ON August 1, about 70 young Queenslanders will leave with Archbishop John Bathersby on a pilgrimage through the Holy Land on the way to the XV World Youth Day in Rome.
This pilgrimage and World Youth Day are set to be a highlight of Jubilee celebrations throughout the archdiocese and the world.
Preparation for this pilgrimage began more than 10 months ago with an announcement from Archbishop Bathersby that he would like to travel with the young people of Brisbane to the World Youth Day. Since then, that invitation has spread to the parishes and young people of Queensland who have replied with great enthusiasm and commitment.
More than 60 young people representing the parishes and deaneries of Brisbane archdiocese, along with several young people from other Queensland dioceses, have taken the challenge to walk in the steps of Christ, in the Holy Land, on the way to World Youth Day. Another 20 young people have also committed themselves to travelling direct to Rome for the World Youth Day celebrations with Pope John Paul II.
The response to the pilgrimage has surpassed all expectations and excitement is building as the pilgrimage and World Youth Day draw closer. More than 1000 Australians have booked and will be making the pilgrimage to Rome later this year. All eyes now look to the young people of Brisbane and the world with anticipation for what is tipped to be the biggest gathering and celebration in the Jubilee Year.
MALCOLM HART
