Even the reading of the day spoke directly to the youth – “don’t be afraid because of your youth…”
And back to take-off, eating, sleeping, and landing. Take-off, eating, sleeping, landing. And take-off, eating, sleeping, landing.
Whew! By the time this is posted, the pilgrims have landed and sleeping in their own beds. Of course these are the beds that they have not seen for 12 nights.
As I considered the date assigned me, I thought: “This is great, a no-brainer, all we are doing on this day is flying.” Sounds pretty simple…
Absolutely nothing is simple with the Dragaroos: example: am I writing about today – maybe today is yesterday or today could be tomorrow – whatever. Really, this dateline crossing is wrecking havoc on the calendar, after all, we completed a 43-hour Sunday!
But here is what transpired on this day of flight from Hawaii to Boston. Let’s see, we got up at 4:00 A.M. Luggage collected in the hotel pickup area at 5:00 A.M. I point out that no breakfast is included. But to the rescue is a bag with crackers and some fruit supplied by Fr. Matt. The baggage was loaded onto a truck and off it went to the airport as we waited now for our 5:30 bus. And yes the bus was on time. We boarded, prayed and off we go for a lazy day of flying.
Such a piece of cake – through checking-in luggage with no additional charges for the extremely over-weight baggage, through the security check with no one sounding off bells and whistles and off to get Burger King, Chinese or anything for breakfast. Then we begin our venture of take-offs and landings that will eventually bring us to Boston.
We had a scheduled 5-hour layover at the Los Angeles airport. Now here is where things get interesting. As pilgrims on a faith-filled journey, we had celebrated daily Mass for the past 12 days. With time on our hands, Fr. Matt seized the moment and searched out airport personal. He wanted to know where the airport chapel was so that we could celebrate Mass. Well, lo and behold, the city of angels has no chapel in the airport. Did that stop this energetic young priest and 126 pilgrims? No way!
Here at LAX, in the Air Tran luggage check-in area with no airport personal to check-in our bags, Mass was celebrated. An oversized suitcase was laid down on the floor. A large plastic airport tray was placed over the luggage and waa-la and altar was built. Christin, the performer that did the Mother Theresa segment in Sydney, provided a green Hawaiian print cloth to cover our altar. Sean Longden volunteered to do the reading. As Fr. Matt dressed for Mass, Deacon Roshan set the altar. And we were ready to begin. We sang, we prayed, we worshiped all in an airport baggage area. This was an extra-ordinary moment of what we were called to Sydney to do – “…be my witnesses”. Even the reading of the day spoke directly to the youth – “don’t be afraid because of your youth…”
And back to take-off, eating, sleeping, and landing. Take-off, eating, sleeping, landing. And take-off, eating, sleeping, landing.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
WYD by the Numbers
For a breakdown on the WYD numbers, here are a few:
223,000 total pilgrims
110,000 overseas pilgrims from 170 nations (86 nations were identified by Kevin Cory and his booooys Sean E and Kevin J)
3.5 million meals served in 400 venues
8,000 volunteers
2,000 accredited media
4,000 priests and deacons
420 bishops and 26 cardinals
Pilgrims consumed 215,000 meat pies (Kevin Cory had 2), 360,000 lamingtons, and 100,000 litres of milk.
1.1 million communion hosts were produced for WYD Masses and 1,000 priests heard confessions
223,000 total pilgrims
110,000 overseas pilgrims from 170 nations (86 nations were identified by Kevin Cory and his booooys Sean E and Kevin J)
3.5 million meals served in 400 venues
8,000 volunteers
2,000 accredited media
4,000 priests and deacons
420 bishops and 26 cardinals
Pilgrims consumed 215,000 meat pies (Kevin Cory had 2), 360,000 lamingtons, and 100,000 litres of milk.
1.1 million communion hosts were produced for WYD Masses and 1,000 priests heard confessions
Pilgrim Blog: Day 12
Maria:
Today was the day to relax for the pilgrims going to Boston. Most people slept until ten o’clock except for Steve and me who slept until one o’clock. While most of us hung out playing Mr.Willitts’s favorite game “hit the old guy in the face when he’s not looking” Steve and I went with Mrs. Jazec to go surfing. Surfing in Hawaiian waters is more pleasurable than surfing in the Atlantic because you do not have the incentive to not wipe out and land in a ice cold ocean. At 4:30 everyone joined in the lobby to attend St. Augustine’s for mass, and though the mass was simple without music, it was a good mass all the same. After mass we disputed over the place to have dinner and finally agreed on the food court at the mall which turned out to sell outrageously large portions of food. The prayer service turned out to be a contest to best show a theme found in WYD with props and a speech, the scores were one to five based on how deep and how creative the presentation was. The winner received free ice cream from Fr. Matt and Stephen Collela.
Peter, Joanne, Joanna, Phin, Sean Egan, Sean Longden, Mrs. Shorey-Jones, Mrs. Hebert, and the Willitt’s went to Puka Dog. A local hotdog shop that sold their hotdogs in a special lemon sauce and a relish of your choice of mango, banana, pineapple, starfruit, and other unknown flavors. I first ordered fresh squeezed lemonade which they prepare while you watch and actually put the lemon half they used in to your drink, it was amazing. The hotdogs were delicious and we walked through the late night street market of Hawaii with street performers, carts selling trinkets, and ABC stores. While Phin shopped for a present for his mom, the rest of use discovered a couple of parrots sitting on the rocks that were part of a water fall Mrs. Willitts began trying to get one on her finger and Joanna followed suit. I managed to get an 11 year old bird named Pettie while Peter talked with a white bird named Charlie and Sean Egan and Joanna switched off holding Buddy. The owner was very nice about letting us hold his birds and when Phin was done shopping we left and after a quick stop at the ABC store for t-shirts we made it to the hotel to meet up with Bill, Steve, Charlotte, and the Kevins. We have to have our luggage down by 5am tomorrow in order to catch a plane at 8:10.
Today was the day to relax for the pilgrims going to Boston. Most people slept until ten o’clock except for Steve and me who slept until one o’clock. While most of us hung out playing Mr.Willitts’s favorite game “hit the old guy in the face when he’s not looking” Steve and I went with Mrs. Jazec to go surfing. Surfing in Hawaiian waters is more pleasurable than surfing in the Atlantic because you do not have the incentive to not wipe out and land in a ice cold ocean. At 4:30 everyone joined in the lobby to attend St. Augustine’s for mass, and though the mass was simple without music, it was a good mass all the same. After mass we disputed over the place to have dinner and finally agreed on the food court at the mall which turned out to sell outrageously large portions of food. The prayer service turned out to be a contest to best show a theme found in WYD with props and a speech, the scores were one to five based on how deep and how creative the presentation was. The winner received free ice cream from Fr. Matt and Stephen Collela.
