Yesterday Micahel and I arrived safely in Poland. We met our World Youth Day group shortly after taxing to our host parish. We are all staying with different families for a few days within the town of Sopot.
Being in Europe for over a month has proven helpful as the rest of our group is jet-legged. My host family has been incredibly gracious, and the group as a whole seems to be very excited for the days to come.
The first day was spent mostly relaxing on the beach. We had an early morning Mass followed by coffee and desserts. From the parish we went on a small hike that ended up on the beach. Many members went for a swim and others simply sat back and enjoyed the sun.
I spent most of my time talking with the two religious sisters who have joined our group. Through a weird series of events, two sisters from Nebraska have joined our pilgrimage. When I was talking with them it was evident that they love their vocation and that they are filled with joy. It is a blessing to have them as part of our group.
In the upcoming days we are headed to meet other members from our diocese, and pilgrims from around the world. We will join groups first in the city of Gdansk, before traveling to Krakow for the main events.
– Luke