We started out in the morning with all our baggage claimed. After breakfast, we were off to Dachau to visit Germany’s first concentration camp. An orientation video was only the start as we took a tour of a barrack. We could only imagine the overcrowding and the oppressive conditions. As we continued, the shadows of dozens other barrack building were overwhelming as stuck one participant as “awe-full.” The presence of chapels and the Karmel Convent was reassuring after visiting the crematorium.

We were back on the bus and off to Altotting and a Marian Shrine. World Youth Day festivities are already underway as the town square was hosting a rally experience in many languages with skits and music. Our delegation gathered at St. Konrad Church for Sunday liturgy. Father Church Wyble presided and Father Augistine Inwang offered a homily encouraging us to make our World Youth Day a spiritual pilgrimage where we pray, consider our vocations, and seek God daily.

We then toured the very small town of Marktle, the birthplace of Pope Benedict XVI. We were greeted by members of the parish who invited us to sing in their chapel. We sang the Hail Mary as well as “Hush. Somebody’s Calling my Name.” to the delight of our hosts. We offered prayer in his home church for the Holy Father as he prepares for his first World Youth Day as the Pope.

At this evening’s delegation meeting, we commemorated today’s feast day of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, who was martyred at Auschwitz. Tomorrow promises to be a long bus ride to Cologne where we will remain throughout the rest of our travels.

Brian Bauer

Finding God, where does one look, how do they find faith?

Today in visiting Dachau concentration camp, these questions can be answered in one manner. Clearly, the only answer for those who suffered in this camp and others in situations like this is… faith.

The comfort afforded to them at night and in secret was the ability to pray to their God. Camp survivors and those that perished in this tragedy turned to God in a place where most would lose their faith and just give up.

Later today, Mass gave us an opportunity to reflect upon this morning’s emotional experience in Dachau. We have many faith questions to ponder. We did not answer all our question this day. We hope to continue examine our questions and seeking answers throughout our pilgrimage.

Kelly LaFleur

While visiting the town of Marktel, the birth place of Pope Benedict XVI.; I found God at the end a street in this small town where I was almost certain that no one spoke English. A lady came out of nowhere as we were standing in front of the church Pope Benedict was baptized in. She spoke in clear English, which was nice after a long day of trying to communicate with people through signs and gestures. Along with warning us about the bike trail she welcomed us to Germany and then later invited us to sing inside the church. This act of kindness and faith lifted not only my spirits but the spirits of many around me. I wish I had the chance to return the favor but she seemed very content with a smile and a thank you.