It didn’t rain! Of all the amazing things that happened at the Youth Pilgrimage this year, that was perhaps the most amazing of all. In the midst of the wettest Summer on record, we were able to enjoy the first dry Youth Pilgrimage since 1998!
 

And the 750 young people and leaders who gathered for the event certainly made the most of it. A fabulous new facility this year was the circus big top which became the setting for worship. The dark interior meant we could take full advantage of a wonderful lighting rig and first rate AV facilities. CJM Music wowed us as ever with  stunning music and beautiful dance. The Comfort Zone Café provided a hang-out and the best hot chocolate in Norfolk. Bishop Lindsay was in tip top form with his Bible studies and other teaching input. The workshops offered experiences as varied as African Dance, sumo wrestling, stained glass window making and touring the Milner Wing building site in the company of the site manager. (Many of the older girls opted for that. Wonder why?)

Our theme this year was the Holy Spirit, the one who challenges us to leave our comfort zones and live in the Comfort Zone of a spirit-filled life. Mary was a constant example to us as one who, when overshadowed by the Spirit, became the Godbearer and a witness to her faith.

The heart of the Pilgrimage was, as always, the daily Mass where we focussed on some of the stories from the Acts of the Apostles to explore the Spirit who makes Jesus Present, the Spirit who heals and forgives, the Spirit who gives us gifts for ministry and the Spirit who sends us out as witnesses. Another high spot was the late night liturgy where the young pilgrims were able to share in the healing gifts through Sprinkling with water from the well and the laying on of hands.

But it’s not all about praying. The parties were rocking, starting off with the BBQ and Dance night on the first night, ending with the unforgettable Karaoke and a staggering performance of ‘We’re Soaring, Flying’ from High School Musical performed by the Ministry Team.

One of the loveliest memories that people will take back was simply the sense of happiness and contentment on site. The young people simply enjoyed each other’s company, and thanks to the unstinting efforts of Affinity, our first-rate event management company, they felt safe and secure on site, an experience which is sadly a rare one for so many young people.

It was a phenomenal week. So amazing that every young person aged eleven or over simply mustn’t miss next year. August 4^th – 8^th 2008.

 Publicity out in December. Be there!