THE Catholic Diocese of the ADF will host the World Youth Day cross and a religious icon at Kokoda Barracks, Canungra on August 20.
The 3.8m-high cross has been travelling around the world since 1984. An ancient painting of Mary and the baby Jesus (known as the “icon”) now accompanies the cross in its travels.
The visit to Kokoda Barracks will be the first time that the ADF will host these religious symbols.
Bishop Max Davis, the Catholic Bishop of the ADF, said: “The holy cross and icon of Mary are most tangible symbols of the love of Christ, bringing peace, hope and unity to today’s troubled world, so I am immensely pleased that there will be opportunities for Australian servicemen and women, their families and friends to engage with this spirit of Christ’s love.”
Fr Glynn Murphy, Senior Chaplain 1 Div, has organised a ceremony at the Kokoda Barracks Parade Ground from 10am-3pm to mark the occasion.
The cross and icon will arrive in a military convoy before being assembled and carried by young ADF members to the Bishop. Although the spiritual celebrations will be based on the Catholic faith, people of all faiths and all Christian denominations are welcome to attend and participate.
