JUBILEE OF TEENAGERS!!!

The Canonization of

Carlo Acutis was originally scheduled for April 27th; however, with the recent passing of Pope Francis, the canonization has been postponed until further notice.

SPIRITUAL REFLECTION

In anticipation of the Jubilee of Teenagers, set within a yearlong celebration of hope, we remember the words of Saint Pope John Paul II in his message to young people for the 12th World Youth Day:

We are living in an era of great changes: the rapid decline of ideologies that seemed to promise a long resistance to the wear and tear of time; the tracing out on the planet of new confines and frontiers. Humanity often finds itself uncertain, bewildered and anxious (cf. Mt 9:36). But the word of God knows no decline; throughout history and among changing events, it remains firm and gives light (cf. Mt 24:35). The faith of the Church is founded on Jesus Christ, the one Saviour of the world, yesterday and today and forever (cf. Heb 13:8). It gives Christ as reference for an answer to the questions rising up from the human heart in the face of the mystery of life and death. Only from Christ, indeed, can there be answers that do not deceive nor disappoint.

Do not be afraid! It is in Christ that we find our hope. Romans 5:1-5 tells us, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us.”

Every age and generation of teenagers that has gone before us has been faced with challenges and struggles in this world. But do not be alarmed because we have hope in Christ Jesus! By clinging to the joy of the Gospel and the witness of Christ, we can find the strength we need to face the adversities of our age.

Let us look at the lives of the young saints who have paved the way for us like Bl. Carlo Acutis whose devotion for the Eucharist evangelized countless people from around the world or Bl. Chiara Badano who radiated joy in her sufferings at the end of her life and looked with anticipation on being united to Christ. We must reclaim this joy that has been given to us by Christ to be witnesses to the world around us.

As you celebrate this beautiful Jubilee of Teenagers, radiate your joy and love for the Lord with all those whom you interact with on the internet and in real life. Remember these words from 1 Timothy 4:12, “Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.” You are the Church of now and Christ is dwelling in you! Witness to the joy and hope that is found in Christ Jesus so the world may know the reason for your joy.