Light is one of the most important Christian symbols and will be one of the symbols of the vigil and the last Eucharist of the XX WYD as well, due to be held tonight and tomorrow in Marienfeld. The 27 columns of light on the west side of the area symbolise the 27 German dioceses; the central corridor leading up to the hill of the altar and the course of the procession will be highlighted by lampposts. One hundred and twenty candles, 1 metre in diameter, with 7 wicks each, float in round pools, scattered all over the esplanade of Marienfeld; before the celebration, the young will light 7 thousand candles. All pilgrims will hold a lit candle. Other symbols are the hill and the cloud. In many cultures and religions, hills and clouds are places in which man meets God; Moses received the 10 Commandments on Mount Sinai. Thus, the altar for the final mass of the WYD is located on a hillock. The roof above is in the shape of a cloud: the Bible speaks of God appearing within a cloud and speaking. (to be continued)
