The first World Children’s Day is scheduled to take place in Rome, Italy, from May 25 to 26. This large-scale international gathering focused on children aged 5 to 12-years-old. The theme was “Behold, I have made all things new” [Revelation 21:5]. Children are the future of the Church and the world. Our aim is to help them develop correct values such as freedom, equality, respect, and care from an early age, and to ignite hope in the Church and society.
Tens of thousands of children and their parents gathered in Rome from all over the world for the event. Just three weeks after its official website was launched, more than 50,000 people from 60 countries had signed up for the event. The organizers hoped that all children, especially those affected by war, would attend. Children from Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine, Russia, and other countries were also invited. In addition, children submitted drawings and writings, allowing adults to hear their appeals for peace and take their voices seriously.
Children are the most vulnerable group in society because they cannot protect themselves and depend on others for support. They often have little influence in politics and society. During times of war or crisis, they are the first to suffer and are at risk of exploitation, forced labour, or recruitment as child soldiers. This severely impacts their physical and mental development and causes lasting harm.
It is crucial for adults to protect children. The Convention on the Rights of the Child, which was officially adopted by the United Nations on 20 November 1989, is the first treaty to safeguard children’s basic human rights. These rights encompass the right to survival, protection, development, and participation. In 1994, the convention was extended to Hong Kong, and the provisions continue to apply in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
The Diocese of Hong Kong sent eight children to World Children’s Day. They represented eight deaneries and were excited to embark on this journey. Prior to departure, they participated in a series of events organised by the diocese including a Children’s Taizé Prayer, a Children’s Eucharistic Adoration, and a Children’s Parliament, preparing them in body, mind, and spirit for the big event. On May 26, at 10.30am local time, Pope Francis presided at a thanksgiving Mass in St. Peter’s Square, where children from Hong Kong came together with children from around the world.
Pope Francis designated 2024 as the Year of Prayer, particularly inviting children to regularly recite the Our Father, the prayer Jesus himself taught us, to deepen their relationship with God and to help build a new world that is more humane, just, and peaceful. SE
