Jerry Schetter, a seminarian of the Diocese of Toledo, shares his experience of seeing Pope Benedict...

Wow!!!

I thought I would write you a few notes on my experience at meeting the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI duringhis visit to America and, in particular, New York.

I awoke early Saturday morning to the birds chirping loudly outside my window. As I was walking down the hill to morning Mass I was contemplating what would be in store for me and my brother seminarians. It was of a major concern too me as I'm the president of their student government and had been working closely with the administration on coordinating this excursion to be with the Holy Father.

Having coordinated the last two World Youth Days I had a pretty good idea what was involved with this opportunity to work on this one. This time I had the task of helping 80 seminarians have maybe a once in a lifetime experience of being up close to Pope Benedict. In any event you have a chance to work on... it's a totally different experience in it's own, this was no exception. Security! That was the number one hurdle to get over on this one. It started back in February with having to fill out very strict paperwork, which involved getting background information on everybody. The security didn't end there as it followed us throughout the day. With special routes to travel, police escorted shuttle transportation to the grounds and literally thousands were involved in it. When we finally arrived at the gate it was very similar to post 9/11 as we went through different checkpoints.

While we were entering the grounds you immediately got the feeling of a festive atmosphere. We made our way up front as we were placed in the red section, which was set aside for seminarians. We found ourselves literary eight feet in front the stage. The stage was set up beautifully with a giant replica of a cutout risen Christ. Christ is truly risen! I took a walk around the grounds and the experience of watching how others were spending their time in waiting. Some were sitting on the grass playing cards, you'd see a couple here and there praying, some would be playing catch, while others were sitting in groups singing. You would see cameras everywhere as young and old alike were making lasting moments. One of the things I also remember about an event like this is the expression on the youth gathered. I mean that's what it's all about anyways. 

The day was full of music, dancing and all sorts of entertainment ranging from rap, to Christian rock. We had a chance to witness Kelly Clarkson sing as well as Toby Mac, and the Three Graces. We even found time to do a little singing together of the Regina Coeli and Salve Regina as the seminarians broke out in chant.

As the sun was setting behind the stage... time was drawing close for the Holy Father's arrival. When he finally entered the grounds the capacity crowd drew into a rage of excitement. The cheers were going out "Benedicto" "Papa Benedicto."

This was a special day also as we were helping the Holy Father celebrate his third anniversary of the election from Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger to Pope Benedict XVI.

The Holy Father's opening remarks centered on "Proclaiming the Lord Christ" and he greeted all 26,000 gathered with love and heartfelt affection. You could see a genuine love in his eyes. Because of this most obvious sign of affection - each of the 26,000 chanted back - "We love you Papa Benedicto." He said to us as he started his address "Young friends, I am very happy to have the opportunity to speak with you." With that there was a roar from the crowd. He also added. "I wish to acknowledge your singing to me Happy Birthday! Thank you for this moving gesture; I give you all an "A plus" for your German pronunciation!" We had just finished singing to him in German "Happy Birthday." He shared with us that we are disciples of Jesus Christ. Walking in the Lord's footsteps, our own lives become a journey of hope.  "Saved By Hope" "Christ is our Hope."

The Pope's message during his pastoral visit here has centered on the need for Americans, especially young American Catholics, to reconnect faith and life. Benedict sees secularism, materialism and individualism as leading to an erosion of the connection between belief and morality, truth and goodness. He told us to bear witness to the Good News of Christ wherever we are and to follow the path that He has laid in front of us. God is our origin and our destination. Christ is our Hope! He encouraged us to develop a special relationship with Our Lord and that relationship is nurtured by prayer. The air was quiet... you could hear a pin drop as all eyes and ears were glued to his very words as he finished his talk to the youth, the youth of all ages. He asked what we were seeking and to take time and be quiet in prayer and listen to God's message. The Pope finished his time with us with his Papal Blessing and wishing the best for us all. Kelly Clarkson then sang the "Ave Maria" to him. As he listened, you could see that very special smile he had bring hope to all.

In the midst of 26,000 I did have the opportunity to be with one of my brother seminarians, Alan Rooney. Unfortunately with the size of the crowd I didn't see anyone else from the Diocese. I know there were many present from throughout the Diocese and I'm sure they have many special memories to share that will be lasting in their hearts and minds.

I was asked how this compares to World Youth Days? Similar of course, as anytime you have the opportunity to be in his Holiness' presence is an electrifying experience.