Peter, Joanne, Joanna, Phin, Sean Egan, Sean Longden, Mrs. Shorey-Jones, Mrs. Hebert, and the Willitt’s went to Puka Dog. A local hotdog shop that sold their hotdogs in a special lemon sauce and a relish of your choice of mango, banana, pineapple, starfruit, and other unknown flavors. I first ordered fresh squeezed lemonade which they prepare while you watch and actually put the lemon half they used in to your drink, it was amazing. The hotdogs were delicious and we walked through the late night street market of Hawaii with street performers, carts selling trinkets, and ABC stores. While Phin shopped for a present for his mom, the rest of use discovered a couple of parrots sitting on the rocks that were part of a water fall Mrs. Willitts began trying to get one on her finger and Joanna followed suit. I managed to get an 11 year old bird named Pettie while Peter talked with a white bird named Charlie and Sean Egan and Joanna switched off holding Buddy. The owner was very nice about letting us hold his birds and when Phin was done shopping we left and after a quick stop at the ABC store for t-shirts we made it to the hotel to meet up with Bill, Steve, Charlotte, and the Kevins. We have to have our luggage down by 5am tomorrow in order to catch a plane at 8:10.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 11
Paul:
After a double dose of Sunday ended with the adult leaders meeting until after midnight, we got a few hours sleep and were up for a 6 AM grab and go breakfast, on to a shuttle bus, and off to Pearl Harbor. Fr. Matt gathered the young pilgrims to ask them to reflect on their experiences from World Youth Day in Australia and to continue the Pilgrimage in Hawaii. They were to reflect upon who they are and why the Holy Spirit directed them to be here and how the Holy Spirit may direct them to where they need to be in order to help preserve peace on Earth and block conflicts they may encounter. Pope John Paul II said “The Holy Spirit speaks through prayer and bears witness through the people” The experiences we encountered and learned from at Pearl Harbor were far beyond anything that could have been taught in the classroom or learned from any literary form. As a former teacher, I can attest to the fact that students learn far more through concrete examples and participation in group activities than through textbooks and lectures. After seeing a film with actual footage from WW II and the attack on Pearl Harbor, there was hardly a dry eye in the auditorium. A boat trip took us to see the remains of the sunken ships and memorial sites on the harbor during which silence prevailed as we all were moved by this experience of contemplating good vs. evil and military men and women giving their lives to protect Americans. Oil slicks continue to surface from the sunken ships from decades ago; some believe the tears of those who gave their lives for their country are still rising to the surface. It was no coincidence that the song playing on the radio in our mini-van trip home was Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to be an American”. The Holy Spirit again directed this message to us. Upon our return to the hotel, we regrouped to visit St. Augustine by the Sea church to pray the Rosary together. Our decision was to visit the Church first, get lunch, and spend some time on the beach. Again, the Holy Spirit directed us to arrive just before the group from NY was having a Mass celebrated by their priest, Fr. Rick. Our arch rival NY football Giant fans and NY Yankee fans, united in prayer with Red Sox Nation. Fr. Rick’s homily reinforced the “you had to be there” idea of what our Pilgrims really absorbed today. Most important was the fact that a Pilgrimage is a personal encounter with Jesus and very private, even though over 200,000 Pilgrims were all together at the Pope’s Mass. We then hit Burger King for lunch and fun in the sun on Waikakee Beach. I joined in with the kids in a water soccer ball game created by Bill. I’ve renamed the game “hit the old guy in the face with the ball when he’s not looking”. I can honestly say the participation in the game made my entire body pain free this afternoon, which I haven’t experienced in 2 years. As the Pilgrims reflected on where they are headed and how the Holy Spirit may guide them, I felt “been there, done that”. As I reflected through my past I began to realize that maybe I’m not ready for full retirement; being with these awesome, caring kids has made me think I really need to get back into something related to working with kids. I think the Jesus has spoken to me through the Holy Spirit to look to the future with a positive attitude and to put me back where I belong—with the youth—I love them all. Thank you Dragaroos for your encouragement and thoughtfulness over the last 10 days. Oh yeah , went to a luau tonight and came back to meet on the beach with Fr. Matt and our traveling buddies from other parishes to share our experiences of the day. I have to go nighty-bye now so you can just imagine for yourself the fun at the luau and the bus ride tomorrow.
Charlotte arriving in Hawaii on Sunday.
Our Pilgrims taking in the enormity of Pearl Harbor
Old Glory standing proud from inside the memorial.
After a double dose of Sunday ended with the adult leaders meeting until after midnight, we got a few hours sleep and were up for a 6 AM grab and go breakfast, on to a shuttle bus, and off to Pearl Harbor. Fr. Matt gathered the young pilgrims to ask them to reflect on their experiences from World Youth Day in Australia and to continue the Pilgrimage in Hawaii. They were to reflect upon who they are and why the Holy Spirit directed them to be here and how the Holy Spirit may direct them to where they need to be in order to help preserve peace on Earth and block conflicts they may encounter. Pope John Paul II said “The Holy Spirit speaks through prayer and bears witness through the people” The experiences we encountered and learned from at Pearl Harbor were far beyond anything that could have been taught in the classroom or learned from any literary form. As a former teacher, I can attest to the fact that students learn far more through concrete examples and participation in group activities than through textbooks and lectures. After seeing a film with actual footage from WW II and the attack on Pearl Harbor, there was hardly a dry eye in the auditorium. A boat trip took us to see the remains of the sunken ships and memorial sites on the harbor during which silence prevailed as we all were moved by this experience of contemplating good vs. evil and military men and women giving their lives to protect Americans. Oil slicks continue to surface from the sunken ships from decades ago; some believe the tears of those who gave their lives for their country are still rising to the surface. It was no coincidence that the song playing on the radio in our mini-van trip home was Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to be an American”. The Holy Spirit again directed this message to us. Upon our return to the hotel, we regrouped to visit St. Augustine by the Sea church to pray the Rosary together. Our decision was to visit the Church first, get lunch, and spend some time on the beach. Again, the Holy Spirit directed us to arrive just before the group from NY was having a Mass celebrated by their priest, Fr. Rick. Our arch rival NY football Giant fans and NY Yankee fans, united in prayer with Red Sox Nation. Fr. Rick’s homily reinforced the “you had to be there” idea of what our Pilgrims really absorbed today. Most important was the fact that a Pilgrimage is a personal encounter with Jesus and very private, even though over 200,000 Pilgrims were all together at the Pope’s Mass. We then hit Burger King for lunch and fun in the sun on Waikakee Beach. I joined in with the kids in a water soccer ball game created by Bill. I’ve renamed the game “hit the old guy in the face with the ball when he’s not looking”. I can honestly say the participation in the game made my entire body pain free this afternoon, which I haven’t experienced in 2 years. As the Pilgrims reflected on where they are headed and how the Holy Spirit may guide them, I felt “been there, done that”. As I reflected through my past I began to realize that maybe I’m not ready for full retirement; being with these awesome, caring kids has made me think I really need to get back into something related to working with kids. I think the Jesus has spoken to me through the Holy Spirit to look to the future with a positive attitude and to put me back where I belong—with the youth—I love them all. Thank you Dragaroos for your encouragement and thoughtfulness over the last 10 days. Oh yeah , went to a luau tonight and came back to meet on the beach with Fr. Matt and our traveling buddies from other parishes to share our experiences of the day. I have to go nighty-bye now so you can just imagine for yourself the fun at the luau and the bus ride tomorrow.
