The Rise of the Youth as the Church’s Guiding Light

As the elders of the church grow older, the question of who will carry the torch and serve God’s flock into the future has become increasingly pressing. However, according to church leaders, the answer lies in the youth – the very group that some may have written off as disengaged or disinterested in the faith.

“The youth is the hope of the country and the church,” declares Most Rev. Abel Apigo, D.D., the Bishop of Mati, in his homily during the 5th DADITAMA youth convention. This sentiment, long advertised as a patriotic uniting cry, now rings true within the walls of the church as well.

The COVID-19 pandemic, a period of great disorder, has in fact served as a catalyst for young people to step up and breathe new life into the church. Traditionally, roles such as extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, Pangulo sa Alagad and gift bearers were reserved for elder parishioners. But when the call for help of Archbishop Romulo G. Valles went out, it was the youth who answered.

This surge of youthful energy and commitment is not merely a passing trend, but rather a demonstration to the dynamic role the next generation is self-assured to play in the future of the church. Through activities like youth camps and Flores de Mayo, young people are not only deepening their own faith, but also honing the leadership, servanthood, and spiritual fortitude that will sustain the church for years to come.

Yet, the path has not been without its challenges. Some elders within the church have been slow to embrace the youth’s enthusiasm, at times even voicing discouragement or negativity that threatens to dampen the flame of their devotion. The youth is not your enemy: We are the future you, servants of the church.

Despite these hindrances, the resilience and courage of the youth shine through. They recognize that following Christ is no easy task, and they are willing to bear their crosses alongside the church’s leadership. In doing so, they are igniting a spiritual awakening that is hovering to carry the ministry into new era.

As the church navigates an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world, the youth stand ready to be its guiding light. They are the future faithful, the beacons of hope that will ensure the church’s enduring legacy. With the support and mentorship of the elders, this rising generation is dignified to transform the church from within, ushering in a new era of dynamic, youth-driven leadership. Dasig mga kabatan-onan! (Jomar Earl D. Narciso | DAYCA Media Ministry Member)