WITH only one WYD08 training day to go in Brisbane archdiocese, a crowd of 400 attended last weekend’s instalment in Upper Mt Gravatt.
St Paul’s Theological College president Fr David Pascoe continued “pilgrimage themed” presentations with “God’s hospitality and ours – an open invitation”.
He spoke of the importance of extending the arm of welcome to all, with World Youth Day being a certain opportunity to do this.
John Sweeting, from Pilgrim Services, addressed the “Participation in Sydney” stream while Greg Sunter, who is chair of the Participation in Sydney working group, looked at where pilgrim groups should now be placed in terms of preparation.
A stream on “Beyond WYD planning” was headed by project co-ordinator Malcolm Hart with an opportunity for young people to share past pilgrimages.
The Days in the Diocese component of the workshop highlighted all the latest with BrizStay, including the unveiling of a “how to” hosting manual and a spotlight on local events.
Afternoon sessions focused more on post-WYD08 events and strategies.
The final training day is scheduled for June 14 and will include a commissioning Mass where group leaders will be presented with a pilgrimage staff by Archbishop John Bathersby of Brisbane.