Charlotte arriving in Hawaii on Sunday.
Our Pilgrims taking in the enormity of Pearl Harbor
Old Glory standing proud from inside the memorial.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 10 (and day 10 again)
Charlotte:
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Today was and will forever remain the longest day of our lives. It started on a crisp morning in the middle of a race track in Sydney, Australia, and ended on a sunny beach in Honolulu, Hawaii coming to a grand total of a full forty-three hour day.
The day began when we were rudely awakened this morning to the chant of “WAKE UP PILGRIMS!” and a banging drum at 5:30am. It was a bit chilly out and we were all a little sad to crawl out of our warm sleeping bags. However, we persevered and managed to all be semi- awake and fed in time for the Morning Prayer service. We saw the Pope up close in his “Popemobile” as he drove around the track to start the final Mass. The Mass was amazing; for those who did not watch it on television, the music was beautiful and the Pope’s message to the youth and pilgrims was that of hope and prayer for the youth and to not be afraid in this materialistic world to say “yes” to God and your faith and to never be embarrassed about what you believe in. Although tired, we all understood his message and we all became very reflective about our time in Sydney, a city we had all come to love and would miss, and about the pilgrimage we had just experienced. However we had to pack up our stuff early because we were on a tight time table. It was noon and we had to have everything packed and ready for our departure as well as showered and dressed not only for the other people on our plane but also for our “Farewell Dinner” with Cardinal Sean O’Malley. At 12:30pm we set off for the buses that were to take us back to the hotel so that we would have plenty of time to get ready- checkout was at 4pm and dinner was at 4:45pm. Unfortunately what was supposed to cut down on our walk back to the hotel cost us even more time due to some miscommunication and we suddenly found ourselves at 2:30pm bus-less and a bit pressed for time. We made it though, packed, checked out and squeaky clean, just in time for dinner. Steven Jones was nominated from our group to sit with the Cardinal, however, due to our departure time we had to cut dinner short so that we could make it to the airport. However, there was also a slight miscommunication between this bus company as well, but after a mini van, cab, and bus that looked like something straight out of the 1970’s we all managed to make it to the Sydney airport on time, breeze through security and make it on the plane headed for Hawaii. We were absolutely exhausted and all fell asleep almost immediately.
A nine hour nap was in order and we all gave in to our fatigue, many of us missing dinner, breakfast, or even both. When we landed in Honolulu we hit the ground running. It was Sunday, again, 11am Honolulu time, and we had to get through customs and make our way to our hotel. Despite Joanne’s passport debacle everyone made it back into the U.S. with no problems and after each receiving his or her lei we headed for the hotel. We entered our beautiful hotel and immediately headed for the shops and beach after quickly tossing our stuff in our rooms. It rained a little when we arrived but the sun was soon shining and we enjoyed our first relaxing day in Honolulu.
It was a great last day in Sydney and we are all going to miss our time in Australia. The pilgrimage was a success and we all came to know a lot more about ourselves and our Faith. And many of us cannot wait for World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Today was and will forever remain the longest day of our lives. It started on a crisp morning in the middle of a race track in Sydney, Australia, and ended on a sunny beach in Honolulu, Hawaii coming to a grand total of a full forty-three hour day.
The day began when we were rudely awakened this morning to the chant of “WAKE UP PILGRIMS!” and a banging drum at 5:30am. It was a bit chilly out and we were all a little sad to crawl out of our warm sleeping bags. However, we persevered and managed to all be semi- awake and fed in time for the Morning Prayer service. We saw the Pope up close in his “Popemobile” as he drove around the track to start the final Mass. The Mass was amazing; for those who did not watch it on television, the music was beautiful and the Pope’s message to the youth and pilgrims was that of hope and prayer for the youth and to not be afraid in this materialistic world to say “yes” to God and your faith and to never be embarrassed about what you believe in. Although tired, we all understood his message and we all became very reflective about our time in Sydney, a city we had all come to love and would miss, and about the pilgrimage we had just experienced. However we had to pack up our stuff early because we were on a tight time table. It was noon and we had to have everything packed and ready for our departure as well as showered and dressed not only for the other people on our plane but also for our “Farewell Dinner” with Cardinal Sean O’Malley. At 12:30pm we set off for the buses that were to take us back to the hotel so that we would have plenty of time to get ready- checkout was at 4pm and dinner was at 4:45pm. Unfortunately what was supposed to cut down on our walk back to the hotel cost us even more time due to some miscommunication and we suddenly found ourselves at 2:30pm bus-less and a bit pressed for time. We made it though, packed, checked out and squeaky clean, just in time for dinner. Steven Jones was nominated from our group to sit with the Cardinal, however, due to our departure time we had to cut dinner short so that we could make it to the airport. However, there was also a slight miscommunication between this bus company as well, but after a mini van, cab, and bus that looked like something straight out of the 1970’s we all managed to make it to the Sydney airport on time, breeze through security and make it on the plane headed for Hawaii. We were absolutely exhausted and all fell asleep almost immediately.
A nine hour nap was in order and we all gave in to our fatigue, many of us missing dinner, breakfast, or even both. When we landed in Honolulu we hit the ground running. It was Sunday, again, 11am Honolulu time, and we had to get through customs and make our way to our hotel. Despite Joanne’s passport debacle everyone made it back into the U.S. with no problems and after each receiving his or her lei we headed for the hotel. We entered our beautiful hotel and immediately headed for the shops and beach after quickly tossing our stuff in our rooms. It rained a little when we arrived but the sun was soon shining and we enjoyed our first relaxing day in Honolulu.
It was a great last day in Sydney and we are all going to miss our time in Australia. The pilgrimage was a success and we all came to know a lot more about ourselves and our Faith. And many of us cannot wait for World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid!
