Commissioning held at largest Polish parish outside Poland
The Catholic Register
MISSISSAUGA, ONT.
Always remember why you are there, Auxiliary Bishop-emeritus Matthew Ustrzycki of Hamilton told 600 young Polish-Canadians preparing to return to their ancestral homeland for World Youth Day this summer.
“My dear young friends, this search for happiness is shared by all people of all times and of all ages,” he said. “This happiness comes through what? The cross…. Have it with you all the time.”
Bishop Ustrzycki was joined by Bishop Stanislaw Stefanek of Lomza, Poland, and nine Polish-Canadian priests to celebrate a commissioning Mass for youth going to Krakow, Poland, for WYD 2016.
Youth from eight parishes across southern Ontario gathered at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in Mississauga June 5 to meet fellow Polish-Canadians preparing for the journey.
During the Mass, the young pilgrims received a WYD cross as a reminder of the spiritual journey on which they will embark.
“Hold on to that cross that’s given to you today,” said Bishop Ustrzycki. “Keep in mind that it reminds you what to do with your life…. Through thick and thin, hang on to it, because He will lead you home, and that’s what counts.”
Pope Francis has asked for reflection on the Beatitudes in preparation for WYD, July 25-31. In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, young people are called to be instruments of mercy to those around them.
“One of the greatest first sermons that Jesus preached on the mountain was the Beatitudes,” said the bishop. “Jesus is challenging us and saying to us that look, if you live this way, you will be happy.”
Pilgrim Simone Zamarlik, 23, said, “Some people are going back home. Others are going to our second home.”
St. Maximilian Kolbe is the largest Polish parish outside Poland, with more than 40,000 registered parishioners.
