WYD 2008: Awesome video recap

It's hard to believe we're nearly six weeks removed from our return from World Youth Day in Sydney, but lest we get too busy and forget about that incredible time, pilgrim Andre Papineau of St. Paul Parish put together a great 8-minute video recap (of photo stills) that really gives you a good idea of what the trip was like.

We've embedded a YouTube version here, but for a higher-quality version, click here.

Watch the diocese's welcome video for the papal Mass in D.C.

Prior to Pope Benedict XVI's Mass at Washington D.C. yesterday, a collection of 90-second welcome videos from dioceses around the country were shown on the jumbo screen. The Colorado Springs Diocese was one of the contributors to the collection.

Please allow a minute or two for the video to load and stream.

The video was produced over a three-week period by Bishop Sheridan and members of the Herald staff and was shot and edited by Tammy Briody. The task, according to the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., was to create a 90-second welcome video that gives a glimpse into the diocese. It was very hard to narrow down everything in just 90 seconds, so we focused on social justice (using Marian House as an example), Catholic education, Respect Life, ethnic diversity and vocations.

Thanks to the parishes, schools, Marian House workers, seminarians and everyone else who took time out of their busy schedules to help us.

A special opportunity for a videographer

[EDITOR'S NOTE 3-10-08 : This opening has been filled. We will post the video at the Herald Web site and here when it is finished.]

This is very last-second, but we just received word of this special opportunity for a professional videographer willing to donate his/her time and equipment:

The Archdiocese of Washington D.C. wants to put together a "welcome" video for Pope Benedict XVI when he arrives for Mass at Nationals Stadium. The Archdiocese has put out a call for dioceses around the country to put together a 90-second video highlighting the good things going on in that diocese.

The catch is that videos are due by March 27. Bishop Sheridan has some ideas for a script but our regular video contacts are unavailable. If you have professional experience and equipment and would like to offer your services for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, let us know ASAP by sending an e-mail to editor@coloradocatholicherald.com and/or leaving a message at 719-866-6451.

99 Balloons

This is a must-watch video that was sent to me today. It tells a beautiful story of faith and love amid fragile circumstances.