Pilgrim Blog: Day 9
Steven:
Today defined the “pilgrimage” part of this pilgrimage. It started “later” than usual. We woke at 0715 for breakfast, our last real meal before our journey. We savored every last bit of it and then prepared our stuff for the walk. We all met downstairs and departed for St. Patrick’s church for our mass with the rest of Boston, Cardinal Sean included. After the beautiful ceremony, we gathered in the courtyard with the rest of Boston for a photo opportunity with the Cardinal. After our quick photo-op, we departed. As we began walking back in the direction of our hotel, we caught glimpse of the other 938,924,374,298 people slowly filing across the bridge. We walked towards Darling harbor and joined the 938,924,374,298 pilgrims on the exciting tour. We took a quick break at the Darling Harbor Convention Center to make use of the facilities and were quickly on our way. There’s not much to continue writing about about the next three hours; walking is walking no matter which way you look at it. Our next real challenge came about a mile away from the end of our journey. We came up on heartbreak hill; rightfully named so because of a 1/10 mile, 40° inclined hill that greeted us. With minimum struggle, from us “young” people that is, we conquered the hill. We were finally met by smiling, ever-so-happy, volunteers that made everything seem better with their words of encouragement. As we continued to get closer and closer to the racetrack, morale began to rise quickly. Upon entering the racetrack, we were quickly greeted be more volunteers who handed us our green bags containing our food. As we journeyed deeper into the racetrack, we came upon our plot of land. It may have been one of the further plots, but it was perfect nonetheless. We claimed our spots of where we were to sleep for the night, surrounded by Germans, Philippines, Hawaiians, and even more Germans. We opened our food and began to eat. Some devoured the whole box of food while others ate sparingly. We later learned that this box was meant to feed us for the next three meals. After food, I decided to take a nap for 3 hours (what else is new??). I awake to the sound of my name being used in a conversation between Sean Longden and a couple of the Philippines. I don’t quite remember much immediately after that, but soon enough, the evening candle-lit vigil began. After the vigil concluded, various groups, including an AMAZING group from Washington D.C., performed on stage raising the morale and getting people dancing and moving. All this activity warmed not only the soul, but the body too for it was a mere 48° outside. After the groups all finished, things began to die down, and people started sleeping. However, the fire of the Holy Spirit (and the fire of all those candles) kept some of us awake. All but two, Bill and I were asleep on the ground when the Germans began to (as usual) mess everything up and speak unnecessarily loud all around us. Ms. Hebert awoke and, with much agitation, SHUSHED the silly Germans. As those who were woken by this nuisance, another arouse when a large crowd of people from all over the world began to chant and clap and pound and carry on with their jolly selves. Despite this disruption, our fatigue of our long hike was enough to put us all back into a deep sleep.
The walk was a true test of faith for all of us especially when it came to working as a well-oiled machine in even the toughest of times; whether it was distributing the gear of the “older” pilgrims amongst the younglings, or providing simple moral support when morale began to run low. All-in-all, today was definitely a journey-and-a-half.
Today defined the “pilgrimage” part of this pilgrimage. It started “later” than usual. We woke at 0715 for breakfast, our last real meal before our journey. We savored every last bit of it and then prepared our stuff for the walk. We all met downstairs and departed for St. Patrick’s church for our mass with the rest of Boston, Cardinal Sean included. After the beautiful ceremony, we gathered in the courtyard with the rest of Boston for a photo opportunity with the Cardinal. After our quick photo-op, we departed. As we began walking back in the direction of our hotel, we caught glimpse of the other 938,924,374,298 people slowly filing across the bridge. We walked towards Darling harbor and joined the 938,924,374,298 pilgrims on the exciting tour. We took a quick break at the Darling Harbor Convention Center to make use of the facilities and were quickly on our way. There’s not much to continue writing about about the next three hours; walking is walking no matter which way you look at it. Our next real challenge came about a mile away from the end of our journey. We came up on heartbreak hill; rightfully named so because of a 1/10 mile, 40° inclined hill that greeted us. With minimum struggle, from us “young” people that is, we conquered the hill. We were finally met by smiling, ever-so-happy, volunteers that made everything seem better with their words of encouragement. As we continued to get closer and closer to the racetrack, morale began to rise quickly. Upon entering the racetrack, we were quickly greeted be more volunteers who handed us our green bags containing our food. As we journeyed deeper into the racetrack, we came upon our plot of land. It may have been one of the further plots, but it was perfect nonetheless. We claimed our spots of where we were to sleep for the night, surrounded by Germans, Philippines, Hawaiians, and even more Germans. We opened our food and began to eat. Some devoured the whole box of food while others ate sparingly. We later learned that this box was meant to feed us for the next three meals. After food, I decided to take a nap for 3 hours (what else is new??). I awake to the sound of my name being used in a conversation between Sean Longden and a couple of the Philippines. I don’t quite remember much immediately after that, but soon enough, the evening candle-lit vigil began. After the vigil concluded, various groups, including an AMAZING group from Washington D.C., performed on stage raising the morale and getting people dancing and moving. All this activity warmed not only the soul, but the body too for it was a mere 48° outside. After the groups all finished, things began to die down, and people started sleeping. However, the fire of the Holy Spirit (and the fire of all those candles) kept some of us awake. All but two, Bill and I were asleep on the ground when the Germans began to (as usual) mess everything up and speak unnecessarily loud all around us. Ms. Hebert awoke and, with much agitation, SHUSHED the silly Germans. As those who were woken by this nuisance, another arouse when a large crowd of people from all over the world began to chant and clap and pound and carry on with their jolly selves. Despite this disruption, our fatigue of our long hike was enough to put us all back into a deep sleep.
The walk was a true test of faith for all of us especially when it came to working as a well-oiled machine in even the toughest of times; whether it was distributing the gear of the “older” pilgrims amongst the younglings, or providing simple moral support when morale began to run low. All-in-all, today was definitely a journey-and-a-half.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Resources
Here are some other sites that relate to WYD. Some are from the other Boston groups.
http://www.oymboston.org/HTML/wydboston.html Great photos
http://www.pope2008.typepad.com/ Great write ups that go along with our blogs
http://www.xt3.com/ official site on the ground
http://www.cardinalseansblog.org/ Cardinal Sean's blog
We will post our photos when we get to Hawaii. We have been non-stop since we arrived. The next 2 days are crazy. We leave first thing in the morning tomorrow and walk for 4 miles. We will have the overnight and then mass. We leave right after mass, get back to the hotel quickly pack, have dinner with Cardnial Sean in the hotel. We are bolting from dinner to the bus and heading to the plane. Boy, I hope showers are included in this plan. The weather forecast is good for the overnight and morning. Keep us in your prayers!
http://www.oymboston.org/HTML/wydboston.html Great photos
http://www.pope2008.typepad.com/ Great write ups that go along with our blogs
http://www.xt3.com/ official site on the ground
http://www.cardinalseansblog.org/ Cardinal Sean's blog
We will post our photos when we get to Hawaii. We have been non-stop since we arrived. The next 2 days are crazy. We leave first thing in the morning tomorrow and walk for 4 miles. We will have the overnight and then mass. We leave right after mass, get back to the hotel quickly pack, have dinner with Cardnial Sean in the hotel. We are bolting from dinner to the bus and heading to the plane. Boy, I hope showers are included in this plan. The weather forecast is good for the overnight and morning. Keep us in your prayers!
