SYDNEY – September 25 2007 – 160 words
World Youth Day cross taken to the Great Barrier Reef
The World Youth Day cross and icon have been escorted by the Royal Australian Navy to the Great Barrier Reef.
The HMAS Wollongong transported the 3.8m cross and icon to the Reef, berthing at Fitzroy Island for a special prayer service. The cross was then ceremoniously dipped into the ocean.
A team of 30 people were aboard the HMAS Wollongong, including members of local government, Church dignitaries and youth representatives.
“It is such a privilege for us to take the Cross and Icon that have touched the lives of so many, to one of Australia and the world’s greatest natural wonders,” said Father Neil Muir.
Today, the cross and icon will leave the Cairns diocese for the Northern Territory.
The cross and icon arrived in Australia on 1 July 2007, and will continue its year-long journey through Australia, arriving back in Sydney for the 23rd World Youth Day in July, 2008, which will be attended by Pope Benedict XVI.
Source: World Youth Day Sydney 2008
For more information see: www.wyd2008.org
© Independent Catholic News 2007
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