This will be a brief note as I have six minutes online in the hotel lobby!
We made it - there are now ten of us.
The reunion was sweet-bitter as our thoughts were so much with the full group. It was wonderful to hear from the six arrivals of your gathering last night. It is true, you have been on pilgrimage in such an unexpected (and undesired) way, but God has not missed the opportunity to work powerfully in you all.
Yesterday the pope heard of Our Lady of VIctories parish, Christchurch. The English speaking priest who presented us to the pope (along with thousands of others) read out our name. I didn't catch the pope's reaction, but if he knew our full story he would have invited us to lunch I'm sure.
Yesterday afternoon we celebrated Mass at the catacombs - the church of St Sebastian, chapel of St Fabian where the last pilgrimage also celebrated Mass. Sebastian. We have been through a taste of death in these weeks together. How could we live without the confidence in the resurrection. It was this that gave the lives of Sebastian and Fabian meaning.
This morning we have Mass at the tomb of St Peter. As always you all, and the many intentions we carry on behalf of so many, will be the intention of this Mass.
We will also pray for Bishop Barry and our Christchurch diocese. Yesterday in St Peter's square for the audience with Pope Benedict, was a wonderful experience of the beauty, vibrancy and diversity of Catholic faith.
Time up - more later
John
Thursday, May 6, 2010
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So, so pleased to hear you are all safely ensconsed in Rome. Have been thinking of you all constantly, and thank God that you are together. Just make sure the Holy Father has a direct line to God with a message that next time we all get through!!!!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy and be enriched by these last remaining days in the Eternal City. Wish we were there, as the postcards say!!
Love, Marie
Hello John and Pilgrims,
ReplyDeleteShortly I am going to Karitane to spend weekend with Fleur & Pat and to journey the last days of your pilgrimage together. What an inspiring time it has been. Thank you John for powerful, nourishing reflections. Have just been for a walk with Mark so shared the experience with him. He was like me filled with awe. Bless you on last steps. In appreciation Judith Anne op
Thank you JudithAnne for your comments - good to hear from you. Im delighted that Fleur and Pat will have good company in Karitane. Serious thought and planning is being given to a pilgrimage next year - it is our hope that they will join us.
ReplyDeleteBlessings & love
John