Young people should be protagonists of the Gospel proclamation, not just the objects of it. That was the hope voiced on Wednesday afternoon in the Synod Hall. Speakers called for a renewed missionary impulse in the Church, society, and politics, so that younger generations might be leaven and light in the world, artisans of peace and a civilization of love.
The Synod paid particular attention to ex-child soldiers, to those from broken families or those affected by addictions, unemployment, corruption, trafficking; but also to the many immigrants, such as those who, after graduating, leave their country of origin in search of a better life and end up losing their roots, moving away from the faith and not making use of their talents. Consumerism in the West – the Synod Fathers noted – risks extinguishing the enthusiasm of young people. They are often disoriented, without dreams and without faith also because of new ideologies such as gender or liberalism. The Church needs to speak courageously about the beauty of the Christian vision of sexuality, without taboos: to be attentive to the many people today who feel unable to live chastely during their engagement.
Young people, the Bishops observed, help adults to “situate themselves” in the present and at the same time expect from the Church a prophetic sign of communion in a torn world. They are the missionary heart of the Church. Hence the proposal to create a Pontifical Council dedicated to them. Finally, it is important to revitalize catechesis and liturgy which, it was stressed, together with popular devotion, has safeguarded the faith of many Christians in contexts of persecution. In order not to succumb to the temptation of activism, it is necessary to underline and point out to young people the importance of prayer; but it is also indispensable for the Church to pray for young people and their vocations.
Source: Vatican News
