Young Koreans: "Faith is a serious and life-enhancing commitment"

Seoul (AsiaNews) - Young Korean Catholics "really understand the teachings of the faith" and practicing their religion "helps them to improve their understanding of the world and their problems." However, "there is a need for better pastoral care of families with young children," because "families create the right environment for growth of the Catholic faith”, according to a survey by the Korean Bishops' Conference among young people of the country's 15 dioceses.

The results were presented by Msgr. Peter Lee Ki-heon, president of the Episcopal Commission for Youth Ministry. The Commission prepared and sent 91 thousand modules to all parishes: the questionnaire was drawn up by Dr. Moon Yong-lin, a professor at the Department of Education of Seoul National University, Cho Han-su, a member of the Commission, and Dr. Won Hyun-ju, who also teaches at the capital's University.

The survey is a "first" for the Korean Church. According to Msgr. Lee, "we now have a method and a basis for understanding what we do and how we can improve our work in society." The questions were divided into four categories: personal life, family life, school life and social life. Young Catholics - who live in one of the most secular countries in the world, spurred on in a terrible competition from early childhood - say that faith "helps us understand and overcome our daily problems."

Some, however, stressed that "being a good Catholic is difficult and challenging" others that "faith interferes with school obligations." The vast majority of young people respond however, that "being a Catholic is certainly a commitment, but that's part of the natural duties of believers." All, however, say that Sunday school is boring, "This - Mgr. Lee - drives us to create a more lively and engaging program. Without forgetting the spirit or purpose of the catechism"