● Whom is God pointing me( or us) towards?
● What needs to change within me( or us) to better accept and understand this situation?
● How can I( or we) respond and react in a calm, patient, and mature manner?
At any unexpected hitches, it is important to remind pilgrims that the Holy Spirit can make use of such moments. It is at those moments when the true goal of pilgrimage reveals itself – transformation and conversion of heart to embrace God’ s will.
Being open to the will of God and adaptable to wherever the Lord calls also means discovering new paths at the end of WYD. For a great number of pilgrims, WYD impacts their lives significantly, perhaps even giving them a new direction. For the past several years, WYD has played an increasing role in the discernment process of newly ordained priests, deacons, and professed religious sisters and brothers. Others meet their future spouses at WYD. Still others discern a call to become more active in their local parish community or diocese / eparchy, to pursue a degree or continuing education in Church ministry, or to embark on missionary work. WYD can become an integral part of the vocational discernment process, opening young people up to the possibility that their lives might be headed in a new direction.
Pilgrimage leaders are encouraged to help youth and young adults in their discernment. Consider collaborating with local priests and consecrated men and women, as well as marriage ministry leaders and other lay ecclesial ministers, to help pilgrims consider God’ s call at WYD. During WYD events in Panamá, be aware of opportunities for young people to connect with priests, consecrated religious, lay ecclesial ministers, and married couples who are there.
After the return home, follow up with any pilgrims who had been discerning those particular pathways. Be positive and encouraging to pilgrims who express interest and excitement about any vocation, whether it be to a state in life or a special form of service or ministry. When it comes to discerning a call to the priesthood, the role of the youth ministry and / or young adult ministry leader is one of the most important factors. Encourage and help youth and young adult pilgrims walk through their next steps towards responding positively to God’ s call for their lives.
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