MANILA, March 6, 2015—Involving the youth in Church activities should not only be during Lent, but year-round and always, a Catholic priest maintains.
Young people participate in a religious procession during Holy Week. (Photo: CBCPNews)
Fr. Ramon Jade L. Licuanan, head of the Archdiocese of Manila (RCAM)’s Archdiocesan Commission on Youth (ACY), said young people have always had a vital role to play in the Church, underscoring that adults must encourage them to see their place in it.
In a recent interview over Church-run Radyo Veritas, the priest stressed parents should set the example so that their children, even at an early age, are already aware of and exposed to their responsibilities in the faith community where they belong by supporting and taking part in various parish programs and projects.
Parent’s support
He explained this could only be possible if they have all the parental encouragement they need, and know that through it they can earn a deeper understanding of Jesus, allowing Him to live His life in them.
Licuanan pointed out the problem lies in adults expecting too much of the youth.
He asked: “The question is do we invest enough for them? Do we really invest? Do we put our resources? Are the adults giving enough time for them, for the young people? Are the adults giving enough resources for them? Giving monetary support for their program?”
‘Daang Krus’
Meanwhile, the priest invited the faithful to the “Daang Krus” (Way of the Cross) which the metropolitan see plans to hold on March 28 in pious remembrance of Christ’s Paschal Mystery.
He shared each RCAM parish and vicariate will mount similar activities to make the commemoration of the Lord’s redeeming work more appealing to the young faithful.
Youth-oriented
“The Way of the Cross is especially designed and customized with the youth in mind. In one station, we will have time for writing letters. In another, we will have reflections from contributing priests and youth,” Licuanan added. (Raymond A. Sebastián/CBCP News)
