NBW and the youth

The 25th National Bible Workshop (NBW) hosted by the Archdiocese of Davao on February 19-22, 2024 opens our eyes to the vital call that the youth play in spreading the Word of God to the peripheries.

The theme, “Y.B.A. Kami Para sa Tanan”, offers an active role that Y.B.A. (Youth Bible Apostles) play in the Christian community. It attempts to equip them of the doctrinal and ethical positions of the Church.

Pope Francis observes that, “the Synod recognized that a substantial number of young people, for all sorts of reasons, do not ask the Church for anything because they do not see her as significant for their lives. Some even ask expressly to be left alone, as they find the presence of the Church a nuisance, even an irritant” (Christus Vivit 40).

The Church must remember that “the word of God encourages us to remain close to the elderly, so that we can benefit from their experience: “Stand in the assembly of the elders. Who is wise? Cling to him… If you see an intelligent man, visit him; let your foot wear out his doorstep” (Sir6:34.36).(CV 188)…. The Bible also tells us: “Listen to your father who begot you, and do not despise your mother when she is old” (Prov 23:22) (CV 189).

We thank the Episcopal Commission on the Biblical Apostolate (ECBA) for introducing the youth to partake of the mission to spread the Word of God. “Particular gratitude is also due for “the generous commitment of countless lay persons, priests, consecrated men and women, and bishops who daily devote themselves with integrity and dedication to the service of the young. (CV 99).