World Youth Day USA Guides International Pilgrimage Leaders Guide | Page 73

leader to bring comfort and encouragement.

outward from their pilgrim group, always

Convey to them that the best way to revisit

inviting others to share in their ongoing journey

their mountaintop experience is to share the

of faith – including friends and family, fellow

core message of mercy and compassion with

colleagues and students, and those who do not

those who were unable to travel to Kraków –

share their Catholic faith.

yet not in a “you should have been there”
manner, but a truly invitational measure that

Rather than separating themselves from those

allows others to contribute and participate in

who do not share their passion for God or the

the ongoing pilgrimage of faith.

exciting experience of World Youth Day, it is
important for pilgrims to deepen their

Many pilgrims come back eager to share their

friendships and connections with their peers,

story. Storytelling is a key part of the initial days

friends, and family. It can be tempting for

back home, and it should be done in a way that

pilgrims to say phrases like “you should have

invites others to consider and share in the fruits

been there” or try to proselytize those who are

of the journey. Even though people may want

uncertain about faith, but such actions should

to hear the stories and experiences of Kraków

be avoided. Rather, Pope Francis challenges a

pilgrims, there may be some jealousy among

missionary disciple to accompany his or her

those who were not able to travel overseas. So

peers with a listening heart and a gentle spirit

such storytelling should be done in the context

rather than to push their vV