This meeting took place at the Domain, a property located not far from Saint Mary's Cathedral where the Holy Father has stayed for the past five days.
- Texts of the Holy Father's parting greetings will be published in the coming days on the Vatican website
Following his meeting with the ecclesial authorities and the volunteers, his motorcade made its way to the airport where he met with civil authorities to speak words of thanks to all those who played a part in supporting World Youth Day before boarding the Qantas Airlines flight which is now bearing him and the 27 other members of his party, in company with about 50 journalists on their way back to Rome. The flight will make a stop in Darwin for refueling and then continue directly to Italy.
In the coming days, weeks, months and years, the fruits of this WYD gathering will become known in the lives of pilgrims who listened to the words and teachings of the Holy Father and other bishops who provided catechetical leadership; who participated in the various liturgies which were windows unto the sacred throughout this week; who met new friends, and discovered the call of Christ to pay heed to the presence of the Holy Spirit which empowers us all to live as his disciples.
We give thanks for all the blessings received in the words of the WYD2008 theme song: Alleluia, receive the power of the Holy Spirit; receive the power to be a light unto the world!
3 comments:
Thank you for posting such informative blogs for those of us who could not attend. I am sure all those who did make it, young and older, will be touched by the grace of the Holy Spirit.
I am reminded of the words from the song "Again" by D. Cochran, "We'll have this moment forever, but never again".
May the Holy Spirit that filled those youth who were present and those in the world who followed these events, always be part of each day for us, as we all recognize that we cannot live this excitement again except for in our hearts and our memories.
Thank you for the gift of your words and your presence over the course of these days. You brought us all closer to WYD.
WYD 08 looked absolutely fascinating on T.V.! I watched both the vigil and closing mass. What struck me were the youth's energy, enthusiasm and charm that have become a hallmark of WYD. I have witnessed this at several WYDs in the past:the joyful spirit of the event is the same yet always like a breath of fresh air. Looking forward to attend the next one in Spain. VIVA WYD!:) Thanks Fr. Tony for posting and for your characterstic photo shoots.:)
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