The episcopal vicar of Jakarta archdiocese has called on about 200 young Catholics attending a conference to take part in various Church activities in order to show the face of Jesus.
“Young Catholics should involve themselves in activities organized by different communities in their neighborhoods and parishes so that an effective ministry or ‘New Evangelization’ can take place,” Jesuit Father Alexius Andang Listya Binawan said yesterday.
He was speaking at the 2011 True Love Celebration conference at the Mega Glodok Kemayoran conference center in Jakarta.
The event, organized by the Domus Cordis Catholic group, included praise and worship, mass and talks on different topics delivered by representatives of ten archdiocese communities.
Father Binawan said the activities are varied and fun and include many pastimes such as camping and sports.
“These kinds of activities can foster evangelization among young people. This is the right way to show the face of Jesus,” he continued.
“The Church wants to involve young Catholics in what we call ‘New Evangelization’ because the Church wants young people to recognize the love of Jesus,” he maintained.
One participant, Karina, said by trying to tailor activities around young peoples’ interests was a step in the right direction because they won’t be boring.
“In his message for the 45th World Communications Day [June11], Pope Benedict XVI called for young people to use digital media such as social networking sites to proclaim the Gospel, because it is an easy and useful tool evangelization and to share love and joy with others,” the 25-year-old woman said.
In his homily during the Mass, Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo said today’s youths will be the ones giving future direction for the Church.
“The future of the Church is in young people’s hands. Every activity which can develop the Church and strengthen faith should be pursued,” he concluded.
http://www.ucanews.com/2011/11/07/new-evangelization-needs-youths/
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