Young people from the south, north, east and west, from various localities, gathered to celebrate the National Youth Day (DNJ), which took place on October 26 and 27 in Carnaubeira da Penha, in Pernambuco, Brazil.
The event gathered more than 350 young people from 12 parishes of the Diocese of Floresta.
The theme of the DNJ was “In the fragility of youth, the strength of social transformation”, addressed through various sub-themes such as youth and fragility, living faith in the face of life’s challenges, opening up to God’s novelties, in human relationships.
These themes were reflected upon in the communities and parishes in preparation for this long-awaited youth meeting. As Dom Gabriel mentioned, “it awakened desires, joys, dreams, energy and vibration that every young person carries inside”.
The missionary dimension of the DNJ was inspired by the words of Pope Francis in Fratelli Tutti, which advocate fraternity and social friendship in the face of the evils that threaten peace and cohesion in the world, preventing the construction of a more supportive and inclusive society: “we are all brothers and sisters”. The mission in the communities was an enriching experience for the young people, evident in their testimonies.
At the end of the mission, we celebrated a Eucharist presided by Bishop Dom Gabriel, accompanied by five other concelebrating priests.
He concluded with the testimony of a young woman:
“Our parish is not rich in resources, but it is abundant in welcoming, sharing and faith. Let us always continue to be guided by faith, the strength of work and the light of hope.”
Sr. María López Otero, CCV
