World Youth Day USA Guides International Pilgrimage Leaders Guide | Page 60

engage in these interactions, as it is done

In general, preparing for the World Youth Day

informally throughout the week, en route to

trip can be a challenge – and as you can see,

events, on the pilgrimage walk, or while waiting

there are many things that pilgrims and leaders

for programs to begin. Remember that trading

should be aware of before traveling abroad.

is optional, so pilgrims should not worry if they

Nonetheless, if pilgrims are properly prepared

do not have anything to trade.

in these areas, they should have a good and safe
trip – and be able to focus on the incredible

If they would like to trade things that represent

spiritual and missionary experiences that the

the Roman Catholic experience in the United

World Youth Day pilgrimage has to offer them.

States, the WYDUSA office (www.wydusa.org)
provides some items for purchase in advance of

BASIC STRATEGIES FOR LEADERS

World Youth Day. These include WYDUSA
clothing, backpacks, blankets, water bottles,

With all the factors involved, leading a

prayer cards, and posters. In addition, the

World Youth Day pilgrimage group is a great

USCCB Store has other items specific to the

experience but it can be a bit intimidating when

Catholic experience in the United States.

you realize the awesome responsibility on your

International pilgrims may enjoy receiving these

shoulders. The role of a good pilgrimage leader

unique Catholic items from the USA.

is to assist his or her pilgrims in their total
pilgrimage experience and their continued

Three Opportunities to Never Pass Up

formation as a disciple of Christ.

Above all, there are three practical things that
leaders and their pilgrim groups should never

Besides putting the pilgrimage together, the

pass up on a World Youth Day pilgrimage:

group leader is constantly concerned about the
present and the ever-changing details of the

1. Opportunities to refill the water bottle,

future. You are a spiritual companion, tour

2. Opportunities to eat a meal, and

guide, meeting planner, and risk manager all

3. Opportunities to use the toilet (even when

rolled up into one. This leader’s manual

pilgrims don’t think they need to go).

includes both the spiritual and practical
elements that go into pilgrimage leadership.

One cannot be sure when the next opportunity

Balancing them is challenge, but one that Lord

will come for any of these, so groups should

has trusted you to handle and overcome. What

take advantage of them when they arise.

follows are some basic logistical tips for World
58