World Youth Day

On 24th an 25th March we made a pilgrimage with young people of the Diocese of Nampula/Mozambique to the sanctuary of "St. Mary Mother of the Savior". These were days of prayer, reflection and sharing in the light of the topic: "Don't be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. Fear not, young people, for you have found favour with God."

It was also a good opportunity to hear the voice of the Youth, as for example:

• We young people should be happy and have hope. We can not always be protected, but must look for ways for our realities.
• We ought to be people of faith and hope. These two elements are like the wings of a bird. If one of them is lost, we no longer will be able to "fly", just like the bird cannot fly with one wing only.
• We are talented people.
• We are the young face of the Church today, and tomorrow will be the grown-up face of the Church.
• We hope that the adults lead us to happiness.
• We want the Church to help us to come closer to Jesus.
• We're not kids anymore; We can go with our own two feet.
• We like prayers, retreats, and social programs that have "solid ground".

These voices are cries to which we cannot remain indifferent. We are called to be with the Youth, to go side by side with them, to lead them to happiness and help them to encounter Jesus.

So our candidates and postulants expressed: "We praise and thank God for the opportunity to take part in this pilgrimage. We heard about it, and now we could make the experience. The pilgrimage strengthens us in faith, increases our joy and helps us praying."

(The community “Pilgrim Jesus”, Nampula/Mozambique;
Sr. Celéria Gabriel, Elisa Wiradi, Maria Lázaro, Caudência Celestino und Frázia Miguel)