To see the pope

Pope Benedict XVI comes past the Madion Diocesan pilgrims in his popemobile.

On Thursday, Aug. 18, Pope benedict XVI arrived in Madrid. He flew into the airport, where he was greeted by officials and a delegation of youth. From there, he was to come into Madrid proper, where he would be welcomed by the youth of World Youth Day and celebrate a short prayer service.

For those of us in the crowd, this was our first opportunity this WYD — for many, the first opportunity in person — to see the pope. The experience was anticipated greatly.

The kindness of strangers in Madrid

 

Pilgrims from Hong Kong, China, cheer as they and hundreds of thousands of others walk to the Opening Mass of World Youth Day in the center of Madrid.

I wrote yesterday of the wonderfully warm nature of the volunteers that welcomed us into our home-away-from-home in Velillas de San Antonio, but that story today expanded.

This morning we got a late start, heading out on the bus around 10:30 a.m. following breakfast. When we arrived in Madrid, we headed directly for the Plaza de Cibeles, where the opening Mass was to take place at 8 p.m. this evening. It was a large, open plaza completely cordoned off already from traffic, and as we arrived stands were still being erected and large screens placed.

In a shady spot on the north side of the plaza, we set up camp and dispersed into various groups for the day. Some pilgrims visited the Prado, the large and famous art museum that, during World Youth Day, is hosting an exhibit called “Images of Christ.” Others sought Eucharistic Adoration, and a few went to sightsee and perhaps do a little shopping. Fr. Eric Nielsen stayed behind on our little grassy spot to stake it out in preparation for the Mass.

Getting to know you

Tonight, July 12, members of the two groups going to World Youth Day from the diocese (the Camino Group and the Diocesan Group) are gathering for an informational session and get-together. As the date for departure nears (less than one month now!), the more the anticipation grows. It will be a great treat to get to know the other pilgrims going on this trip.

World Youth Day registration high; many want to volunteer

Young people gather for a Mass and concert May 8 at an arena in Madrid, marking 100 days until the start of World Youth Day 2011. Preparations for the international event in Madrid are heating up and organizers are promising a "fiesta," adding a Spanish flavor to the traditional opportunities for prayer, friendship, music and religious education. (CNS photo/courtesy of World Youth Day 2011)

In Spain, pope to hold nine major meetings with young people

Puerta de Alcala in Madrid, the symbolic main entrance to the city, is lit in blue in this evening view showing a fountain with the goddess Cybele in Plaza de Cibeles Nov. 14. Pope Benedict XVI will enter Madrid through this entrance for an evening recep tion in the plaza during the Aug. 16-21, 2011, World Youth Day in Madrid. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)