Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - This coming Sunday, February 17, will be the “National Youth Day 2008,” with the title, “The Youth: Witness and Prophet
today in Venezuela by the Power of the Holy Spirit.” The initiative was
organised by the Bishops’ Commission for Youth and University Student Ministry. The theme for the Day will be: “Citizen’s Participation,” together with the quote, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses” (Acts 1:8), the quote chosen by the Holy Father Benedict XVI for the celebration of the 23rd World Youth Day this year in Sydney, Australia.
The celebration of the National Youth Day has been a tradition since July of 2003, when 35 Bishops in the Plenary Council of Venezuela (CPV), approved several documents in question, among them: “Jesus Christ: Good News for the Youth.” The document indicates, as pastoral norm, that the Sunday following February 12th, shall be designated for the celebration of the Youth Day in Venezuela, asking that on this day there be a national collection in support of Youth Pastoral Ministry.
This Day is established as an opportunity to thank God for the gift of youth and for the young people that dedicate their lives to evangelisation and the faith formation of others. It is also a time for young people to meet others like themselves, who share their ideals, above all the faith and hope. It is an opportunity to celebrate their role as members of the Church and the mission to evangelise among the most needy. It is also the day on which parishes can celebrate the presence of youth in their churches, institutions and neighbourhoods, as well as the ministry of accompanying them in their faith formation and the joy of witnessing their strength and creativity.
From the collections made during the Masses on this day, 70% will go towards projects and activities for Youth Ministry in the diocese and the other 30% will go towards projects and activities sponsored by the Venezuelan Bishops’ Conference Department for Youth and University Student Ministry. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 13/2/2008 righe 26, parole 346)
