What a beautiful day it has been! The first day of the pilgrimage began with a procession from the Rosary statue with pilgrims receiving showers of blessings in the form of raindrops. The opening Mass was celebrated by Bishop Paul McAleenan. He taught how we must not judge others but accept each one with their differences, for God sees the heart. Towards the end of the Mass, he asked for the Redcaps to stand in their places and said a special prayer of blessing for their selfless work in this journey of faith.
In the afternoon was meditation and recitation on the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, enacted by the Redcaps. . Cardinal Vincent exclaimed that he had not seen such a beautiful sight in a long time.
The evening was made special with a penitential service held in the magnificent underground Basilica of St Pie X, the Cardinal urging all, 'come to confession this evening, and let God in your life. Let God be the big hug, he will set you free'. The day ended with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament while the Sacrament of Reconciliation was being administered simultaneously with the choir singing,'Come back to me with all your heart' and many other soul-stirring hymns.
For photos of today's events, please click the link below https://www.flickr.com/photos/catholicwestminster/albums
Cardinal Vincent explains the contemplative meaning of the pilgrimage theme,'The Lord has done great things for me.' Please click below to view the complete video.
