FRIDAY, 15 SEPTEMBER 2007: Castle Hill Way of the Cross. The Diocese of Townsville organised a "Way of the Cross" pilgrimage of the WYD Cross from the Townsville Sports Reserve to the summit of Castle Hill involving over 20 groups and organisations that play a significant role in the local community. In recognition of the strong relationship between the Australian Army and the local Townsville community, soldiers from Lavarack Barracks were invited to help process the Cross and Icon in this special reflection of Christ's love for humanity.

Castle Hill is considered as an icon of Townsville. "It's one icon on another, isn't it? Townsville without Castle Hill isn't Townsville... It's just so potent to have such a powerful symbol, the Cross, being married with an icon of Townsville in such a big way.", said Fr Mick Taylor, the Catholic Military Chaplain at Lavarack Barracks.

SUNDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER 2007: Remembrance Service. Australian Army soldiers mounted a catafalque party at a morning remembrance ceremony at the Balgal Beach RSL Memorial Park cenotaph. In the presence of the Holy Cross and Icon, those gathered offered their prayers for those who have died in the service of our nation. WYD Cross spokesperson for the Diocese of Townsville, Rachel Grahl said that the Cross is a global symbol that should tell a local story when it visited each centre. "You can't do that in Townsville without remembering the contribution that the Defence Force has made to our community," she said.

The Military Diocese of Australia would like to thank Rachel and the Diocese of Townsville for hosting these special ceremonies, involving the Australian Army, during the WYD Cross and Icon's visit through their diocese.

CONTACT

For further information about the commemorative ceremony with the WYD Cross and Icon in Townsville, please contact:

Rachel Grahl
World Youth Day Coordinator
Diocese of Townsville
Email: rgrahl@tsv.catholic.org.au

Fr Mick Taylor
Catholic Military Chaplain (Australian Army) - Lavarack Barracks
Military Diocese of Australia
Email: michael.taylor@defence.gov.au

For general information about the WYD Cross and Icon's journey around Australia, visit the official World Youth Day Cross Website.