HONG KONG (SE): The Diocesan Youth Commission has announced an opportunity for young Catholics aged 18 to 35 to join a 14-day pilgrimage to Italy. The journey, culminating in the Jubilee of Youth with Pope Francis, will take place from July 27 to August 9, and promises to be a transformative experience of faith, community, and cultural enrichment.
Pope Francis has personally extended an invitation to young people worldwide to gather in Rome for the Jubilee of Youth from July 28 to August 3 this year. The event, described as a “mini World Youth Day,” will serve as a global celebration of the Jubilee Year and an opportunity for young Catholics to deepen their faith and experience the universal Church. Participants will join liturgies, visit holy sites, and engage in a programme designed to embolden and inspire their spiritual lives.
The pilgrimage will be divided into two parts. The first will focus on the Jubilee of Youth celebrations in Rome, where participants will gather with peers from around the world for prayer, reflection, and festivities centred on the theme of hope and renewal. The second part will extend the journey to other historic destinations in Italy, offering a rich exploration of the country’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Adding to the spiritual depth of the experience, Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., bishop of Hong Kong, will join the group in Rome during the pilgrimage. His presence will provide participants with opportunities for spiritual guidance and reflection as they journey together in faith.
The estimated cost of the pilgrimage is HKD 21,000, which includes airfare, accommodations, and meals. Participants are encouraged to register early, as spaces are limited and demand is expected to be high.
The Diocesan Youth Commission has emphasised the unique nature of this opportunity, highlighting the profound impact it can have on the lives of young people.
“How many Jubilees can a person experience in a lifetime?” the commission reflected. “And more importantly, how many can one experience during their youth?” This journey offers a rare chance to connect deeply with faith, be inspired by the Pope’s vision for the Jubilee, and foster a sense of hope and mission within the global Catholic community.
Young Catholics interested in joining this pilgrimage are encouraged to contact the Diocesan Youth Commission for further details. Updates and registration information will also be shared through the DYC’s official social media platforms.
The Diocese of Hong Kong calls on young people to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the Jubilee of the Youth. By joining this extraordinary pilgrimage, participants will not only strengthen their own faith but also return home as beacons of hope for their communities, living out the Jubilee’s theme of renewal and reconciliation.
