The JCI!!!

Blog 24 07 07:
It was such an amazing and rewarding experience travelling with The Cross and Icon throughout the Palmerston North Diocese. We were so immersed in the youth, culture and faith of our area.

The Cross and Icon had crossed so many oceans, been up mountains, inside nightclubs, been amongst poverty and absorbed so many prayers in so many tongues. It was so powerful to know that these same symbols of God’s love were here in New Zealand, within our reach and in our guardianship. So many people gathered to touch The Cross and it is evident that it has touched so many hearts in return.

The JCI was a immeasurable experience. No words or photographs could really capture the emotional and spiritual experience we were exposed to on our journey. However, the memories will always be imbedded in our hearts. From the beautiful prayerful liturgies… to the display of powerful culture and faith…. to lively street walks… to celebrating youth through the art of Krumping!!

The Cross had a true sense of belonging in each area we visited. Each welcome was so special and unique and the symbols were really embraced. Although the Cross and icon were only in one place for a short amount of time I was amazed at the connections that were made and the attachment people had with it.

I feel that being part of the journey of the Cross and Icon really gave me enlightenment to what a pilgrimage is. Yes, there were long hours, long treks, times of frustration, times we truly had to work as a team and unite and at times we had to be courageous and step out and be confident of who we are and what we believe in. However, these challenges were so character building and a true sense of achievment and self-worth was nurtured. It was such a fruitful and rewarding experience because I learnt alot about God but also myself. I have never appreciated my culture, upbringing and faith so much.

I found out that it doesn’t matter where you are, what time of the day it is, if there are two people present or two thousand - God can be present in such an altruistic and special way. (It really reinforced to me good old Mathew 18:20!)

Now Just a few thank yous!!!
- I want to thank Dave for his dedication, organisation and toleration!! (hehe) Dave has been such a corner stone in the preparations of World Youth Day....
- Thanks to the AMAZING Dio team .. Katrina Van de Water, (who has given so much time towards making the Palmerston North JCI such a success!) Jonny Boon and Lynette Roberts-King who travelled with the cross throughout our region - good times! Also, a warm thank you to John Haami, Marie Hall and Atiria Atlam for their assistance.

Each region made the JCI so special and unique. Thank you so much for the time and energy you have donated!!!

Hawke’s Bay: Bill Dysart, Ron Allen, Fr Paul Kerridge, Will Foley
Taranaki: Clare Whareaitu, Michael Holmes, Fiona Dravitzki, Michelle Schaare
Whanganui: Helen Dogherty, Jayson Herewini, Tony Bouterey
Manawatu: Kathleen Field, Fr Craig Butler, Murray Adams

Finally, my utmost and sincere appreciation to all those that were involved in this amazing event in what ever way, prayer or participation - God bless - you are awesome! I hope your journey towards WYD 08 is going well!!!

Jane