Pilgrim Blog: Day 8
Sean Egan
This morning our alarm clock did not go off but don’t worry mom we still got to have our waffle sticks and coco puffs. We went to the Sydney opera house to see a taping of a show on EWTN, a Catholic television show. Upon arrival we were briefed on all the things we could possibly be injured by and were sent to sit between the opera house and harbor. We met another group from North Dakota that also had very bright orange hats and had been planning their trip for three years doing tons of things to raise money like plays that were parodies. Everybody laid down on a slanted border on the harbor and slept while we waited for 2.371 hours and nothing happened at all. Seriously nothing happened. We left there a smidge after 11:00 and traveled to Barangaroo for Stations of the Cross and food. We walked through the park saying the rosary, doing tip drills, and taking funny photos. On the way we saw a didgeridoo player who I would rank #1 in my favorite didgeridoo players and had some wicked sweet beats. We got to our location after a long walk and got front row seats right on the fence which is like being behind the dugout of the event. Kevin Corey was making a list of all the countries we have seen so a few of us decided to sit outside the gate and go flag hunting. When we saw a flag we did not know Kevin Jones and myself would run into the mass of people and the person where they were from. However sometimes we would come with our information on the country with “I have no idea what that guy just said” or “They are from Colorado.” It was a ton of fun to run into the crowd and talk to people from every corner of the round world and try to understand what they were saying. When we got back the Stations it was completely packed but we had our spot and we did not even have to move for when the stations came by and we saw everybody perfectly with great pictures. It was exhilarating to see a live performance of the Stations of the Cross that traveled all over Sydney that touched a lot of people. After the event we traveled a long distance to Darling Harbour through a hodgepodge of people and went to the food court in the mall. In the mall most of us decided to go to the authentic Australian restaurant called KFC. We walked back to the hotel for rest, games and writing blogs which completed our long day. From sleeping at the opera house, to flag hunting, and Stations of the Cross it was one of the best days we have had on the pilgrimage. Yes, mom I’ll fix the alarm clock and be ready for the long night out on the race course.
This morning our alarm clock did not go off but don’t worry mom we still got to have our waffle sticks and coco puffs. We went to the Sydney opera house to see a taping of a show on EWTN, a Catholic television show. Upon arrival we were briefed on all the things we could possibly be injured by and were sent to sit between the opera house and harbor. We met another group from North Dakota that also had very bright orange hats and had been planning their trip for three years doing tons of things to raise money like plays that were parodies. Everybody laid down on a slanted border on the harbor and slept while we waited for 2.371 hours and nothing happened at all. Seriously nothing happened. We left there a smidge after 11:00 and traveled to Barangaroo for Stations of the Cross and food. We walked through the park saying the rosary, doing tip drills, and taking funny photos. On the way we saw a didgeridoo player who I would rank #1 in my favorite didgeridoo players and had some wicked sweet beats. We got to our location after a long walk and got front row seats right on the fence which is like being behind the dugout of the event. Kevin Corey was making a list of all the countries we have seen so a few of us decided to sit outside the gate and go flag hunting. When we saw a flag we did not know Kevin Jones and myself would run into the mass of people and the person where they were from. However sometimes we would come with our information on the country with “I have no idea what that guy just said” or “They are from Colorado.” It was a ton of fun to run into the crowd and talk to people from every corner of the round world and try to understand what they were saying. When we got back the Stations it was completely packed but we had our spot and we did not even have to move for when the stations came by and we saw everybody perfectly with great pictures. It was exhilarating to see a live performance of the Stations of the Cross that traveled all over Sydney that touched a lot of people. After the event we traveled a long distance to Darling Harbour through a hodgepodge of people and went to the food court in the mall. In the mall most of us decided to go to the authentic Australian restaurant called KFC. We walked back to the hotel for rest, games and writing blogs which completed our long day. From sleeping at the opera house, to flag hunting, and Stations of the Cross it was one of the best days we have had on the pilgrimage. Yes, mom I’ll fix the alarm clock and be ready for the long night out on the race course.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 7
Patty:
A Chaperon’s Perspective
Don’t for a moment think that this trip down under is a vacation. Despite being in a wonderful country, full of friendly people, and basking in mild 70 degree their winter sunshine, this pilgrimage is work for all, and not just those adults tagging along to insure the head count. We have all walked endless miles, sometimes being pressed by a tight crowd, to hear the word of God. We’ve all done a fair amount of soul searching, shows instances of growth and enlightenment, while participating in daily Mass, prayer services and discussions. In talking with Kathy Stebbins, one of the coordinators from the Archdiocese, I said, “I never realized just how hard a pilgrimage could be.” But as we heard from the Cardinal from Guam on Tuesday, the tiredness, the pain, and the keeping track of each other in a sea of 500,000 are all things that we can offer up to God. And these offerings have enhanced our experience and brought the group closer together.
Don’t for a moment think that this trip down under is a vacation. Despite being in a wonderful country, full of friendly people, and basking in mild 70 degree their winter sunshine, this pilgrimage is work for all, and not just those adults tagging along to insure the head count. We have all walked endless miles, sometimes being pressed by a tight crowd, to hear the word of God. We’ve all done a fair amount of soul searching, shows instances of growth and enlightenment, while participating in daily Mass, prayer services and discussions. In talking with Kathy Stebbins, one of the coordinators from the Archdiocese, I said, “I never realized just how hard a pilgrimage could be.” But as we heard from the Cardinal from Guam on Tuesday, the tiredness, the pain, and the keeping track of each other in a sea of 500,000 are all things that we can offer up to God. And these offerings have enhanced our experience and brought the group closer together.
In Boston Red Soxesque today was a double hitter. The morning started again with early breakfast: 6 AM. I could almost say these early calls are getting easier (except for Phin and Sean L). Almost, for I am grateful that breakfast tomorrow is at seven. (Thank you, God!) After eating, and gathering the troops, we headed out for Cardinal Sean’s catechesis. As the day before, we walked to the train station, hopped a ride, and then walked to the school auditorium where the session was being held. Warming up for the Cardinal was a very rocking out Lifeteen Band. The singer had us up, clapping, stomping, and having a lot of fun. This guy definitely knows how to make liturgy fun.
Except for the All Pilgrim Day I had never heard the Cardinal speak, so I was quite excited. He gave a wonderfully inspirational talk in which he discussed discipleship, carrying our own crosses and being a part of the body of Christ. He told us our life is all about gifts. And the giver is God. He said, “We allow God to be an anonymous benefactor.” And only when we take away his anonymity do we truly discover Him. The Lord wants us to make ourselves a gift to others. He warned us about the glitz that bombards us through the media. One quote that I found particularly thought provoking was, “More than Israel has kept the Sabbath. And the Sabbath has kept Israel.”
Topping off the session the Cardinal presided over a Mass that was very spiritually moving.
