“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you”World Youth Day
– the big event has come and gone! So much planning and preparation and prayers in the lead up to the arrival of thousands of young pilgrims from every corner of the globe! A truly “catholic” experience. And then the arrival of the Holy Father. Then came the week itself. As each day unfolded, the joy and sheer goodwill just multiplied, culminating in the final mass at Randwick. In the midst of the big event was the Marist presence, small but effective. From the Tuesday morning to late Friday night, a band of Marist Family volunteers were on hand to welcome pilgrims to the historic Marist site of St Patrick’s Church Hill, bordering the Rocks area of Sydney. Enthusiastic young people from many countries draped in their flags or singing songs, were warmly invited to come and see our sacred space. Entering the crypt, pilgrims were struck by stunning banners of Marcellin Champagnat, Jean-Claude Colin, Francoise Perroton and Jeanne-Marie Chavoin telling them something of the founders of the Marist enterprise. Our Marist Laity banner was also there! A volunteer was there to answer any questions and to hand out pamphlets in 6 different languages. The sacred prayer space became a haven of stillness and silence, such a contrast to what was happening on the streets of Sydney. Relics of St Peter Chanel (a rib placed in a beautiful reliquary) plus a monstrance of St Marcellin, in which the Blessed Sacrament was placed, as well as a relic of Marcellin were place on the raised platform along with two banners showing powerful images of these Marist saints. Soft, meditative music played continually giving people the opportunity to pray, ponder and wonder the mystery that is God. Then it was out to the Marist Tent, offering tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Every couple of hours guest speakers gave powerful input on different topics. Amongst the speakers were Donna Mulhearne, a peace activist, Br David Hall fms and Br Cesar Henriquez. In between speakers we were entertained by musicians and singers. There were many moments of grace and links made as Marist volunteers spoke with and listened to stories shared by pilgrims. I witnessed many scenes of people in deep conversations or just happily chatting – being Mary’s presence to these young, searching pilgrims. I would like to especially thank those lay Marists who volunteered their time, energy and their boundless Marist spirit at St Pat’s during World Youth Week. You all looked great in those blue Marist jackets. And weren’t they needed on those cold July nights!! I’d also like to acknowledge all those other lay Marists who worked behind the scenes in their own parishes, cooking, serving, billeting and transporting pilgrims. You, too, were a powerful presence of Mary to all who met you!
|
|
