| On the morning of 2nd July 2007, the World Youth Day Cross and Icon of Our Lady made it’s way to the Parish of Sacred Heart Church in Cabramatta. Hundreds of parishioners and youth of every nationality attended the celebrations, amongst them the youth of Lajkonik, the Polish Parish Priest and Patron of Lajkonik Ks Krzysztof Chwalek and Lajkonik parents. We all came together as one, to celebrate the journey of the Cross and Icon.
The Day started at 7am in freezing temperatures, which quickly warmed with the arrival of the blessed Cross and Icon. No doubt that the religious significance played a greater role in the warming up of attendees, than did the Sun.
Lajkonik helped to unload, carry and position the Cross throughout the morning, returning the Cross at the completion of the celebrations. Members marvelled at the unique possibility of being able to hold a Cross that had travelled throughout the world.
Lajkonik also took sole care of the Icon of Our Lady, unloading, carrying, escorting and guarding the Icon throughout the entire morning, as well as facilitating worship and returning the Icon to its vehicle. Lajkonik observed upmost respect and absolute reverence about the intense significance this Icon holds.
Events of the morning included a live interview with the Channel 9 TODAY show and organisers, which featured Lajkonik holding the Icon of our Lady; a Liturgy program involving Lajkonik members reading in Polish and English; and live entertainment including a performance of the Kujawiak-Oberek by Lajkonik.
The youth of Lajkonik felt absolute privilege and honour to play such a special role in the overwhelming events. It was a marvel and indeed a special and unique opportunity for the Lajkonik youth to share in the journey of the World Youth Day Cross and Icon that began in 1984 by our former Polish Pope John Paul II (may He rest in peace).
Lisa-Marie Gadd
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