Welcoming WYD Cross and Icon
On Sunday morning, 1st July I accompanied State President, Catherine McGrath to Sydney Airport hangar No.9 for the arrival of the World Youth Day Cross and Icon, a portrait of Mary, the Mother of Christ and the child Jesus. The invitation was extended by His Eminence, Cardinal Pell.
The hangar was abuzz with excitement as the invited guests, clergy and dignitaries arrived. Bishop Anthony Fisher OP welcomed the Prime
Minister, The Hon. John Howard and the Premier of N.S.W. Morris Iemma, Archbishops and Bishops, the laity and the young people from New Zealand, who had accompanied the Cross and Icon on its journey across the Tasman Sea, and the delegation of youth from Australia who were waiting to receive the Cross and Icon on Australian soil.
Elsie Heiss, (Co - ordinator of the Aboriginal Reconciliation Church at La Perouse), gave a traditional welcome on behalf of the Aboriginal community. Bishop Fisher OP said the arrival of the Cross and Icon heralds the countdown to World Youth Day in Australia next July.
"It is therefore a special time for Australians to be custodians of these simple, yet powerful symbols" Bishop Fisher said.
The WYD Cross and Icon will now commence the Journey throughout every Diocese in Australia. I encourage all of you to participate in the Days in the Dioceses and pray for the success of this wonderful event. Encourage as many young people as you can to be part of this faith journey.
Catherine and I had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister and many of the dignitaries. It was a privilege to represent you, the women of Catholic Women's League, Archdiocese of Sydney at this historic event.
For information on World Youth Day go to the website: www.wyd2008.org
Report: Moya Potts
