We arrived in London waiting eagerly to see Pope Benedict XVI celebrate the Mass in Westminster Cathedral in London.
The celebration of Mass was very special, with youth from numerous dioceses across the country gathered in the Piazza, exhilarated by the presence of Our Holy Father. As a representative from London said, "You seemed to just be a face we saw on the television, but now we've met you, it's truly strengthened our faith".
The priests kindly distributed Holy Communion to all the youth gathered in the Piazza. The priests, we clearly recognised due to their bright yellow and white Papal umbrellas (and of course their white collars!)
It was a spectacular event, celebrating the intrinsic value of the Blessed Sacrament that Jesus left for us. I think it helped the faithful youth of the this country to appreciate our beliefs as Catholics more wholly.
After the celebratory Mass, the Pope then came out to greet all the faithful, particularly the youth gathered at his feet. It was a spectacular moment, with screams of admiration and joy echoing around the Piazza.
Seeing the Pope truly was an inspirational moment, particularly with the words of hope and wisdom he had for us, emphasising our responsibility to recognise our vocation and stand up to be the future generation of Christian love and spirituality.
In the afternoon, we trekked about 3 miles, off to Hyde Park, (complete with police escort!) in anticipation of the Vigil and again of Pope Benedict's presence.
Presented by Carol Vordeman and Frank Cottrell Boyce the preparation show was one full of joy as dance, singing and culture came together to celebrate the Pope's visit.
Members of Wrexham's youth represented our diocese by carrying a flag in the long procession of parishes and dioceses across the country.
Finally, the Pope's arrival at six o'clock was welcomed with whole-hearted appreciation both from the Faithful lined in the streets, eagerly stretching to get the smallest glimpse of the Pope travelling in his unique PopeMobile! The atmosphere in Hyde Park, in the Golden Circle of youth and in the crowds stretching far back right into the park was amazing, and the screams erupted on seeing the Pope and his tight security.
A Welsh flag miraculously made its way next to the Pope!The Pope literally came within metres of where we were sitting - we were able to almost touch him!
The Pope celebrated the evening Vigil with us, and venerating the Blessed Sacrament was very special, as the atmosphere was full of reverence and respect.
All in all, a fantastic day in which we all truly were able to express our faith in unity with all the youth in the country, and feel part of something uniquely special. A lot of scepticism surrounded the Pope's visit, but it truly proved to be an event full of love and joy, in which the Catholics of Britain were able to appreciate this gracious opportunity.
I want to thank everybody for granting me this fantastic, unique opportunity. It was an once in a lifetime event, and something I am eternally thankful for experiencing. It was a refreshing aspect of my faith, and the memory will remain with me for many years to come! I'm glad I could share it with you.
God Bless,
With love and prayers,
Stephanie Redfern Jones
Thanks for sharing that wonderful account, so good to hear from someone from our diocese who was there :)
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