Passionist USA pilgrims await Pope Benedict's arrival.
Pope Benedict greets the World Youth Day pilgrims before celebrating Mass.
Pilgrims (l to r) Erynne Davis, Jessica and Krystal Johnson
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Passionist Pilgrims Reflect on WYD
Preparing for my pilgrimage to Australia, I was full of anticipation. I had no idea what to expect. I was afraid because it would be my first time in a foreign country and my longest stay away from home. The thought of having to stay in someone else’s home in a foreign country was the most frightening idea of all. All of my fear changed to excitement when I finally reached Australia. My anticipation became joy after I met my host mom and found out that I would be sharing a home (and room) with my sister. I was even more intrigued when I reached the Barry family’s home and met their daughter who was the same age as me. I was overjoyed to be welcomed with open arms into their home for a whole week. By the end of my first day I was wondering what was I so afraid of. I was now ready for the journey.
The Passionist Youth Encounter was a great spiritual journey for me. It helped me deepen my faith and my beliefs. The theme of World Youth Day, “Receive the Power,” really touched me. Meeting young Passionists from all over the world was a great experience. The week in Melbourne was a great social experience for me as well. I was touched by the story of a young woman in my contact group from South Korea. She tried her best to speak English and even taught me a few words in her own language. The week in Melbourne really inspired me to do give more to the world as well as other people.
On my first actual day in Sydney I was greatly impressed. I was intrigued by the sight of all of the different flags and the sound of so many languages. I felt overwhelmed to see all of those people in one place who share the same faith. I was also impressed by the generosity and kindness of the citizens of Sydney. The people who went out of their way to make us feel welcome. On the way to Randwick Racecourse it felt great to see the Sydney-siders standing on their balconies cheering us on. It gave me the strength to keep going when the walk became too much for me. Sleeping under the Southern Cross and waking up for Mass with the Pope was a fantastic end to a great week.
In Brisbane I was again welcomed into another home by a wonderful family. I was touched by the fact that our host mother, Sue, would wake up every morning and make us lunch. Visiting Stradbroke Island was a fantastic experience. The small community there reminded me of the community my parents grew up in. It felt good to have a reminder of home just when I was beginning to get a little homesick. Going to Christ the King Elementary School was the best part of my pilgrimage. The kids really think about things, and made us think as well. My pilgrimage to Australia really strengthened my faith in God. It really helped me spiritually and socially.
Jessica M. Johnson
