| St Patrick’s Parish and the school has been preparing for the coming of the WYD cross and icon for about six months. We all knew February was going to be very busy. The 22nd February was the arrival of the cross in Cooma and the 27th February the date for the hand over to the Wagga Archdiocese on the summit of Mount Kosciuszko. Having been aware that the cross had been to amazing places all around the world I was really keen to be on top Mount Kosciuszko for this event.
Link to an interview with Marta Karpinski, in Polish
We gathered together 28 keen year 9/10 students who really wanted to do the walk and be part of this historic event. I was able to hire a mini bus and with the support of a parent and another teacher we set off yesterday morning at 7.00 a.m. The weather report wasn’t promising but there was no turning back. We arrived in Thredbo at about 9.00 and caught the chairlift to Eaglesnest and immediately started walking as we had to be at Rowson’s Pass by 11.30. There was lots of other students and teachers on the track. They had come from Pambula, Bombala, Canberra, Sydney, Young, Wagga, Cootamundra, Goulburn, Tumbarumba, and of course Cooma. The air was bracing. Too cold for a T-shirt!
When we arrived at Rowson’s Pass, the cross was already there as well as Bishop Mark from Canberra and the Wagga Bishop. Jindabyne Parish had made signs signifying the fourteen stations of the cross. Young and old then carried the cross from station to station, up to the summit of Kosciuszko. There was a wonderful feeling of excitement, adventure, prayer and community.
We were really fortunate with the weather as large white puffs of cloud drifted over the mountains casting shadows on distant ridges. The sun was out and it was breezy but we were on top of the world! Blue mountains stretched out all around us. We were all able to gather on the summit which was fantastic. Prayers were said for unity and world peace and some beautiful readings from the book of writings that travels with the cross and icon, were also read out.
I couldn’t help but think of the history of the mountains, the aboriginal people, the early explorers, Strzelecki, the stockmen, Snowy workers, and visitors that have come to Mount Kosciuszko. It was a great feeling to be present.
Following the ceremony we trooped back down to Thredbo-6.5 km. round trip on foot 13kms for the day. I love walking so it was an ultimate work day for me! It really was a wonderful day; one that will stay long and vivid in the memory of all who attended.
Paul Mackay
Religious Education Coordinator
St Patrick's School, Cooma
Photos by Sue Wallace, Sabina Kovats & Paul Mackay
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