Volume 19, Issue 11-12

Four self-guided Pilgrim Walks have been prepared for all pilgrims to take while here in Melbourne.

Each of us is on a journey to God.  We go on pilgrimage to strengthen our faith and find a path towards a deeper connection to Jesus Christ.

As you walk in faith during these days, we hope you experience the living Church here in Melbourne.

As you visit our many iconic locations throughout our city may you receive many gifts and blessings that only the Lord can give to each pilgrim heart.

Take this journey through the streets of Melbourne and experience all that Melbourne has to offer you as a pilgrim on your journey to World Youth Day. 

Go to the www.did08.com website to download the Pilgrim Walk pod-cast (audio guide with prayers and reflections to listen to on your walk)!

Ecumenical Stations of the Cross:
Melbourne is home to many cultures and religions. Pilgrims have the opportunity to pray the Stations of the Cross as they move from one Christian city church to the next. A series of Scripture and reflective questions are also available (via our pod-cast recording on our website) to allow pilgrims to really consider the meaning of the Cross in their lives.

Blessed Mary MacKillop Pilgrim Walk
Australia, particularly Melbourne, is very proud of its first saint: Blessed Mary MacKillop of the Cross. The Blessed Mary MacKillop Walk allows pilgrims to visit sites around the city that were of particular significance in the life of Mary MacKillop. As one of the patron saints of World Youth Day 2008, the prayers and reflections provided not only focus on the ‘providences’ of Mary MacKillop’s work, but also on Mary’s intercession.

Caroline Chisholm Pilgrim Walk
Caroline Chisholm is a household name in Australia. She is most famous for relieving the plight of men and, especially, women who landed on our shores at the earliest stage of European settlement. On this walk, pilgrims are encouraged to explore various significant places around Melbourne where migrants first landed. A special Caroline Chisholm art exhibition is also a key part of this walk.

Indigenous Reconciliation Walk
This special walk comprises three parts, each linked to the understanding of the injustices our Indigenous peoples have endured for generations and their prayer for reconciliation. Earlier in 2008, the Australian Government made a formal apology to the Indigenous people, marking the beginning of a new dawn in the future of Australia. Each of the three walks encourages pilgrims to reflect deeply on the power of reconciliation and the care we must employ in using the gifts of the earth. The walks were prepared by Betty Pyke of the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry.