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(Originally published by the Archdiocese of Seoul on July 29, 2024. Reposted with permission.)
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With the theme “Hope Ignites in Seoul. Success for WYD Seoul 2027,” the World Youth Day (WYD) Seoul 2027 was officially launched yesterday afternoon at the historic Myeongdong Cathedral. The kick-off ceremony, which began at 2 PM, marked the beginning of the journey towards the highly anticipated global event, with several prominent guests and over 1,000 young attendees coming together to celebrate.

Among the esteemed guests of honor were Archbishop Giovanni Gaspari, the Apostolic Nuncio to Korea; Dr. Gleison De Paula Souza, Secretary of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life; diplomatic representatives from eight countries; Yong Ho-sung, Vice Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; 19 members of the National Assembly; and 9 members of the Seoul City Council. The event was notably attended by a diverse group of young people, including North Korean defectors, youth with disabilities, and soldiers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, symbolizing unity and inclusivity.

Kick-off Ceremony Highlights
 

• The vibrant kick-off ceremony commenced with a spectacular flag parade, featuring young Koreans alongside international youths bearing 193 flags as they gracefully entered Myeongdong Cathedral. Each flag's presence symbolized the worldwide affirmative response to Pope Francis’ invitation for Seoul to host WYD in 2027.

• Following the stirring procession, the ceremony included a moving puzzle ceremony and an official photo session, capturing the unity and joy of the moment.

• A significant highlight of the ceremony was the Kick-off Declaration. This pivotal moment was led by Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung, the Chair of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for WYD Seoul 2027, alongside two young Korean delegates. Their declaration marked the official commencement of preparations for the 2027 event and symbolized the collective commitment of the Church and young people to this inspiring journey.
   

Economic Impact Unveiling
 

The economic significance of WYD Seoul 2027 was spotlighted during the ceremony. The KDI School of Public Policy and Management's analysis revealed considerable economic effects, predicting a total of KRW 11.3698 trillion in production impacts, KRW 1.5908 trillion in value-added effects, and the creation of 24,725 jobs.
 

Solemn Kick-off Mass

• Following the ceremony, a sacred Kick-off Mass was presided over by Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung. The Mass was concelebrated by Cardinal Andrew Soo-jung Yeom, Bishop Job Yo-bi Koo, Bishop Paul Kyung-sang Lee (the General Coordinator of the WYD Seoul 2027 LOC), and Bishop Titus Sang-Bum Seo (Bishop of the Korea Military Ordinariate).

• In his homily, Archbishop Chung conveyed a powerful message: “I harbor a profound aspiration that the Church will offer a platform for the youth of our time—a stage where they can emerge as the protagonists of their own narratives. I am confident that this stage will serve as an opportunity and a space of hope for all of you. Together, I wish to cultivate this shared hope through WYD. I believe that WYD represents an invaluable opportunity for youth from across the globe, including our Korean youth, to reflect upon and engage with these challenging tasks. It is imperative that we unite our hearts, pray together, and discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit as we earnestly prepare for this journey.”

• The Universal Prayer was led in various languages by young people from different countries, symbolizing the global unity embraced by WYD. The Mass concluded with congratulatory remarks from Archbishop Giovanni Gaspari and Dr. Gleison De Paula Souza.
   

Congratulatory Remarks from Archbishop Giovanni Gaspari

Archbishop Giovanni Gaspari highlighted the profound connection between the Pope and the youth, stating, “Young people inspire hope and sympathy in the Pope’s heart. It strikes the great sympathy and passion with which he speaks about the young and to the young. The Pope looks to you, the young people of Korea, with great confidence and affection. He recognizes the essential contribution you can make to the WYD Seoul 2027 and accompanies you with his prayers.”
 

Congratulatory Remarks from Dr. Gleison De Paula Souza

Dr. Gleison De Paula Souza expressed gratitude and optimism, stating, “Pope Francis has chosen Seoul as the host city for the upcoming WYD, aware of Korea’s rich history and culture. It is a city that embodies the spirit of innovation and hope, values that are intrinsic to our mission. To all the young people present and those unable to join us, I fervently wish that this journey be one of discovery, growth, and joy for you. May you return to your homes inspired and motivated to effect change within your communities and the broader world. As the theme for today proclaims, ‘Hope ignites in Seoul!’ May our hearts too be kindled in anticipation of this marvelously imagined experience leading up to 2027.”
 

Upcoming Events

In anticipation of WYD Seoul 2027, the motto for the event will be revealed in September. Additionally, the WYD symbols will be ceremoniously handed over to Seoul in November, marking another significant milestone on this inspiring journey.