Dioceses have been holding preliminary events leading up to the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day (WYD) diocesan gatherings. The Archdioceses of Gwangju and the Dioceses of Jeonju and Uijeongbu presented various events and programs tailored to their unique characteristics, engaging both young people and parishioners. Young people with no prior WYD experience were able to get a taste of the WYD spirit as pilgrims, while also previewing the 2027 diocesan gatherings—each reflecting the specific themes of peace, ecology, community, and pilgrimage unique to their respective dioceses. Here is an overview of the journeys undertaken by each diocese from August 15 to 17.
From August 15, the Archdiocese of Gwangju held the "2026 Gwangju Archdiocese Youth Gathering: Pre-WYD" (themed "Path of Encounter for Young Pilgrims") at Gwangju Catholic University for two days and one night. This event was designed to allow young people who had never experienced WYD to become pilgrims and get a preview of the event, while also meeting and communicating with one another within their faith.
Attended by approximately 500 young people, the gathering featured a diverse range of programs, including catechesis, Eucharistic Adoration, and Taizé prayer. Additionally, the "One Candle" program offered Taizé prayer.
Gwangju Catholic Peace Broadcasting (CPBC) also met the young participants through a special live broadcast of its program, "Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) Gift Shop." CCM artists such as D.E.S. Worship and Jubirus took the stage to sing hymns with the crowd, adding to the festive atmosphere of praise. At night, a "Pilgrims' Night" event provided an opportunity for participants to share their personal experiences of faith and get to know one another better.
During the event, a Mass for the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was celebrated, presided over by Archbishop Simon Ok Hyun-jin of the Gwangju Archdiocese. Archbishop Ok remarked, "Just as this pilgrimage route may face challenges—such as weather, language barriers, food, or crowds—so too might the journey to next year's World Youth Day (WYD) not always be smooth." He added, "Walking this path together now will help the young people prepare for the journey ahead next year." He continued, "Walking alone might be difficult, but by walking together, we can overcome any obstacle."
