This morning, we packed our sleeping equipment, extra food, and positive attitudes for the hike to Marienfield. Our buses took us as close as they were allowed, and we began our walk! We walked through two small towns where the local citizens greeted us from the windows and doors, offering us water and candy. As we got closer to our destination we merged with pilgrims from all directions. Our designated sleeping area had already been well claimed, and yet we were pleased with the sleeping area that we finally found – close to a large screen, speakers, restrooms and water. Many took the late afternoon to explore, play cards or nap. In the evening, Pope Benedict arrived, led prayer and Eucharistic adoration. Following his departure, a few hymns over the speakers served as lullabies, the evening dew descended upon the pilgrims, and everyone hunkered down deep inside their sleeping bags attempting to gain as much sleep as possible.

Meghan Fahey

After the amazing act of travel it took to get to the field, the “Oklahoma Land Rush” was relived! Once everyone had their spot of land and food, the wait began. Flags were waved with increased ambition when the other clergy began to arrive. The whole place went nuts upon the Pope’s arrival in the popemobile. The wonderful mix of international songs provided the background music to the march of the picture of Mary and the Child, as well as the World Youth Day cross. The Pope seemed to have a constant smile and look of amazement on his face. It is no wonder when you see over 1 million people waving and chanting his name! Everyone seemed reverent and taken aback by the sounds and images displayed over the speakers and the gigantic screens set up around the filed. Although the only similarity that comes to mind is that of a refugee camp, hearing the Pope and hand-picked youth speak in so many languages in order to be heard and understood proves the reality of our Pentecost celebration. That with the presence of the Holy Spirit, 1 million people can come together and be understood and share a celebration with one purpose and one spirit.

Lizann Prozzer

This past week has been an experience of God in numerous ways. I found Him in many unexpected ways, especially through conversations with people from all over the world, like Iraq, Ghana, South Africa, and France. God was also present in a surprising way by putting many old friends in my path. There were 5 different times this week that I accidentally bumped into American friends that I was not looking for and had not seen in years! But the most wonderful and meaningful experience of God has been Christ’s gift of Mass almost everyday, in so many settings, but each time Christ filled our hearts and souls. The Eucharist was the central focus of last night’s prayer vigil with the Pope, and it was amazing to realize that Christ was right there in our midst, an even more honored guest than the Pope himself. Though the week has been filled with crowds and noise, adoration remains an intimate encounter with Christ – longing and loving, and receiving love and fulfillment in return. This week’s experiences had left me thinking of God, and saying “immer mehr” or “always more.”