2008

Thursday 3rd April 2008

H is for Hunter, Hospitality and Homestay Hosts

The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is currently seeking homes for about 5000 pilgrims who are visiting the Diocese from 10-14 July.

Young people aged between 16 and 35 and representing every continent and about 30 countries are visiting Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Hunter and Manning for five days before heading to Sydney for World Youth Day 08.

According to Diocesan World Youth Day Co-ordinator, Mr Luke Edwards, “We’re looking for generous families, couples or individuals from Merriwa to Merewether, from Toronto to Taree, from Port Stephens to Pokolbin. Will you please open your home and heart to our young visitors? It promises to be a great experience for you and for them!”

21-year-old Kariny is from Brazil and is very excited about visiting the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle as part of a World Youth Day tradition. In the weeks leading up to World Youth Day, overseas pilgrims like Kariny are offered the opportunity to experience the hospitality, culture and spirituality of the local church by participating in the ‘Days in the Diocese’ program.

Kariny attended the last World Youth Day Week in Cologne, Germany in 2005. She is coming to Days in the Diocese in Maitland-Newcastle with fond memories and positive expectations.

“There were lots of experiences in Germany that will never leave my mind: the cultural exchange, the time with the German family, the spiritual experience, all the parties and events with all the families, the places we visited.”

“And that is what I am expecting of Days in the Diocese in Maitland-Newcastle! I want to share with all of you guys, I want to learn, I want to teach, I want to enjoy the time in your diocese the best way I can! See you in July.”

According to Mr Edwards, “During Days in the Diocese, we want pilgrims to know firsthand who we are, what matters to us, and what it’s like to live in an Australian home. These young people are looking for something more than just a tourist experience. They are on a pilgrimage. Getting to know the locals is an essential part of that experience.”

Belgian Deacon Herve Dierckx is arranging for a group of about 120 pilgrims from four dioceses in Belgium to visit Maitland-Newcastle in July. He hopes that his pilgrims will be accommodated in family homes. “The country is beautiful, and people are friendly and helpful – everywhere! But in homes, people tell their stories, cook for you and listen to your story…”

According to Bishop Michael Malone, “As leader of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, I have come to appreciate the generosity, support and commitment of our local community. That is why I feel able to appeal to you for your practical support in making Days in the Diocese an unforgettable experience for all of us.”

To register as a homestay host or to assist the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle in any aspect of Days in the Diocese call (02) 4979 1153 or visit www.wydmn.org.au

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