World Youth Day was a mix of different experiences. For me it can be best described as being a cross between a retreat, an exhibition and a social gathering. It was a retreat in the sense that it was an occasion to be renewed in God's Spirit, to hear his call more clearly and to journey with Him more closely. It was an exhibition as there were numerous handouts, information booths and presentations being made by different religious orders and organizations from around the world. It however, was also a social gathering, as young people from over 100 countries came together to honour God, share their varied cultures and forge new friendships.
The whole experience left me with a feeling of squeaky cleanness. When I left Toronto I felt as though I was washed all over, cleansed, purified. I was even at a loss for words - not being able to describe my experience for a really long time. It was a weird feeling - not the normal "cloud nine" sensation or the high that I would sometimes experience after a retreat. It felt different ... more permanent.
You basically got what you came for at World Youth Day. If you came intent on seeking the Lord, then that's what you got. There was Eucharistic adoration, confession, daily Mass and catechism. The major events occurred inside Exhibition Place but there were also activities taking place all across Toronto. You could therefore become distracted and miss out on the essence of the occasion if you were not focussed.
One of my most memorable moments was during the Vigil on that Saturday night - seeing over 800 thousand candles lit, singing and praying together with the Pope and people from all over the world. Wow, that was awesome!
The real highpoint for me, however, was when I was leaving during the Papal Mass on Sunday. It was then and there that it all came together. I saw what a privilege it was to be there with the Pope and all these youth Catholics who were so in love with Jesus. I had experienced a lot without realizing it. I was definitely transformed, but in a strange and indescribable way.
As I left Downsview Park, I tried to cry but I could not. My eyes were so dry that the tears could not form. I knew that I was not the same person that I had been, just a few days before. It was time to move to a new level - time to start really being the light of the world and the salt of the Earth.
Sheldon Blugh