The Theme: "Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment" was to emphasize the place of faith in the lives of the young people, helping them to see the world with new eyes—not asking them to come out to the church to serve, work in groups. In their own hearts, they are to judge what are true values in life and what a fulfilling life under God would be for them and to go into the world to accomplish this. This is growing in faith. The role of the church is to accompany the young to follow these values in life.
The bishop stressed the synod was not a place to provide concrete answers to difficulties but to examine the situation young people are facing and to see the direction the church should be taking. He has his homework to do, even though the synod was on the subject of youth, many young people do not even know that we had the synod. Pastors need to share the literature and to listen to young people. Some of the voices of the young people were printed in an accompanying article.
▲ Worn out volunteers, are we considered expendables? Young People working in parishes as volunteers are often overburdened and exhausted. The church is relying too much on its volunteers. If a professional staff is needed they should be hired and allow young people to do real service— volunteers should be gaining strength and deepening their faith while serving.
▲ How old can a young person be and still be considered young? There are so many different categories of youth today. Some marry early and others are single into their 40s. Many have the enthusiasm and opportunity and desire to serve but because of age feel uncomfortable in deciding. Where is the borderline between youth and adult life.
▲ Pastoral care of the youth without youth. When young people want training or retreats, their support and cooperation in volunteer work are often primary. From childhood I have heard we are the future church. When does this take place?
▲ Pseudo-Religions aiming for Catholic Youth. Catholic youth lack a basic catechesis. Looking around, there are many young people who have spent decades within the church community and have not studied the Bible properly. We need to increase the number of small-scale Bible meetings that some of the cult groups use to attract young people.
▲ Life of faith = Taking time? If you plan an event, youth participation is low and you have to beg and entreat. Few companies will give you the time to make a 3 day retreat. Young people with jobs have difficulties finding time to participate in the parish community. The employed have money but no time; students have the time but no money. Realizing the difficulties the young people have should be understood.
The Bishop told the young people they are the subjects of the pastoral work of the church. It's not the Church teaching and the young learning but the church accompanying the young people to help them find the right path in their journey of life.
