Some Shared Thoughts

The following are some reflection thoughts given by some of our pilgrims about their experience of World Youth Day and the Church.

"Being around so many other young Catholics reinforced my faith. In today's society especially on college campuses it can be difficult to stay connected with your beliefs and with God."

"It would take a book to fully describe my experience at World Youth Day. It was an opportunity to open my heart to what God had for me and to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Through my experience I realized how universal the Catholic Church is. Seeing all different countries coming together in faith regardless of whether the countries were at peace or not was an awesome thing to experience."

"After all the World Youth Day events concluded, we sat in the Botanical Gardens in Sydney alone. I was positioned on a bench in front of a path. On one side of the path was a small shrub and on the other end was a huge tree and as I went down that path my faith just exploded inside on me and I had a new beginning."

"There was an amazing experience of the TRUE universal Catholic Church at WYD. The Holy Spirit was truly present and working in all those participating. I brought home a sense of security and a greater trust in the Lord. I feel renewed in my faith and filled with the knowledge that the Lord of all wants me to be a witness to His people."

"There are really no words to describe our experience of WYD. I think the easiest way to describe it is through our actions. Hopefully, we can pass along our excitement to be a Catholic and happiness to have a strengthened relationship with Jesus."

"Words can not describe the many AMAZING experiences of World Youth Day 2008. I have received courage and a whole new appreciation for my faith. God has truly filled my heart with His love and friendship. I now know there are so many more people out there that I can share my faith with. I am no longer afraid!"

"WYD 2008 was a joyous, inspiring and very heart warming experience. It brought moments and memories that made my faith grow. Seeing the pope, sharing Mass with people from around the world and living in Kiama and Sydney were all totally worth it! Sharing faith, loving God, praising the Lord, the people, the places, the beautiful times shared, all helped me grow in my faith! Thank You!"

"World Youth Day reminded me that our faith is novel, new, young and energizing. The global expression of our faith is especially invigorating because we know and see that it is full of life in many places. I also know that having made the pilgrimage, God has blessed me with a gift if His Spirit."

"WYD was the most amazing experience of my life. Not only did we get to learn the culture of Australia, but we also got to spend time with awesome host families and see beautiful sights. Most importantly, we got to share our faith with people from all over. Constantly learning and growing with the help of the Holy Spirit"