Next up in the double header was the Popes arrival. We had been assigned a great spot, (B1), right up next to the stage on the farside of the area called the Barangaroo. For the opening Mass we were at G1, so we thought we’d walk down the wharf, walk past G, and the stage and Bob’s your uncle, we’d be there. Not so, this was to be another pilgrimage experience. To ease the flow of 500,000 pilgrims they parted the troops and sent all those who were tagged to enter Gate 1 or 2 (us included) off the wharf, back up into the city and way around to the other side. We walked for over an hour; a walk we could have done in less than half that time by sticking to our original plan. Still by some miracle we arrived in our spot just in time to watch the Papal boat pull up to the dock. (Easier in the day we learned Cardinal Sean would be on the boat with him.)
The press of the crowd was overwhelming. The air was hot and thin. At times I thought if I picked up my feet I would be carried along in their press to be closer. But who doesn’t want to catch a close glimpse of the Pope? I’ll never forget his smile, and later, at our evening discussion, I wondered if we, as a crowd of 500,000 were more impressed with him, or if he was more amazed by us all standing there wanting to listen to his message, which was simply the youth are the future of the church. That the youth must keep God in their heart and do what is right.
Be proud of your pilgrims for they are all doing well.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 6
Kevin C:
Today at breakfast bright and early (6 am) I spilled eggs on my pants. I have successfully spilled thing on myself since the day we left for Logan Airport. We took the train to Chatswood and walked roughly 27.776 kilometers. This was a good experience because it was like we were walking in the shoes of the original pilgrims’. The frigid early morning dew was all over ground but soon after the sun shone upon our smiling faces. When we reached upon the church of St. Steven’s, we were warmly welcomed by wallabies’ aka helpers from California. A Franciscan by the awsomest name ever aka brother Colombo played the guitar and made multiple analogies to star wars which was awesome, I was waiting for Bill to come out with his sweet wookie noise. A quote that was dually awesome was “the youth of the world is the popes ‘laser’ (haha) to destroy evil.” The archbishop of Guam said the mass but before that he did a Q and A session and he helped me out a great deal by being the one and only person to define the Holy Sprit for the pilgrims, he defined it as basicly the backstage manager doing all the behind the scenes stuff.
Christopher West’s Talk on the Theology of the Body was in a full 3,000 person hall. He had an opening band that played some rocking songs not so rockingly. However, he was an active speaker. He ran up the isles to give hugs, smooches and high 5’s to people who participated. He gave a difficult topic an easier way of understanding to ‘dem youngings.
Mr. Willitts = Awesome :) he makes us laugh.
Thanks and prayers
Today at breakfast bright and early (6 am) I spilled eggs on my pants. I have successfully spilled thing on myself since the day we left for Logan Airport. We took the train to Chatswood and walked roughly 27.776 kilometers. This was a good experience because it was like we were walking in the shoes of the original pilgrims’. The frigid early morning dew was all over ground but soon after the sun shone upon our smiling faces. When we reached upon the church of St. Steven’s, we were warmly welcomed by wallabies’ aka helpers from California. A Franciscan by the awsomest name ever aka brother Colombo played the guitar and made multiple analogies to star wars which was awesome, I was waiting for Bill to come out with his sweet wookie noise. A quote that was dually awesome was “the youth of the world is the popes ‘laser’ (haha) to destroy evil.” The archbishop of Guam said the mass but before that he did a Q and A session and he helped me out a great deal by being the one and only person to define the Holy Sprit for the pilgrims, he defined it as basicly the backstage manager doing all the behind the scenes stuff.
Christopher West’s Talk on the Theology of the Body was in a full 3,000 person hall. He had an opening band that played some rocking songs not so rockingly. However, he was an active speaker. He ran up the isles to give hugs, smooches and high 5’s to people who participated. He gave a difficult topic an easier way of understanding to ‘dem youngings.
Mr. Willitts = Awesome :) he makes us laugh.
Thanks and prayers
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 5
Joanna:
Today was the official start of WYD. I am excited to finally come together as a faith community. The city has been crawling with happy foreigners singing their crazy songs. The day started very early with breakfast at 6:30 and the bus tour at 7.
The bus tour took us through the suburbs of Sydney. I loved the architecture of the buildings and houses. The most beautiful stop was the Rocks. We then went to the surfer’s beach: Bonai beach. I wanted to put my toe in, but I put both feet up to my knee. Thankfully there were no sharks in the water.
We then traded the bus for the boat and shared a boat ride with the pilgrims from NYC, Connecticut and Minnesota. I took some great photos of the opera house, light houses and the bridge. The boat was 2 levels and we came together on the first floor and sang and danced to several popular songs like the WYD theme and Sweet Caroline.
But the main focus of the day was the mass and youth festival. The mass was 2.75 hours long. There were over 200,000 people. Archbishop Pell from Sydney said the mass. We were lucky to have good seats between the nuns from Korea, the people of France, the Italians, Colombians, and the Poles. Archbishop Sean had a great seat behind the alter. There were over 6 huge 50x50 screens that showed us what was happening. After the mass we all came together for a huge concert. We were dancing like fools! Joanne, Peter, Steve, Phin, Kevin C, Kevin J, Maria and I taught various groups to dance the Pony (this is not the 1960’s version!). We had dancers from Wisconsin, California, England, Poland and other countries. But then the Germans messed it up. The event was big and loud.
We closed the night was an awesome pyrotechnic and firework show. The blasts were load and colorful.
Overall this was my favorite day. For now on we pray the creed and say ‘one, holy, catholic and apostolic church’ we will always think of this mass and celebration.
Today was the official start of WYD. I am excited to finally come together as a faith community. The city has been crawling with happy foreigners singing their crazy songs. The day started very early with breakfast at 6:30 and the bus tour at 7.
The bus tour took us through the suburbs of Sydney. I loved the architecture of the buildings and houses. The most beautiful stop was the Rocks. We then went to the surfer’s beach: Bonai beach. I wanted to put my toe in, but I put both feet up to my knee. Thankfully there were no sharks in the water.
We then traded the bus for the boat and shared a boat ride with the pilgrims from NYC, Connecticut and Minnesota. I took some great photos of the opera house, light houses and the bridge. The boat was 2 levels and we came together on the first floor and sang and danced to several popular songs like the WYD theme and Sweet Caroline.
But the main focus of the day was the mass and youth festival. The mass was 2.75 hours long. There were over 200,000 people. Archbishop Pell from Sydney said the mass. We were lucky to have good seats between the nuns from Korea, the people of France, the Italians, Colombians, and the Poles. Archbishop Sean had a great seat behind the alter. There were over 6 huge 50x50 screens that showed us what was happening. After the mass we all came together for a huge concert. We were dancing like fools! Joanne, Peter, Steve, Phin, Kevin C, Kevin J, Maria and I taught various groups to dance the Pony (this is not the 1960’s version!). We had dancers from Wisconsin, California, England, Poland and other countries. But then the Germans messed it up. The event was big and loud.
