World Youth Day USA Guides Stateside Pilgrimage Leaders Guide | Page 65

different from their own, but they may still be

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

able to enter into dialogue and experience
with people of other cultures. Many stateside

Immediate Follow-Up for Pilgrims

events can include some sort of cultural piece

Any World Youth Day pilgrim (stateside or

that celebrates the music, dance, and food of

international) will to need to process the

the international host country (Poland).

experience on a variety of levels. Some of that
has hopefully been done throughout the

In addition, there could be opportunities for

experience itself. Opportunities for small

stateside pilgrims to meet people from

group conversations and reflections,

different cultural experiences in North

journaling, and quiet prayer are highly

America. Whether that diversity comes from

encouraged as part of any pilgrimage

geography (rural, urban, suburban), cultural

experience (stateside or international).

origin (European, African, Hispanic, Asian,
Native American), class (rich, middle class,

At the conclusion of the event, pilgrims

poor), or region (East Coast, West Cost,

should be reminded that, when they return,

Midwest, South), there are plenty of

there is an expectation that all participants

opportunities to engage with various

will share their experience with their

populations. If your stateside event does not

community of origin (whether that be their

include these options, it may be something to

family, friend network, parish, diocese,

consider in the planning process.

campus, workplace, or movement). This
can be done by writing reflections to share in

Understanding how World Youth Day is a

communications; via social media; preparing

celebration of catholicity (universality) helps

a formal presentation for parishioners,

leaders to better create an experience that

ministry groups, or Catholic events; or sharing

allows people to reflect on their own culture

of few words about the pilgrims’ experiences

and put that in dialogue with other cultures,

and thanking the local community for their

all in the light of Christ.

prayers and support. Spending time planning
some kind of reflection, whether done

Understanding the degree to which stateside

formally or otherwise, is incredibly helpful

pilgrims are exposed to such diversity will be

for both stateside and international pilgrims

helpful to know how this conversation will

as they return from the experience and back

unfold with international participants.

to everyday life.
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