The first major event of WYD began today! The Pilgrimage to the Cathedral opened today, highlighted by the unveiling of a commissioned painting of Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Help of Christians. Since the renovations and cleaning of the Cathedral was completed just the other day, this was the first time I have been to the cathedral as it will be seen by thousands of pilgrims. The cathedral is worth a trip in its own right, but there several other reasons why pilgrims will want to spend time in this quiet place of prayer. In addition to the painting of Our Lady, the relics of Blessed Mary MacKillop and the body of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati are present there surrounded by wonderful displays that tell the stories of their lives. In the crypt below, a series of icons surround the Eucharist exposed for Adoration. Across the street, reconciliation is offered to all who desire the sacrament.
The opening of the Pilgrimage was well attended by the media and many young people, both from Sydney and fresh off the plane from their home countries. In fact, all day today, new arrivals huddled in conversation along the Sydney waterfront. In every group, I saw the words of St. Benedict (whose feast day is today) present: Jesus is to be the center of our lives. This idea, which he lived so well, are so clearly evident in the parks and public spaces around the city center now that the pilgrims have arrived. My own excitement is now building for the experience it will be for them . . . and for me.
St. Benedict, Blessed MacKillop, Blessed Frassati, and Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Help of Christians – pray for us!
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