The Cross and Icon were then taken to Saint Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, where we were welcomed by Archbishop Philip Wilson, who recalled with joy visiting our Motherhouse several years ago.  A Youth Festival was hosted on the cathedral’s side lawn.  In addition to praise and worship music led by local youth, the Journey of the Cross and Icon Team gave testimonies of their own journey with the Cross and Icon and performed a simple drama.  In the drama, each member of the team portrayed a Biblical person who personally encountered Christ and His Cross.  Each gave a monologue highlighting interior struggles, doubts, and fears.  Then each would touch or embrace the Cross and turn back to the audience and relate the message of love and strength he or she heard at the Cross.  The performance was powerful in its simplicity and offered an excellent preparation for approaching one’s own time at the Cross with ears and hearts open to listen.

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