APPENDIX: Sample Post-WYD Group Sharing Sessions
Group sharing sessions and activities allow pilgrims to share their faith with others and to grow together in community. They are helpful in assisting pilgrims integrate their personal and communal WYD experiences into their daily lives.
SAMPLE GATHERING # 1 Downward then Upward: Continuing the Mission NOTE TO LEADER: You will need sticky notes, pens, and a Bible for the activities of this gathering.
Opening Activity Sticky Note Transfiguration Mountain
Action: Give each participant multiple sticky notes and ask them to write down three memories from the beginning of his or her personal faith journey. This could be a memory of a memorable sacramental moment, an overnight retreat, or a childhood memory of their family or parish community. Then have each person write on a sticky note a memory from the most recent WYD. Have them arrange these notes in the shape of a mountain( triangle) on the wall, placing the most memorable, mountaintop moments at the peak.
Explain:“ Upward then downward, upward then downward.” People can describe their lives as an up-and-down experience, often feeling like a rollercoaster ride. Although there are tough moments and valleys of darkness, there are also times at the top of the mountain. Just as Jesus accompanied the disciples at both points, so God is with his people all the time.
To map out these mountains in our own lives, we will remember the moments that have shaped us along the way.
Opening Prayer God our Father, we gather today as we continue this lifelong journey that you have called us to through our Baptism.
Help us to hear your word, be docile to the Holy Spirit, and realize that you have been with us throughout our lives. Give us strength, wisdom and humility to respond to the great needs of our brothers and sisters around the world. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
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