WYD reunion plans to keep the salt - and faith - shaking

By RENATO GANDIA
WCR Staff Writer
Edmonton

The reunion, which features sharing stories and photographs, a talk from Archbishop Thomas Collins, a PowerPoint presentation and social will begin at 2 p.m. and will end with a Mass at 5 p.m.

In an interview before WYD, Collins told the WCR how crucial the follow-up is to this event.

"What is important is that as pilgrims come back and those that did not make it to Toronto, they will continue what they have begun," said Collins.

Collins also hopes for relationships that blossomed while preparing for WYD and Days in the Diocese to continue.

Strengthening the knowledge of faith, increasing devotion to the Lord and practical service to the poor will play an important part in continuing the journey, said the archbishop.

The festivals happened in Toronto, but the real life journey is just beginning and pilgrims need to be aware that the heart of WYD is to be practised in daily life, he said.

The archbishop hopes pilgrims will incorporate knowledge, devotion and service into their daily lives as Christians.

Talking about another follow-up event, Providence Sister Toyleen Fook, said, "The spirit in WYD is really high and I don't want it dead. Follow-up is important."

To provide young people the opportunity to continue their pilgrimage, Fook has designed a program to explore the Church today in the context of religious communities, and in particular her own congregation.

"The spirit in WYD is really high and I don't want it dead." - Providence Sister Toyleen Fook

The program called, Providence Pilgrimage, will be a time of reflection and faith sharing, Sept. 28 at the Providence Centre from 1 to 4 p.m.

Fook will present the life of Blessed Emilie Gamelin, who was beatified almost a year ago.

Blessed Emilie is an example of one Canadian, who embraced God's wish for her through compassionate work with the poor.

"In sharing her life with others, we are able to see how choices we make can make a difference."

Fook wants to highlight how Blessed Emilie became a light for the world and salt of the earth for the poor in the program. "This is one way we can continue on the pilgrimage that began with WYD."

Providence Sisters hope to attract participants from high schools, RCIA groups and just about any group interested in strengthening their faith journey.

Two more presentations of the program are slated on Nov. 9 and Dec. 7 and on Oct. 26 in Calgary. Please call 436-7250 to register.

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