VERONICA and David Colch are among hundreds of Brisbane families who have opened their homes and hearts to international World Youth Day pilgrims – but thousands more are needed.
The Norman Park couple, already living with their children and Veronica’s mother and sister, will host two young Catholics from July 10 to 14 for Days in the Diocese.
And they’re encouraging others to do the same.
“We urge everyone to get involved and be part of the excitement,” Veronica said.
Veronica and David also anticipate they will learn from the visitors.
“We are looking forward to the time we will have to talk to the pilgrims and find out about them and their story… and what made them make the commitment to come to the other side of the world for World Youth Day 2008,” Veronica said.
While 959 houses are registered for BrizStay, a further 2000 are needed by May 31.
Brisbane WYD secretariat communications and marketing manager Bernadette Kreutzer, who has registered to host four pilgrims, said requirements for BrizStay were simple – “bed and breakfast for two people for four nights”.
“You don’t have to be what is considered a traditional family or Catholic.
“World Youth Day and Days in the Diocese is hosted by the Catholic Church but open to all.”
All 13,000 pilgrims set to arrive in Brisbane are aged between 16 and 35, a large contingency coming from the United States, Canada, Germany and Italy.
As part of the Brisbane WYD secretariat’s campaign to recruit hosts for visiting pilgrims, The Catholic Leader will publish a progress indicator on page 2 each week from now until the end of the campaign.