We closed the night was an awesome pyrotechnic and firework show. The blasts were load and colorful.
Overall this was my favorite day. For now on we pray the creed and say ‘one, holy, catholic and apostolic church’ we will always think of this mass and celebration.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 4
Phineas:
I and the rest of the group have finished our first full day down under. We spent most of the day walking around Sydney to various locations, exploring Sydney, saying "hello" to every group we saw for World Youth Day. So far, I think we have encountered people from Italy, Spain, Australia, Germany, Scotland, Ireland, France, Nigeria, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Korea, Vietnam, just to name a few. Keep in mind WYD has not officially started yet. Luckily, we have discovered how to upload photos onto this blog and situated below are the first pictures we have so far from today, all taken by myself.
Walking over to Darling Harbor for the first time, and stylishly showing off our awesome, flaming hats.
While at St. Mary's Cathedral, we were lucky enough to view the relics of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.
Took a nighttime walk further into Sydney Harbor and saw the Opera House, as well as the "coat hanger" bridge across the harbor.
Koala! We took a trip to Sydney Wildlife World right on Darling Harbor to see numerous animals, insects, birds, and reptiles native to Australia
Dinner at Nicks on Darling Harbor. Chicken, and only Chicken.
I and the rest of the group have finished our first full day down under. We spent most of the day walking around Sydney to various locations, exploring Sydney, saying "hello" to every group we saw for World Youth Day. So far, I think we have encountered people from Italy, Spain, Australia, Germany, Scotland, Ireland, France, Nigeria, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Korea, Vietnam, just to name a few. Keep in mind WYD has not officially started yet. Luckily, we have discovered how to upload photos onto this blog and situated below are the first pictures we have so far from today, all taken by myself.
Walking over to Darling Harbor for the first time, and stylishly showing off our awesome, flaming hats.
While at St. Mary's Cathedral, we were lucky enough to view the relics of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.
Took a nighttime walk further into Sydney Harbor and saw the Opera House, as well as the "coat hanger" bridge across the harbor.
Koala! We took a trip to Sydney Wildlife World right on Darling Harbor to see numerous animals, insects, birds, and reptiles native to Australia
Dinner at Nicks on Darling Harbor. Chicken, and only Chicken.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Pligrim Blog: Day 3
Bill:
The seed that falls on fertile soil will reap a fruitful harvest
This was the responsorial psalm for mass tonight, it pertains to the pilgrims, but let me back up.
Even though I have the smallest day to write about (5 hours thanks to the International Date Line), there has been a lot happening.
As a mighty river starts with a small mountain stream, so has our journey grown. Each of us started on the 11th in our own house as one pilgrim, some met at Logan Express to make 12, and we then came together at the airport as 16. At the gate we joined 34 more from the Archdiocese, In Atlanta we joined another small group, in LA we woke up to a sizable contingency in the lobby. When we boarded in LA, the number grew again.
The flight from HI to SYD was when it started to hit me. Charlotte and I sat behind the excited Mexicans (when are Mexicans not excited). The Long Island, NY Yankee-loving, group was a few rows ahead and the entire 767 was going to WYD.
On the ground we arrived at the hotel at 10pm Sunday. We had mass in the upstairs lobby. Five priests concelebrated the mass in a cramped space. There were roughly 150 of us from Boston, Connecticut, and New York (and I mean the heart of NYC). The mass was great, albeit, we were exhausted, but we were all in the same boat, pilgrims in a foreign city sharing a common experience.
Individually, each of us has been called to Sydney for reasons large or small. Our hearts and minds are open. There are lots of smiles on the groggy faces. I am proud of the sacrifices everyone has made to get us to this point. I cannot wait to see how this story unfolds…Stay tuned.
The seed that falls on fertile soil will reap a fruitful harvest
This was the responsorial psalm for mass tonight, it pertains to the pilgrims, but let me back up.
Even though I have the smallest day to write about (5 hours thanks to the International Date Line), there has been a lot happening.
As a mighty river starts with a small mountain stream, so has our journey grown. Each of us started on the 11th in our own house as one pilgrim, some met at Logan Express to make 12, and we then came together at the airport as 16. At the gate we joined 34 more from the Archdiocese, In Atlanta we joined another small group, in LA we woke up to a sizable contingency in the lobby. When we boarded in LA, the number grew again.
The flight from HI to SYD was when it started to hit me. Charlotte and I sat behind the excited Mexicans (when are Mexicans not excited). The Long Island, NY Yankee-loving, group was a few rows ahead and the entire 767 was going to WYD.
On the ground we arrived at the hotel at 10pm Sunday. We had mass in the upstairs lobby. Five priests concelebrated the mass in a cramped space. There were roughly 150 of us from Boston, Connecticut, and New York (and I mean the heart of NYC). The mass was great, albeit, we were exhausted, but we were all in the same boat, pilgrims in a foreign city sharing a common experience.
Individually, each of us has been called to Sydney for reasons large or small. Our hearts and minds are open. There are lots of smiles on the groggy faces. I am proud of the sacrifices everyone has made to get us to this point. I cannot wait to see how this story unfolds…Stay tuned.
Pilgrim Blog: Day 2
Sean L:
The phone rings, and we’re all tired. It is 4:45 AM in Los Angeles. We all rush to take quick showers. We all get downstairs by 5:25, and have literally three minutes to eat. The shuttle we go on is packed. We get to LAX by 6:05. The entire archdiocese of Boston happens to gets its own lines for check in. It takes two hours of waiting in order for everyone to get checked in. Joanne, herself, happened to be checking in for twenty minutes because of her last name being spelled on the visa. We were running behind schedule. We had come close to missing our flight. Five of us happened to go ahead of the group to make sure the flight didn’t leave without us. We had some really good beggars and nice airport staff because the staff pushed the rest of us through TSA. We were about to go on the runway for takeoff when a pilgrim from another group happened to leave their medications and purse inside the airport. That gave us an hour delay.
We had five minutes in between the arrival and boarding time, so we had a little rush. We had some good meals on the flights. The movies happened to be hilarious to most of us(mainly from sleep deprivation).We saw some beautiful sunsets as we were heading west from Honolulu to Sydney, a approximate ten hour flight. The day had its up’s and down’s as it went on. But now looking back at the bad things, they seem funny. We will remember this is a pilgrimage, not a vacation; and that there is no complaining - only fun!
Mahalo: Thank you
The phone rings, and we’re all tired. It is 4:45 AM in Los Angeles. We all rush to take quick showers. We all get downstairs by 5:25, and have literally three minutes to eat. The shuttle we go on is packed. We get to LAX by 6:05. The entire archdiocese of Boston happens to gets its own lines for check in. It takes two hours of waiting in order for everyone to get checked in. Joanne, herself, happened to be checking in for twenty minutes because of her last name being spelled on the visa. We were running behind schedule. We had come close to missing our flight. Five of us happened to go ahead of the group to make sure the flight didn’t leave without us. We had some really good beggars and nice airport staff because the staff pushed the rest of us through TSA. We were about to go on the runway for takeoff when a pilgrim from another group happened to leave their medications and purse inside the airport. That gave us an hour delay.
