From Australia: More from Maria

10 July 2008

Maria Brennan is a parishioner at Clifton Cathedral and she’s just began a memorable trip to Australia for World Youth Day (WYD). Maria’s keeping a diary for cliftondiocese.com and this is her second entry.

First full day with colleagues from Clifton, Portsmouth and Plymouth dioceses who arrived late last night - they all seemed remarkably well given the long journey. Very favourable reports on the new Airbus 380 used on the London to Singapore sector.

This morning started with concelebrated Mass at St Simon’s in Rowville - I emailed over some pictures for you.  Mass was followed by activities to help us get to know each other including pilgrims from Jersey. We shared information about our respective cultures - amazing diversity with links to Ireland, Poland, Kenya, Philippines, Vietnam, Portugal and more.

After baked potato lunch, travelled by bus and train to downtown Melbourne - as you can see from our pictures - and then a visit to Melbourne Museum where we were entertained by Aboriginal dance group.  I got a snap of the dancing. 

Later had a guided tour of St Patrick’s Cathedral by young seminarian Matthew who impressed with his wonderful knowledge and spirituality.

Free time included chance to eat and visit to Federation Square for snatch of concert before return to host families … and some heavy rain to make us feel at home.

I’ll write again soon.

Maria Brennan

Maria’s previous diary entry.

Meet more of our WYD pilgrims.

Keep with cliftondiocese.com for regular WYD reports from our young pilgrims direct from Australia and Maria’s diary.