With a prayer and blessing we began our journey, leaving Portsmouth Cathedral 8.30am on Thursday 21st July 2016.
A group, little less than 100, coming together to take steps towards Christ.
The journey took us to Dover, we hopped on the ferry to Calais and drove along to Bruges. Arriving a little before the next local Mass at the Cathedral, we made a dash.
Bishop Philip celebrated Mass with Fr PJ and Fr Bon from our diocesan group, with the very kind parish priest from Bruges Cathedral.
We took a little time to grab something to eat before setting off for Cologne.
The coach has been filled with chatter, laughter and peace too (yes we have had some reflection time!).
Some have found the coach a little chilly too…
Today’s message from Bishop Philip’s homily was that we as Catholics are in union with one another, despite the tongue that we speak. Today’s Mass included parts being spoken in English, Flemish, Latin, Hebrew and Greek, yet we all celebrated together. Bearing in mind we are soon to arrive in Poland, we are likely to encounter Mass spoken in a language which we don’t understand, but during these times, it’s time for us to open our hearts and our ears, to follow and pray, for the Mass is universal.
Now we have reached Cologne, we will be settling down for the evening to rest, before heading on tomorrow. (Yes we arrived Friday morning!!)
Good night and God bless.
WYD2016 