Fifteen representatives from St. John’s University and the
Eastern Province of the Congregation of the Mission attended the
20th World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany, from Aug. 14-22,
2005.
The pilgrimage included a Welcome Ceremony with Pope Benedict
XVI along the Rhein River, an Opening Mass with Cardinal Meisner of
Cologne, a visit to the Cathedral in Cologne and attendance at
Catechesis where testimonies and witnessing to faith were
given.
Traveling with the Diocese of Brooklyn, the group had an
opportunity to celebrate Mass with Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio.
The group also took part in a Vincentian Festival in Dusseldorf,
where they encountered people from the worldwide Vincentian family
and had the special opportunity to meet and speak with Fr. Gregory
Gay, Superior General of the Congregation of the Mission.
Finally, the week culminated in a pilgrimage to Marienfeld for
an overnight vigil and Mass with the Pope where 1.2 million people
were gathered from around the world.