August 16, 2005
Our day began with a moment of prayer prepared by our U.S. friends, focusing especially on praising God for God’s creatures – we continued this with our friends of the Evangelical Church.
We had the opportunity to dialogue with them, finding – besides our differences – that we have much in common. This prompted within us the desire to deepen our friendships. We then concluded with a simple prayer.
At lunch time, we walked toward the food distribution center – at least that is what we intended to do ...
We walked so much that some local girls, seeing how hungry we were and feeling sorry for us, gave us some fruit, candy and chocolate – how sweet of them! After eating a good plate of pasta with peppers, a bit over-cooked (by then it was 2:48 pm), we left to go back to the stadium in Cologne, where the much awaited WYD began.
The Cardinal Archbishop of Cologne began his talk by remembering our beloved Pope John Paul II, who is present here from above and looks upon us, and who, together with Pope Benedict XVI, brought us here.
The homily invited all of us youth to welcome the message that “Jesus is Lord, not only of the Church, but of the whole world...”
The day ended with great songs and group dances, which involved everyone, and with a short walk back to Elizabeth House (only two and a half hours...). Tired, but happy, we will write to you again tomorrow...
