Seoul (AsiaNews) – The second international preparatory meeting for WYD 2027 took place in Seoul in recent days, bringing together delegates from 100 different countries. They had the opportunity to receive the information, resources and contacts they will need to prepare the young people who will take part in the major gathering with Leo XIX from 3 to 8 August.
The meeting brought together over 400 participants, including representatives from more than 160 dioceses, religious congregations and ecclesial movements, as well as staff and volunteers from the Local Organising Committee for WYD Seoul 2027, on the eve of the opening of registrations for international pilgrims, which is scheduled for the end of October.
Over the course of four days, participants were introduced to the online registration system and the pilgrim app, the structure of the ‘Days in the Dioceses’ and the main events in Seoul, as well as the practical itinerary pilgrims will follow from their arrival in Korea through to their participation in the events.
The programme extended beyond the conference hall: participants visited potential venues for WYD events and celebrated Holy Mass at Myeongdong Cathedral. The four-day meeting also included a K-Culture Night and an Expo dedicated to the events in the dioceses.
During the Mass concelebrated at Myeongdong Cathedral on 16 September, Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung reflected on the verse chosen once again by Pope Francis as the theme for the 2027 WYD in Seoul: “Take heart! I have overcome the world” (Jn 16:33). Jesus spoke those words – the prelate noted – not after the disciples’ fears had vanished, but whilst uncertainty still surrounded them. Young people today – he added – face an uncertain future, fierce competition, conflicts and divisions, yet they continue to dream of a different world and to seek reasons for hope.
Reflecting on the days the delegates had spent together, Archbishop Chung also urged them to raise awareness of WYD Seoul 2027 in their own countries, dioceses, parishes and youth communities, and to reach out even to those who are not yet familiar with WYD. “You are not simply gathering participants,” he said. “You are inviting a young person to encounter the Lord.”
Fr Franco Galdino, Coordinator of the Youth Section of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, stated that the meeting went beyond an exchange of information and experiences, leaving participants with a renewed enthusiasm for the work that lies ahead. He thanked the members of the local organising committee for their hospitality and said that the Dicastery would continue to work closely with those responsible for youth ministry in countries around the world as preparations progress.
