They cannot enter the Cathedral, that’s why they wait for the young pilgrims at the exit. They are two donkeys, with the WYD bandanna and logo, held with the rope by a group of young monks from Belgium. No need to say, a small crowd of onlookers has gathered around them. "We have these two donkeys here with us, because they are faithful and smiling animals. They teach us humbleness and meekness. Jesus chose just the donkey to festively enter Jerusalem. The hope and the prayer is that every man will turn into that donkey, to bring Christ and His message in the world", says Father Frederic from the Confraternity of Tiberias, who lives and works south of Namur. In the meantime, two young friars sporting a tonsure and sandals cross the square. They do not want to speak, the habit they wear speaks for them: a crumpled jute frock held up by a piece of string, whose knot recalls the religious vows. More talkative is a group from Bavaria, wearing the traditional costumes and launching into a traditional yodel with the accompaniment of accordions and music instruments. 850 young Lebanese file past. The flags with the cedar are countless. Tanios from Beirut says: "We are here to draw strength from prayer and go back to Lebanon to contribute to the country’s rebirth".
