The Augustinian Friars in Britain

Our Hearts are Restless until they Rest in You, Lord

AYE Countdown to August 9th 2010

The Preparatory Committee held their regular monthly meetings on April 29 and May 24.  The emphasis now is in filling out the details for the events of the week.

A Concern : One slight concern is that most of the optimistic estimates of numbers that were submitted some months ago is not being realised in the numbers finally being registered.  

The total capacity is 350, including 40 camping places.  The total now is more like 253, of whom 9 are opting to camp.  This is not a disaster, as 253 is a viable number and there is still the possibility of some stragglers. However, there must be a final cut-off date of 25 June, beyond which it will not be possible to consider further applicants.  Final numbers must be given to the accommodation centres and payments made. Payment is also happening very slowly.  At the recent meeting, statistics presented showed that only 6 of the 24 groups have paid.  No doubt all are in the process of collecting and arranging transfer.

The Province Central fund has provided a substantial amount to meet payments to date—deposits to centres, running expenses etc.—and will meet the considerable shortfall between income and total expenditure.

 

Otherwise, all is going steadily.  

The programme for the week is gradually taking a firm shape.  The overall theme of the week is I shall call you friends, an aspect of the theme emphasised each day.

 

Monday:  We come to rest in you.

Opening ceremony

Tuesday: The call to friendship

Small language groups

Legislative theatre

Festival of Nations

 

Wednesday: Who is my friend?

Workshops on social justice theme

Social Justice stalls

Hog roast meal

UK presentation followed by Ceilidh

 

Thursday: Old friends

Visit to Clare Priory

Mass, planting of tree

Visit to Cambridge

Evening Prayer at St John’s College

Meal for Religious with Prior General

 

Friday: Healing friendships

A  day centred on Reconciliation

Reconciliation service, individual confessions

Via Lucis, Taize evening

 

Saturday: God is your friend

After AYE?

Closing Mass celebrated by Prior General

 

Sunday:  Closing ceremony, departure