Held at the Hall of Peace within the Martyrs' Shrine in Jeonju starting August 15, the JYD served as a precursor to the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day (WYD). The young participants came from various parishes, differing in age and life background; international youths also joined the gathering.
Although there were moments when language barriers arose, no one viewed these differences as a source of discomfort. Participants took the initiative to share information, strike up conversations with strangers, and choose hospitality over awkwardness. The theme of "becoming one" was manifested more clearly through the young people's actions than through any homily or lecture.
Looking at the reality outside the event, the atmosphere is quite different. Politicians speak of unity while simultaneously spewing mockery and abusive language, trading words of blame and hatred. Daily life is much the same; the casual consumption of hate speech—both online and offline—has become a common sight. It seems easier to push away differences than to understand them.
That is why this Youth Day felt so meaningful. "Becoming One" did not begin with grand slogans. It starts with the courage to reach out first, the willingness to acknowledge each other's differences, and small acts of extending a helping hand to those in need. Young people demonstrated that such small acts of practice can unite diverse individuals into a single community.
As we look ahead to WYD Seoul, it is not merely the event itself that requires preparation. More importantly, Christians must first embody "oneness" within the world. When the hospitality and respect shown by the young participants and volunteers at the gathering extend beyond the church and into our daily lives, the phrase "we are all one" will finally transcend being a mere slogan and become a lived reality.
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