Faithful to fly for day of Catholic spirituality

With a little faith and a prayer, a group of Kimberley pilgrims departed Broome last week to embark on an extraordinary spiritual adventure.

The group said farewell to Broome last Thursday and headed for Madrid to take part in the 2011 World Youth Day pilgrimage.

The youth-oriented Catholic Church event, held every three years, has attracted millions of worshippers since it was initiated by Pope John Paul II in 1985. Youths from around the world are invited to come together and celebrate their faith.

The Kimberley group were accompanied by Bishop Christopher Saunders, parish priest Matt Digges, Father John Purnell from Balgo and Father Daniel Kilala from Beagle Bay.

First-time pilgrims were filled with nerves and excitement at Broome Airport, but for the veteran pilgrims among the group, the journey signified another opportunity to renew their spirituality and share their faith.

Broome local Arlene Manado said this year was her first pilgrimage.

“I’m looking forward to sharing the experience with others and meeting new people,” she said.

“It’s a chance for all of us to come together.”

For young pilgrim Soleil White, 16, Madrid marked her second pilgrimage after taking part in the 2008 Sydney WYD, she said she was thrilled to be taking part again.

“I absolutely loved it. You learn different cultures, and share the experience with other young people.

It’s mind-blowing,” Ms White said.