Papal Visit 2010

Hyde Park Vigil

Saturday 18th September
The pilgrimage to Hyde Park started at St David’s with Mass. The coach could only take us as far as Wembly Stadium which meant that we had to take the tube across London to our final destination.

Upon arrival at the park, a suitable spot was found and David had to leave us to register as banner carrier for All Saints Parish. The procession of banners was made up of many, many Parishes from across all areas of the UK along with other groups, for example HCPT.

The procession set off at 4pm and arrived at the stage at 5.30pm where each banner carrier was met by their Diocesan Bishop. David received an extremely warm welcome from Monsignour Bob Reardon. After exiting the stage, David was very fortunate to be ushered into one of the front seats, sitting with the Diocesan youth representatives from across the United Kingdom.

The tension built during the evening and the excitement rose when pictures of the Pope were seen on the big screen as he made his way through the Mall to Hyde Park.

Following his arrival at the Park, we listened the scripture readings and then David, along with others, was asked to go to the front of the stage where he was presented with a candle which had been lit from the Pascal candle.

During Benediction, there was a tremendous silence throughout the whole park,
broken occasionally by the sound of a young baby crying.

The presence of Jesus Christ was so evident.

To be so close to the Pope and experience him at prayer was a moving experience.

The reverence showed by all during Benediction was commendable,


but the greatest praise must be given to the young people
who were a pleasure and a privilege to be amongst.

Following the Pope’s departure, the Vigil ended and the crowds began to disperse. Hyde Park tube station closed its doors due to the volume of people, so the All Saint’s group made their way up Oxford Street to the next station. After safely arriving back at Wembly Stadium to meet the coach, the group became silent and thoughtful on the long journey home.

Special mention must be made to Sister Maria Goretti
for her wonderful leadership throughout the day
and also to Julie Oates who made the amazing banner.

An amazing and very special day
and great to share this experience with fellow parishioners and friends.

Photographs and write up by David Watts

If you have comments about this event, photos or memories to add,
please forward using the link below or email via allsaints.web@hotmail.co.uk