World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney
Posted on 2008 under Celebrations/Festivals, Faith, Life down under |29 May
As a Catholic, seeing the Pope in flesh will be the height of my spiritual life. To be able to see the Holy Father up close is as good as it gets as chances of us making a pilgrimage to the Holy Land is currently out of our reach. World Youth Day 2008 is to be celebrated in Sydney this year and there is a lot of hype going on and in preparation, and in anticipation of His Holiness’ arrival.
World Youth Day was initiated by Pope John Paul II in 1984. And the largest crowd ever gathered for this event was in Rome in 2000 where approximately 2 million people gathered together. For the event in Sydney, they expect about 500, 000 to turn up and fingers crossed, we will amongst the throngs of people as well. The last time the Pope stepped foot in Sydney was in 1995.
Pope John Paul II visited Sydney in 1995 to beatify the Venerable Mother Mary of the Cross, MacKillop (1842-1909). And I believe Ted didn’t miss this chance to catch a glimpse of the Pope. In fact, he even has the paper cutting of this visit plastered on Arianna cupboard, it was his back then. 
I don’t really know what to expect but I can imagine what it’s going to be like.
An upside down standing ovation for the organisers as I personally think that it’s passed the point of balding to be part of this huge event. I can’t even imagine what these people are going through, the stress and pressure must be just beyond words! As for me, I’m just wondering how the heck are we going to get there, lugging Arianna along. Everyone has been strongly encouraged to take the public transport which will be the main mode of getting to and from the site. Randwick is going to burst with the number of people who will be coming for this. Aiyo….I’m already tension thinking of this now and the Pope is only coming in July!!!
Anyhow, I really am looking forward to this mega huge event because as I said, this maybe the only chance for me to catch the Pope in action and how often do you get the chance to check out the Popemobile??? 
Picture from Beliefnet - ain’t it one of a kind? 
by Jemima, on May 29 2008 @ 10:57 am
Wish I was there.
Jemima’s last blog post..I’m currently hooked on…
by Yvy @ Sweetest Sin, on May 31 2008 @ 10:02 am
still early - can still make plans to come over.
by Mama BoK, on June 3 2008 @ 9:03 am
I bet it was awesome..!!
Mama BoK’s last blog post..What Special Day Is It At The Store ..?
by The ultimate SUPPORTer | Little Cozy Corner, on July 12 2008 @ 9:01 pm
[...] Benedict is flying into Sydney for WYD 08 today!!! [...]