The Korean Church has spent a great deal of effort to determine the problems associated with the lives of the young and the way they look upon religion. Korean young people said, no doubt with some sarcasm, they are the 'give up generation' life is not as good for them as it was for their parents.
One of the bishops present from Korea was quoted as saying that he has met young people who are fearful of the sacrifices and the lifestyle that reunification between North and South Korea will demand but he believes that the majority are willing to accept the difficulties for they see the benefits.
We have for many years worried about a war between the North and South. This has changed, said the bishop. He responded to the news of a possible visit of Pope Francis to Korea. He does feel that this would be a good way for the North to join the international community but requires some change in the way the North has behaved in dealing with their citizens and religious freedom is not the least of these problems.
A young woman writes in the diocesan bulletin of her desires from the Synod. The young people have responded in great numbers both in group meetings and on the social media in their hopes for the Synod. They want to see authenticity, more concern for relationships, and concern for justice. She quotes from the document especially from # 66 to 71 and #158.
Young people want zero tolerance for sexual and financial scandals in the church and more so, desire for the light of the Gospel to shine in the world. They want to see more concern for relationships than with structures. A more welcoming, loving church and to experience the joy of the Gospel within the community. "Today’s young people are longing for an authentic Church. We want to say, especially to the hierarchy of the Church, that they should be a transparent, welcoming, honest, inviting, communicative, accessible, joyful and interactive community."
She mentions the place of women within society as a concern for the church. The church needs to be interested in the problems within society and dialog is required. Also, young people are usually very sensitive to the fight against corruption and the issue of discrimination— "indicating the promotion of the dignity of women as the first area of engagement."
She concludes her words by asking: before we propose the virtuous life to the young people the community of faith has to give us an example of what this means by living the virtuous life. This is what young people want to see and follow.
