Friday, July 11, 2008 Our Tour of the City

Friday, July 11, 2008 St. Patrick Catholic Church

On Friday, we started our day with Mass at 7:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church. It was also, Fr. Alberto's Birthday so he was able to celebrate the morning Mass. St. Patrick is the oldest parish in Sydney. It is staffed by the Marist Fathers (Society of Mary). We were fortunate that the parish was three blocks from our hotel. Prior to the World Youth Day events, we attended daily Mass and Sunday Mass at St. Patrick. The parish reminded us very much of home, our parish in Brenham - St. Mary's.

Thursday July 10, 2008 Our First Evening Meal in Sydney

Thursday, July 10 After Checking in at the Hotel

Thursday, July 10 Arrival at the Hotel

Since we arrived in Sydney early in the morning, unfortunately our rooms at the hotel were not ready. So we left our luggage at the hotel and went to visit St. Pactrick Catholic Church which is about three blocks from our Hotel. We were scheduled to attend Mass later in the afternoon at 5:30 PM. However, the free time we had gave us the opportunity to get to know the area where we are staying.

The Rendezvous Stafford Hotel where we are staying is located in Rocks district of Sydney. This is considered to be the oldest section of Sydney. Apparently this is the area where the City of Sydney was first established. The Rocks is located near the harbor and most of the beautiful sites of Sydney are within walking distance from the Hotel. The famous Opera House is approximately 15 minutes walking distance and the Harbor Bridge as well.

The hotel staff so far has been very gracious in welcoming us to Sydney and have been very accomadating. While waiting for our rooms to be ready, Katrina was the receptionist on duty when we arrived. She was very helpful in giving us maps and informing us some of the sites in the area that we can visit while waiting for our rooms. Although many of were tired from our long trip, we were just excited to go out and venture into the city.

As you may know, it is winter here in Sydney. When we arrived the weather was a bit brisk and chilly but we were able to manage.

Thursday, July 10 From the Airport to the Hotel (Sydney in the Morn