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(Originally published by the Archdiocese of Seoul on November 25, 2023. Reposted with permission.)
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The vibrant heart of Seoul pulsated with spiritual energy on Nov. 25 as the Archdiocese hosted an extraordinary event, heralding the anticipation of Seoul as the host city for World Youth Day (WYD) in 2027. This gathering marked the first diocesan celebration since the announcement, and it was a testament to the city's readiness to embrace the global youth event in four years.

The event, orchestrated by the Youth Department of the Archdiocese of Seoul, featured a diverse array of activities that resonated with the fervor of youth engagement in matters of faith. The highlight was a youth mass, presided over by Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung, whose homily underscored the significance of youthful participation in spiritual journeys.

“If we view WYD simply as a large-scale event or a mission that needs to be accomplished, we overlook its true essence. Instead, it is a moment for us to unite our hearts, thoughts, and strength, preparing to extend invitations to our fellow young Catholics worldwide. Together, we come together to celebrate the feast of faith, transcending borders and races.”

Archbishop Chung reminded the young participants of the Holy Father’s message for the 38th diocesan WYD, “The theme ‘Rejoice in Hope’ is a message of encouragement and hope for young people, who often face challenges and difficulties in today’s world. Pope Francis says that Christian hope is the certain knowledge of God’s presence among us, and it is this hope that gives us the strength to move forward, even when we face difficulties.”

The celebration unfolded with an engaging exhibition and talk concert, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the history and significance of WYD. Fr. Peter Joo-yul Yang, head of the WYD Seoul 2027 preparatory committee, led the talk concert, providing insights into the future plans for WYD 2027. Young individuals who had experienced WYD in Lisbon shared their journeys, creating an atmosphere of shared enthusiasm and anticipation.

Following the enlightening talks, an outdoor confession setup provided attendees with a unique and serene atmosphere to connect with their spirituality. Under the open sky, participants found solace and reflection, creating an intimate and personal experience amidst nature's embrace. The outdoor confession became a profound moment of communion with one's faith, adding a distinctive touch to the celebratory atmosphere.

The rosary and candlelight procession after the mass contributed to the atmosphere by emitting a gentle glow that lit up the night. This soft illumination created a visually captivating scene, bringing together the collective aspirations of the young participants. Serving as a testament to unity and shared devotion, the procession shed light on the profound spiritual significance of WYD.

In 2020, Pope Francis shifted the diocesan celebration of WYD from Palm Sunday to Christ the King Sunday, aligning it with a broader global observance. This change added a unique resonance to the Seoul event, linking it with the global fabric of WYD celebrations.

As the event concluded, the Archdiocese of Seoul stood not only as a host of a remarkable celebration but also as a beacon of anticipation for the global youth event in 2027. The November 25 gathering was not just a celebration; it was a promise of the vibrant and dynamic engagement that Seoul is poised to offer as the host city for WYD in 2027.