We had five minutes in between the arrival and boarding time, so we had a little rush. We had some good meals on the flights. The movies happened to be hilarious to most of us(mainly from sleep deprivation).We saw some beautiful sunsets as we were heading west from Honolulu to Sydney, a approximate ten hour flight. The day had its up’s and down’s as it went on. But now looking back at the bad things, they seem funny. We will remember this is a pilgrimage, not a vacation; and that there is no complaining - only fun!
Mahalo: Thank you
Friday, July 11, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 1
Kevin J:
Today I woke up in one city and ended in another across the country. The arrival to the airport brought excitement for the trip and eagerness to go to sleep. We spent 6 hours in airports waiting and 6 hours in airplanes flying. During this time we got closer as a group. Charlotte pulled out the Apples to Apples game in the Atlanta airport and we played in a random gate.
Lunch was Chic-fil-a, Cinnabon, and other notorious lunch spots. We all wore our green shirts and awesome, flaming hats. We could be seen from Sydney as we walked through the terminals. Notable stars along the way were Shawn Michaels (WWE) and the tall twin brother from last year’s Stanford Cardinal basketball team.
I am pumped for the rest of the trip. We have mastered the planes, but we have another 16 hours in the air. It is 11 pm and wake up call is 4:45. Gotta go! Hey mom, send $$$.
Today I woke up in one city and ended in another across the country. The arrival to the airport brought excitement for the trip and eagerness to go to sleep. We spent 6 hours in airports waiting and 6 hours in airplanes flying. During this time we got closer as a group. Charlotte pulled out the Apples to Apples game in the Atlanta airport and we played in a random gate.
Lunch was Chic-fil-a, Cinnabon, and other notorious lunch spots. We all wore our green shirts and awesome, flaming hats. We could be seen from Sydney as we walked through the terminals. Notable stars along the way were Shawn Michaels (WWE) and the tall twin brother from last year’s Stanford Cardinal basketball team.
I am pumped for the rest of the trip. We have mastered the planes, but we have another 16 hours in the air. It is 11 pm and wake up call is 4:45. Gotta go! Hey mom, send $$$.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Pilgrim Blog: Day 0
Joanne:
Around one and a half years ago (or maybe more? I'm not quite sure), Mrs. Willitts asked me if I wanted to go to Australia.
Hold on...repeat that, please. Australia?
I wasn't actually too sure until the night of the informational meeting, when I told my parents I'd like to attend. I attended, and signed up. I was on board. Oh, the things I was on board for...
We sold calendars, raffled off countless Sox tickets, manned (womanned?) the yard sale, and served an Irish dinner to the parish...after which we had a special dance party with Wally, the Green Monster.
So why did we raise so much money? What's it all about, Alfie?
I should probably figure out if I quoted that song correctly.
The fundraising is for our pilgrimage to Australia. Note: I said pilgrimage. Not vacation. We'll be meeting up with Catholic youth from around the world to celebrate our faith.
Let's stop and reflect on that. Catholic youth...from around the world! Maybe my high school French will finally come in handy!
But in all seriousness, I am very much looking forward to our journey. From the who-even-knows-what-time-it-is flights to an overnight vigil on a racetrack with the pope, I know every part of this pilgrimage will hold something amazing for at least one (or maybe even sixteen) of us Dragaroos (a rare species that comes into form when a dragon becomes friendly with a kangaroo).
I can't really describe what it will be like, except I know it will be a wonderful experience.
And with all this 90 degree weather we're having, I can't wait for Australian winter!
Around one and a half years ago (or maybe more? I'm not quite sure), Mrs. Willitts asked me if I wanted to go to Australia.
Hold on...repeat that, please. Australia?
I wasn't actually too sure until the night of the informational meeting, when I told my parents I'd like to attend. I attended, and signed up. I was on board. Oh, the things I was on board for...
We sold calendars, raffled off countless Sox tickets, manned (womanned?) the yard sale, and served an Irish dinner to the parish...after which we had a special dance party with Wally, the Green Monster.
So why did we raise so much money? What's it all about, Alfie?
I should probably figure out if I quoted that song correctly.
The fundraising is for our pilgrimage to Australia. Note: I said pilgrimage. Not vacation. We'll be meeting up with Catholic youth from around the world to celebrate our faith.
Let's stop and reflect on that. Catholic youth...from around the world! Maybe my high school French will finally come in handy!
But in all seriousness, I am very much looking forward to our journey. From the who-even-knows-what-time-it-is flights to an overnight vigil on a racetrack with the pope, I know every part of this pilgrimage will hold something amazing for at least one (or maybe even sixteen) of us Dragaroos (a rare species that comes into form when a dragon becomes friendly with a kangaroo).
I can't really describe what it will be like, except I know it will be a wonderful experience.
And with all this 90 degree weather we're having, I can't wait for Australian winter!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
alt="Click for Sydney, New South Wales Forecast" height=108 width=144>Facebook Anyone?
If you have a facebook account, search for the Dragaroo group. For the link, click here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=24576148104
Assignments for Blogging
At our meeting last night we agreed (in principle) with having each of the pilgrims and chaperones blog on a specific day during the trip. Each day will be represented and we will all post our post trip experiences. Check back throughout the trip for photos and updates. Thank you for supporting us with thoughts, prayers, money, and good wishes.
List of scheduled Bloggers:
Pre Trip Joanne
10-Jul Kevin J
11-Jul Sean L
12-Jul Diane
13-Jul Bill
14-Jul Phin
15-Jul Kevin C
16-Jul Joanna
17-Jul Patti
18-Jul Sean E
19-Jul Paul
20-Jul Charlotte
21-Jul Stephen J
22-Jul Maria
23-Jul Leslee
24-Jul Peter
Post Trip Everyone
List of scheduled Bloggers:
Pre Trip Joanne
10-Jul Kevin J
11-Jul Sean L
12-Jul Diane
13-Jul Bill
14-Jul Phin
15-Jul Kevin C
16-Jul Joanna
17-Jul Patti
18-Jul Sean E
19-Jul Paul
20-Jul Charlotte
21-Jul Stephen J
22-Jul Maria
23-Jul Leslee
24-Jul Peter
Post Trip Everyone
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Why a blog?
The blog site will be used to communicate to parents, friends, sponsors, and the rest of the parish community. We plan to give a different day to each pilgrim. At our next meeting we will assign a day that each pilgrim is responsible for. Thanks for checking in.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Welcome
We are within 100 days of our trip and we have settled on this web location for our blog entries. Check early and often for updates.
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