Evangelism. Growing up it was always sort of a dirty word to me. Its meaning lied somewhere in the realm between people fainting in a tent and some sort of forced conversion. It never seemed, to me, that it was something people chose for themselves. This week, that has changed for me drastically. Arriving in Madrid, I've seen flags literally from every corner of the Earth, and the people waving them have been so excited about the Catholic faith that I'm sure I'm not the only one it's rubbed off on. If that weren't enough, I've had the privilege of meeting and talking to an older couple that is staying in our hotel. Hailing from New Zealand, they've been to every world youth day since 1986. If my facts are correct, that's every world youth day. They are the most charismatic couple, excited to share the miracles they look for and find every day. Tales of accidental on purpose evangelist works in Communist China, Taize (sp?) chanting and spiritual encounters, and countless other. They really are ambassadors for our faith, and I find it no accident that we've met. I could probably go on, but my thoughts aren't forming into words at the moment. So I'll simply leave you with the musings of my fellow pilgrims!
Collin
Alex Ostroskie- today is the 2nd official day of world youth days and it is also my birthday. we are currently celebrating with cake and licking a large amount of stamps for post cards. today has been a eye opening experience for my faith in my god as well as my faith in knowing i have friends that not only care about my health but also care me as a person and i thank god for all of them. i miss all my friends and family currently at home but i know i will see them soon. the oddest thing i learned today is that subways are small and uncomfortable and riding in them is like getting a big sweaty hug from people you don't know:)? well i'm having an awesome time and i thank god for everything i have.
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We were blogging pretty consistently during our time in Italy, but busy schedules and long days in Spain have meant early nights. Rest assured, we are busy in the best possible ways. Our time in Madrid has been wonderful so far. Everywhere we go we see people from other countries, celebrating our faith in ways unique to their country. The Portuguese are probably the most spirited; they certainly are loud and proud! A close second is Brazil. As we walk through the streets or pack ourself into the subway we hear a symphony of languages - many are indistinct but they all blend into something that sounds a little like music.
It's amazing that our fellow pilgrims are from every corner of the world but they are all here for the same reason. And it's the beauty of "one, holy, catholic and apostolic church" that the only thing different in our experience is the language. Lucky for us, music knows no language. We're even learning some Latin, so we can pray the exact same words as those who founded the church years ago, and those from across the world who are praying them now.
We probably won't do much blogging in the next couple days - I'm sure I speak for all the pilgrims when I say that we're excited to come home and share all of our experiences with you!
Amy Sund
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buenos noches from madrid, Spain. The absence of the past few days of us "Pilgrims" writing back home, haven't been done on purpose, we have been just that busy. let me recall… yesterdays entry that I was going to post was put on hold until today because it was 11:30 madrid time and I just had to go to bed. The numbers were floating around between 430,000 some and 2 million people to the opening mass celebrated by the main celebrant cardinal of Madrid. I would have to say they surpassed the 2 million mark ( at least by my findings) there was no problem spotting people from other countries or in some cases other states. we were proud when we were passed by a group chanting USA, USA, and of course we did also ask where are you from, exchange gifts and meet some new friends. I was lucky enough to befriend a local spanish girl whom spoke decent english during the prelude to the opening mass but thats another story… in any event that was a overwhelming experience, plus the fact that so many people were present for the mass, in order to exit or re enter our spot you would have literally needed to fly over the crowd or body surf to our spot. pushing and shoving just was not really a nice thing to do… now that was yesterday, onto today… what a wonderful experience taking part in an early morning session on catechesis. we were spoken to by a group of sisters from new york specializing in taking in women whom are pregnant and haven't a place to turn taking care of all of their needs. we also were fortunate to hear cardinal pell of sydney speak along with celebrating eucharist for the group of 10 or 12 thousand youths. in the afternoon Mr. Conrad arranged a taize prayer experience which was quite different but quite enlightening once we understood what it was. it is worth looking into just google it they do have their own webstite. tomorrow and in the near future we will we welcoming the holy father himself. despite the crowds we are packing our patience, our hats and in some cases bedsheets. getting up early and coming in late to experience a privilege few get to experience. stay tuned! Jim Keller
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