August 20, 2005, Day 13
Pilgrimage log
Today we slept in the latest yet – 10am. We didn’t need to be on the bus until Noon, but our gut told that we should always have a wake-up time (teens everywhere like to prove this). We packed our bags for our overnight adventure to come, and hit the road. David and Roberto dropped us off around 4 miles from Marienfeld, the Vigil site. We didn’t walk very far before deciding to stop and buy some ice cream, well, and use the bathroom. As we continued on, the crowds became thicker. We took advantage of the next set of tents to buy some good ol’ German brauts. We continued on, wading through the crowds to Marienfeld. Arriving at our section, we find the whole area packed. We searched around and found a small section, perhaps 12’ x 18’ for our group that was approximately ˝ mile from the main stage. And the only reason this “large” spot was available was because it was all muddy and watery. Luckily we bought a tarp yesterday, which covered most of the muddiness. Later we would realize that our close quarters were a good idea because it was very cold during the night. After setting up camp, people walked around, looked at the front stage, which we were about ˝ mile away from, traded and talked with other pilgrims, bought food, etc. More people showed up than were expected so they ran out of food boxes. Some of our people did get some, so we were able to share and make due. About seven o’clock we noticed security lining up along the path next to our section. This usually signals that the pope will drive by later, but this turned out to be a false alarm – the pope did tell us later that he would have liked to go by each section to greet us, but space and time didn’t permit. We settled down for the Vigil, which included Evening Prayer, a candlelight prayer Vigil, and adoration. They brought out a giant bell as a memorial to Pope John Paul II, which I believe will be used at future World Youth Days. The ceremonies were very beautiful with great music. The service finished around 11pm, and then everyone settled down to sleep. The temperature was much cooler than anyone expected, but luckily the Red Cross people were handing out blankets to keep people warm. Aside from not having enough food boxes, everything has been done very smoothly this entire week. The German people have been great hosts, very prepared for everything.
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