WYD08: “So this is what it feels like to be the Pope!”

Kris Dmytrenko

July 15, 2008
Courtesy Getty Images
That's how International Liturgy Group leader Eden d'Souza described participating in the WYD Opening Mass procession. Carrying the Canadian flag, I too shared the experience of walking through the gate into the roaring crowd. I can tell you that it was one of the most exhilarating moments of my life, not to mention one of great pride for my country.
Surrounded by Catholics from every nation, I remembered how events like these cannot be adequately conveyed through statistics or even images. World Youth Day is a feeling.
As I walked towards the stage, I was delighted to see many maple leaf-adorned pilgrims sharing in that feeling. Canadian leadership was present, too. As you watch the Mass, keep an eye out for Archbishop Thomas Collins and Archbishop Richard Smith, heads of the Archdioceses of Toronto and Edmonton, respectively.
S+L will re-air the Opening Mass at 9 AM and 8 PM (Eastern Standard Time). Kicking off the broadcast, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's laudatory speech and the extraordinary Aboriginal musical/dance performance should not be missed.