The highlight of the event was the palm procession and the Way of the Cross. Each station of the cross (enacted) was portrayed naturally, with deep emotions and solemnity. The finale was amazing and powerful in transmitting the message of the cross to everyone.
One remarkable reaction was the enthusiasm of the delegates to go for confession. In fact, most of them stayed at the confessional longer than the allocated time.
The participants commented that the WYD 2009 celebration was very refreshing and enriching for their spiritual life. The pilgrimage increased their faith and brought them closer to God. As many delegates did the faith sharing, all were able to bring positive change in their life. The participants expressed that as they recited the prayers during the live Stations of the Cross and at the Holy Mass they felt the calmness and warmth which elevated them to the scene of the first sacrifice that Jesus offered at Calvary. "It was as if Jesus, our King and Redeemer, had made a home in each of our hearts and there was this beauty and grace of knowing that Jesus was so close and we wanted to be with Him and feel His pain and love - this reflected through the whole service. Everything from the singing to the Eucharistic consecration, spoke of the fact that each one was joined in the universal hymn of love and praise to Jesus."
The organisers and the accompanying catechists expressed that in spite of having fun activities they have never seen the youth behave so well before.
WYD 2009 is another memory to cherish, to share with friends and to tell again and again. The camaraderie among the volunteers was beyond expectation and the response of the delegates overwhelming. Everyone was eager to extend a helping hand and most of all, ready to work again for the next event.
The Working Team consisted of various youth groups: Jesus Youth, Konkan Yuva, Singles for Christ, Youth of El Shaddai, FILCOM Youth, JOC Dubai (Arabic Community), New Life Youth Choir, Come Alive Youth and the parish catechists.
The youth expressed their appreciation to our Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Peter for his trust and guidance; to Rev. Fr. Freddy, Rev. Fr. Varghese, Rev Fr. Stanley, Rev. Fr. Raj and Rev Fr Franklin for their support, participation and prayers.
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