YOUTH AND JUBILEE
The front cover portrays faces of various youth leaders from the parish of Regina Mundi in Soweto. This parish played a significant role during the 1976 uprisings, protecting those who took refuge in its shelter. Nearly 50 years later, these young men and women represent the hope for a better South Africa, where youth can exercise a meaningful role in society and in the Church, where their talents can be recognized and their voices heard. May their dreams for a bright future and a fruitful discipleship of Jesus be fulfilled.
MISSION IS FUN
THE JUBILEE OF YOUTH
BY FR RAUL TABARANZA MCCJ
AS PART of the celebrations of the Jubilee 2025- Pilgrims of Hope, the Jubilee of Youth will take place in Rome from 28 July – 3 August 2025. It aims to provide young people with an opportunity to reflect on their vocation and find their path in service, particularly within the Church. The late Pope Francis called the youth to envision themselves as “pilgrims of hope,” encouraging them to generously dedicate their lives to serving others in response to God’s love.
In his message, Pope Francis (2025) highlighted the urgent need for Christians, particularly the youth, to live their faith boldly in the face of the many economic, social, and spiritual challenges. He acknowledged the struggles that many young people face today, stating: “In our time, many young people feel lost about their future,” and emphasized as well the deeper issue of identity crises, which leads to a struggle for meaning and values.
The Jubilee of Youth is a crucial reminder for young people to embrace their faith and contribute to addressing global issues such as war, poverty, and environmental degradation. We need to guide young individuals in their discernment, support them in prayer, and especially nurture those who feel called to religious life or the priesthood. Furthermore, this initiative calls on vocation promoters to assist young people in exploring their vocations and how they can best serve the Church. Pope Francis encouraged the youth to listen to the Holy Spirit and accept their calling in a manner that enriches both the Church and the world. It is important to note that promoting vocations is not solely the responsibility of priests and religious sisters. The entire Church community must actively engage in supporting and listening to the aspirations of their young members, fostering a welcoming environment that allows them to participate meaningfully in Church life.
Despite the pervasive uncertainties and crises of meaning facing today’s youth, we must maintain our faith in their potential and ability to contribute positively to our Church. As Pope Francis aptly put it, “while these struggles are compounded by the chaos of digital culture and the harsh realities of war and injustice, God’s presence remains unwavering, calling each individual by name to live their life with purpose.” Through our vocation workshops, we assist young people in their journey to transform their lives into gifts of love.
After three years as Vocation Promoter for the Comboni Missionaries in South Africa, I will soon face another challenging mission in the MCCJ Malawi/Zambian Province. To all young men who are in contact with me, nurture your vocation and God’s call for you. Be open to the Lord and the challenges that go along with it.
THE ROLE OF MARY IN THE VOCATION JOURNEY
Explore how Mother Mary’s “fiat” and unwavering faith serve as a powerful guide for discerning and embracing God’s call in your life, drawing inspiration from her example and the devotion of St. Daniel Comboni.