As you all know, WYD Rio‘s last mass was celebrated last July 28th. Since we’re not there to physically celebrate with them, the Catholic youth group in Sydney organized a Rio Experience that day to celebrate with them. The moment I saw this ad in the Parish Bulletin, I quickly signed up.
It started 8:00am at Mary Mackillop’s tomb at North Sydney. We were gathered there for a morning prayer and briefing of what will happened for the rest of the day. Afterwards, we all went out to begin the pilgrimage.
We walked from Mary Mackillop’s place down to St. Benedict’s Church in the city. It was about 11km walk from North Sydney. We started praying the rosary when we are at the foot of the Harbour Bridge. However, since they didn’t bring a speaker phone, we didn’t hear the prayer leader lead the rosary. I just walked and get to know other youth who joined the pilgrimage.
We arrived in St Benedict’s Church, the oldest Catholic Church in Sydney after 1.5 hours. We had morning tea and settled for a while. We watched a live telecast from Brazil via XT3. After a while, the speaker, Dr Robert Tilley about the holy trinity.
After the talk, we had Benediction & Adoration as well Confession at the Church.
Then we had an amazing Brazilian Lunch and had time to mingle with the other youth.
After that sumptuous lunch, we were back at the hall to hear the Pope’s message. However, they are still in the Vigil so we didn’t get to really hear his message to the youth.
And Gary Pinto shared and showcased his singing talent.
We ended the celebration with the Holy Mass.
It was definitely one of my great adventures in Australia. I’ve been wanting to be part of another WYD experience and that day made it happen.
“Go and be disciples of all nations” – Mt 28:19
So now, who’s going to Poland?
Leave a Reply