I will start out by talking about the news media that may have reached you by now. There was a 'supposed' riot at a plaza during WYD yesterday. It was actually at a plaza very near to our hostel (100 yards away). However, none of our group was there at the time. The information that I know about this group, is that (1) their priority is economical (Spanish), and (2) there were joined by other groups that have stances contrary to Catholic. The police were aware of this demonstration, and cleared it out quite quickly. There are about 1.5 million Catholic here, and it sounds like there were about 300 demonstrators. They, quite honestly, are just looking to stir up anger and paint WYD in a bad light in the media outlets, and then use that as a platform for their social cause(s). I heard about 20 people were cared for (bruises and scrapes), but all in all, it was a lousy attempt at pushing a cause. Anyway, as a safety precaution we are sticking to much larger groups (instead of 2-4, more like 10-15), and making sure that a cell phone is with all group at all times. This is not hindering our World Youth Day experience at all, we are just pilgrimaging smarter. No need to worry. ;-)
I digress...
Yesterday, in the morning, as with every WYD, we went to Catechesis. Our Catechesis site is a large stadium (about Joe Louis size; 18-20,000), and the music and reverence is incredible. I have videos, and I'm sure people have pics too (when I get home). Following Catechesis yesterday, we visited a couple of the large Churches in Madrid. Both were beautiful, but it is tough to compare to the Churches of Rome too. From there, we trekked over to Detroit Diocese Mass (@Mikey: Ironically only a few blocks from the Michael Voris event, but no he wasn't there). The Mass was nice. As always, it was nice to see some familiar faces, and to meet our new Bishops. From there, most of us went to the MarianFest, an incrediable gathering of talks and music, just to honor Mary.
Now today, Catechesis was again very nice. After Catechesis, about 1/2 of the group left to get a spot to see the Pope, the other 1/2 stayed with me for a series of talks on Theology of the Body. The talks were mostly headed by Jason Evert (who I am COMPLETELY impressed with), but he was joined by several experts from around the world. I only wish it could've lasted longer. For the Pope-chasers, it sounds like they had some trouble finding the right spot for his motorcade, but finally found a place where the Pope would pass twice!!! Also, Carrie compared (and was completely impressed by) the energy and 'pushing' that was experienced in Toronto when JPII processed. They also experienced a minor miracle... Apparently, we have some semi-claustrophobic people in our group, and naturally that doesn't mix with 'pushing' crowds. I guess Bryan was REALLY getting frustrated. An old priest in the area noticed, and placed the sign of the cross on his forehead and shoulders, and immediately a bubble of space formed around him, until they got through the crowds. GOD BLESS GOD!!!
As always, thanks for the prayers, and support. We are truly experiencing a once in a lifetime experience, and God is working his miracles (like me sneaking in a nap)!!!
God Bless!!!
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Since then members of the movement, also known in Spain as the "indignants", have staged daily demonstrations where they try to gain access to the square but are blocked by rows of riot police backed by a helicopter.
Over 200 police were deployed Thursday for the third straight day to close the Puerta del Sol square and prevent demonstrators angered over the government's handling of Spain's economic crisis from occupying it again.
why would they need 200 riot police and a helicopter to control 300 protestors?
I'm not sure how the security math was done. There is a much larger police presence now then there was the day of the 'incident'. Preventative, perhaps?? Anyway, things seem to be good now, and we're heading to the vigil tomorrow. Pray that there are no troubles there either. Pray that these peoples hearts turn to the Lord, and his Church.
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