World Youth Day in full swing as Pope Francis flies in

World Youth Day is now in full swing for the Diocese of East Anglia's pilgrim group in Krak£w, with some time for quiet reflection and Pope Francis being welcomed later today. Dan Anderson reports.

World Youth Day ' Day Eight, July 27

Waking up to an early start and being ready to roll at 8am, we headed off to the Tauron Arena for Mass and catechesis.

After a traditional World Youth Day queue, we entered the arena, where after some praise and worship we enjoyed a Mass presided by Cardian Sean Patrick O'Malley. The treat within the Mass, however, was Bishop Alan Hopes both concelebrating and participating the Eucharistic Prayer.

Following this, we had lunch, then split off into the different talks available at the arena. We reconvened at a La Salette seminary, to have a beautiful reconciliation service in the chapel. Presided by Bishop Alan, there were six priests available for confession, as well as exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and worship music throughout.

It gave us a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy World Youth Day to reflect on our lives and bring ourselves closer to God.

In the evening, some of us went to a concert back at the arena, whereas the rest elected to rest at the hotel and prepare for tomorrow; more Catechesis but most importantly the welcoming ceremony for Pope Francis.

Pictured above, Pope Francis arrives in Poland yesterday on his way to World Youth Day. Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk

See a full World Youth Day picture gallery from Catholic Church of England and Wales photographer Marcin Mazur.

Follow the East Anglia group's progress on social media at https://twitter.com/igniteyea and https://www.facebook.com/igniteyea/

Sign up for a regular enews bulletin at www.rcdea.org.uk (see form on left-hand side of this page)

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