Britta Margaret Bender

Hello, my name is Britta Margaret Bender. I am 16 years old and will be a junior at Delone Catholic High School next year. I was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., to two loving parents and am the eldest of five children consisting of four sisters and one rather unlucky brother. In my spare time, I love to read, write, watch movies and sing.
Writing has always been a passion of mine; when I was 8 or 9 years old, I created my very own neighborhood newspaper and entitled it the Trotwood Tribune (we lived on Trotwood Drive). I delivered handwritten subscription forms to every single house on my street, and several nice people humored me and signed up. Since then, I’ve worked at The Hanover Sun as a student reporter, participated in local poetry readings, and continue to journal quotes, thoughts, and experiences that inspire me.
Speaking of inspirational happenings, I cannot wait to attend World Youth Day in Madrid this August. The group that I am traveling with is gathering at Lourdes, France, for a retreat en route to Madrid. How many youth my age are graced with such an opportunity?! I’m so grateful for this wonderful gift that has been given me, and am privileged to be a pilgrim for the Diocese of Harrisburg. I will attempt to convey all of the wonderful experiences of World Youth Day and everything which it encompasses to the very best of my ability.