On Saturday August 20th we took the chance to sleep in. We then set off for Cuatro Vientos at 1:30 pm. We arrived at the train station at 2:30 where we walked. And walked. And walked. We finally took a bathroom and snack break at 5:30, where we decided to split into two groups. I took charge of nine youth and we ventured ahead of the group. We arrived at the gate qt 7:15, where the police stopped us from entering the secure airfield. We waited until 8:30 when it was explained to us that the airfield was full, and they would not accept anymore pilgrims. We decided to go back to the hostel, the only safe location for us. About 20 minutes in, we were caught up in a lighting storm. We took temporary shelter and once the storm passed we trudged on. About half an hour later, as we were passing a different gate to the airfield, who should we run into but Father Bloom and Saint Mary of the Valley group. They left their hotel at 6:30 pm and had just arrived at the field. Together we went to the nearest gate and were let in. Unfortunately, our section, f8, was full so we slept in another section. That was no problem except for the ant hill. After a long cold damp night, we arose and had mass with the Pope. After mass, the Pope announced the next location for WYD: Rio De Janeiro!! The combined groupleft together and split at the train station. Our little group of 10 took three different trains and four hours but we finally made it back to the hostel safe and sound. The other half of our group remained outside the airfield together all night, but eventually made it back to the hostel as well. We have so much more to tell, but it's time for bed.
Hasta la vista, baby.
Catherine
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