World Youth Day 2019 USA Leader Guides International Leader Guide | Page 28

Madrid, carved scenes used in processions for travelers. Walking also gives pilgrims time to
Spanish feast days served as the images on the think, to pray, to sing, and to converse with
Way of the Cross, while in Kraków in 2016, others along the road. Leaders can help pilgrims
each station was represented in a dramatic and to treasure the walking, as well as the frequent
visual art tableau. The Via Crucis is unique and times of waiting that occur on the journey.
powerful because of this interaction between These moments of walking and waiting can be
Jesus’ Passion and the host country’s history. It seen as opportunities for pilgrims to open
is important to prepare pilgrims for this by themselves up to the graces of anticipation,
praying and reflecting in advance on the sacrifice, and expectation. This is more likely to
Stations of the Cross, particularly as they are happen if it is discussed in advance.
experienced in Latin American cultures. This
6. Be open to the Holy Spirit,
can help pilgrims appreciate and enter into the
prayer. Pilgrimage leaders can point out that
wherever he may be leading you.
Jesus continues to suffer as his people endure
crosses of injustice, violence, suffering, WYD is guaranteed to contain many
prejudice, persecution, and death around the unexpected moments – from life-changing ones
world. Pilgrimage leaders can connect the Via to minor surprises or frustrations. Pilgrimage
Crucis to the pilgrims’ lives, when suffering and leaders should anticipate this and help pilgrims
loss has entered their experience. adapt to circumstances with joy rather than
annoyance. For example, sudden changes may
Spiritual preparation is also important for the be made to the WYD itinerary without notice,
mundane aspects of WYD. One of those or the process to pick up your meals may not
elements is the constant walking: walking to be efficient. Some of the most memorable
catechesis, meals, central events, churches and moments cited by past WYD pilgrims were
sanctuaries, bathrooms, etc. Americans are surprises, that is, those things that were
often unused to walking so much, and leaders unplanned and unscripted.
can remind pilgrims to be in solidarity with
those in impoverished areas who routinely have This awareness does not mean abandoning
to walk to obtain work, food, drink, and shelter. careful or strategic planning; but it does mean
Walking as a group reminds pilgrims that they that adaptability is a value to highlight in the
are not alone, but in the company of fellow
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