The second international preparatory meeting for the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day (WYD) opened on September 14.
Running until September 17, the meeting is jointly organized by the Vatican's Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life and the 2027 Seoul WYD organizing committee. Representatives from churches around the world are sharing updates on the preparations and key programs for the Seoul WYD while experiencing Korean church culture.
Attendees at the opening ceremony included Cardinal Kevin Farrell, head of the Vatican's Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life; Archbishop Jeong Soon-taek, head of the Seoul Archdiocese and chair of the 2027 Seoul WYD organizing committee; and Archbishop Giovanni Battista D'Agnolo, the Apostolic Nuncio to South Korea.
Representatives from bishops' conferences and related organizations from over 100 countries across Africa, the Americas, Europe, Oceania, and Asia were present, totaling more than 400 participants, including representatives from over 160 dioceses, religious orders, and lay organizations.
In his welcoming remarks, Archbishop Jeong stated, "The second international preparatory meeting is a new starting point for the global church to collaboratively create the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day while sharing what we have prepared so far."
He added, "The organizing committee has been steadily preparing with the Vatican, the Korean church, the government, and numerous volunteers. While there is still work to be done, we are confident in our ability to prepare well for the event."
Archbishop Jeong emphasized that youth are at the center of all preparations. He expressed hope that when young people come to Seoul, they will have experiences beyond merely participating in a large event, encouraging them to meet one another, gain courage in their faith, and view their lives from a new perspective.
Cardinal Farrell expressed gratitude to Archbishop Jeong and the Korean church for their preparations, stating, "This World Youth Day is not just an event but a living expression of the Gospel message."
He also shared an anecdote about Pope Francis expressing a desire for the event to be held in Korea during discussions about the 2027 WYD location. He urged dioceses and parishes worldwide to begin preparing for the pilgrimage of the World Youth Day, stating, "The journey begins today."
Cardinal Farrell added that the Seoul WYD should not be limited to a week of events but should become a journey for youth to practice their faith within their communities and families.
The first session following the opening ceremony focused on the theme "WYD 40th Anniversary: Pastoral Fruits, Legacy, Challenges, and New Opportunities for the Future," discussing the achievements and future directions of the World Youth Day over the past 40 years.
Cardinal Americo Aguiar, the overall coordinator for the 2023 Lisbon WYD; Victor Chang, secretary general of the 2019 Panama WYD; and Father Joao Chagas, former head of the youth department at the Vatican's Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, shared insights based on their experiences from past events. The session included a Q&A and a presentation from the International Youth Advisory Body.
Participants enjoyed a 'K-Culture Night' on September 14, featuring performances of traditional Korean dances, K-pop, and traditional games. On September 15, they explored various programs for the 2027 Seoul WYD at the 'Diocesan Conference (DID) Expo,' which involved 13 dioceses nationwide.
A Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Jeong at Myeongdong Cathedral on September 16. The international preparatory meeting will conclude with a farewell Mass led by Bishop Lee Kyung-sang on September 17, wrapping up the four-day event.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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