Just under a month ago I was having supper with a friend when a text message arrived from Fr Stephen Langridge. “James,” it said, “I’ve arranged for you to read the Gospel at the welcoming ceremony for the Pope at WYD. Let me know if that’s a problem.”
Once I had regained consciousness and got back up on my chair, I replied that I would be more than happy to help and yesterday evening, here in Madrid, that amazing opportunity became a reality.
[. . .]
As the papal entourage entered Plaza de Cibeles, more than half a million young adults from five continents erupted with cheers of welcome: “Viva! Viva!.” Faithful to the Church, hungry for Christ, and with a deep respect for the papacy, the volume showed just how vibrant and alive the Catholic Church is among the young, and especially how much they love and revere Pope Benedict.
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| Photo: Mazur/Catholicchurch.org.uk; article author Deacon James Bradley being blessed by Pope Benedict XVI in the Plaza de Cibeles. |
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