It is now about 8am on Wednesday here in Madrid and World Youth Day has officially begun! Last night Cardinal Archbishop Rouco of Madrid celebrated the opening mass of WYD. Unfortunately by the time some of my friends and I arrived we couldn't reach the other Knights who had already arrived to stake out a place for our group. As well, it was beyond crowded as more pilgrims were trying gain access to the very crowded place around the Plaza de Cibeles where the mass was celebrated. Since our apartments are only about 2 blocks away we walked back and had to watch the mass on TV. However, the flip side of staying in was that, as soon as it ended, I was able to go to bed early and get some much needed sleep.
Yesterday our College Knights of Columbus group had the pleasure of eating lunch with the Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, his wife, Supreme Chaplain, Bishop Lori and his secretary Fr. Marcello. I was fortunate enough to be seated between Bishop Lori and Mrs. Anderson and really enjoyed their company. Before the meal concluded Carl Anderson spoke to us about the work we are doing here at the love and life center. He affirmed us in our work saying that not only are we pilgrims, we are also helping to facilitate the life changing experience others will have while attending this World Youth Day.Additionally, he encouraged us to continue to spread the good news of the Church as a part of the New Evangelization. In essence we can consider ourselves very much so a part of that push to reach out to others. Our society is very different today in that we are no longer a vertical society with a set hierarchy rather we are horizontal, which means we need people to spread the good news of the Gospel and the Church to all those around us. This insight Mr. Anderson provided was very helpful, especially in helping to put things into focus as we begin an event that can very easily become just about the spectacle and the big crowds.
Well, I have to head off to a group meeting now to prepare for our duties this morning and throughout the day. Please continue to keep us in your prayers and know you will be in mine.
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