The third week of the synod proved just as exciting and insightful as the first two. More bishops and auditors gave interventions, including Archbishop José Gómez, who discussed the importance of challenging young people to strive for and desire sanctity. His comments come on the heels of the canonization of seven new saints. The timing of the canonization of these holy men and women is an indication to all of us, but especially the young people, that this synod is about the need to strive for and desire holiness.
We can strive for sanctity and encourage youth and young adults to yearn for heaven when we listen well to them. Listening is not a passive activity or merely a political ploy. Engaging with a young person on their own level to hear their thoughts and help them in the process of discernment and growing in faith is one of the most important things we can do.
The small groups continued meeting this week, discussing part two of the Instrumentum Laboris and offering insights into what they would like to see included in the final document.
Katie Prejean McGrady unpacks why the 2018 Synod on Young People matters for all of us, namely, because young people matter, walking with them in faith matters, and what's happening in Rome is important for the entire Church, both at a local and national level.
Bishop Frank Caggiano reflects on the one piece of advice he gives to young people today. This advice can be summed up in one word that his Italian father said to him often “Coraggio! Courage!” Throughout our lives we may be tempted to blend in with the crowd, to go along with what everyone is doing. Courage is the gift that helps us to resist that temptation and stand up for what is true and right. The Church needs young people to stand up for what they believe and is dedicated to standing with them.
Why Young People Matter
Katie Prejean McGrady unpacks why the 2018 Synod on Young People matters for all of us, namely, because young people matter, walking with them in faith matters, and what's happening in Rome is important for the entire Church, both at a local and national level.
Advice to Young People
Bishop Frank Caggiano reflects on the one piece of advice he gives to young people today. This advice can be summed up in one word that his Italian father said to him often “Coraggio! Courage!” Throughout our lives we may be tempted to blend in with the crowd, to go along with what everyone is doing. Courage is the gift that helps us to resist that temptation and stand up for what is true and right. The Church needs young people to stand up for what they believe and is dedicated to standing with them.
Important Information and Articles from Week 3:
