The Art of Discernment: Pope Francis Encourages Youth Ministries
Addressing participants at the Vatican’s International Congress on Youth Ministry, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of discernment in our daily lives. He urged individuals to be authentic before themselves, others, and God.
By Delphine Allaire
On Saturday, May 25th, Pope Francis welcomed attendees of the International Congress of Youth Ministry hosted by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life. The gathering united young people and representatives from various episcopal conferences, associations, and ecclesial movements.
Reflecting on the Youth Jubilee in July 2025 and the upcoming World Youth Day in Seoul, Pope Francis expressed his desire for these events to lead young people, even those distant from the church, to encounter Jesus.
Christian Joy
During the event, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of daily life and the ministry of small steps and simple words and actions. He encouraged youth ministries to focus on these less visible experiences as they can deeply impact hearts and bear lasting fruit over time.
The Pope mentioned his upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis and urged participants to read his apostolic exhortation on everyday holiness, Gaudete et exsultate.
The ‘Treasure’ of Discernment
Pope Francis emphasized the importance of spiritual discernment, calling it an art that requires depth, experience, and practice. He noted that having a wise guide in the journey of faith and discovering one’s vocation can help avoid mistakes and moments of confusion.
Accompaniment: Communal and Personal
The Pope stressed that discernment must be synodal, personal, and truth-oriented. He highlighted the need for communal support in a society dominated by individualism and emphasized the uniqueness of each individual’s journey.
Discernment, according to Pope Francis, leads individuals towards authenticity, helping them move past artificial identities and discover their true selves before themselves, others, and God.
In closing, Pope Francis urged continued listening to young people, emphasizing the importance of genuine engagement and empowerment within the Church.
