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On Wednesday and Thursday of World Youth Day week, I went to the Love and Life site for Catechesis.  Catechesis during WYD is a time for small groups (of about 150) to gather for learning and worship.  One component of the day is praise and worship music and short meditations.  The main activities of the day are a talk given by a bishop and Mass celebrated by him.  Both catechizing bishops gave inspiring talks about the Holy Spirit and the Church.  Young people were invited to ask the bishops questions after their talks.  It is a unique opportunity to have this one-on-one time with a bishop and everyone seemed to get a lot out of it.  

My Catechetical Site was lead by the Sisters of Life and the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.  It was really cool to see the friars again because they have always had a special role in my life.  They led retreats I went to in high school, run the Campus Ministry at Catholic University, and my favorite place in Italy was Assisi.  The Franciscan charism and example of the holy men in their order has been very influential in my spiritual life.  Needless to say I was happy to once again pray with and listen to the friars.  The Sisters of Life were absolutely beautiful.  All of them were young and full of joy.  It was refreshing to spend time with these happy sisters.  The Franciscan Friars and the Sisters of Life are beautiful examples of people who hear the call to Religious Life and respond; finding the joy of their true vocation.  I've heard it said that maybe we are not in a "vocation crisis," but a "response crisis."  I'm sure the witness of those religious inspired many young people to respond! 

After Mass, the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal Band (they rap, it's pretty cool) and Matt Maher performed.  I was amazed at both performers' unique talents.  The crowd was dancing and singing along to praise God with the music. 

After the concert, the Love and Life site offered various talks about sexuality and pro-life issues.  I listened to a talk exhorting young people to be active on the issue of abortion.  Msgr. Reilly gave the talk and it was very motivating.  In fact, the guy listening to the talk with me, who did not have a clear opinion on abortion, was so inspired that he now wants to be involved in the pro-life movement in his country.  It was a beautiful moment of grace to witness the pro-life message take root in this person. 

After the first day of Catechesis I had to go to a rehersal for the Final Mass.  I was chosen to read the English intention at this Mass.  The rehersal was long, tiring, and cold, but I kept reminding myself that it would allow me to participate in a liturgy with the Holy Father!  This certainly warmed my heart if not my fingers and toes!  

Soon to come...the Papal Arrival...

Peace and Prayers,

Annie

"Don't go through life, grow through life."