Experiencing the Joy of the Jubilee of Young People in Rome
Thousands of young people from all over the world have gathered in Rome for their Jubilee, a special occasion to pay their respects to Pope Francis. One of the highlights of their visit was a moving prayer event called the “Via Lucis”, where they reflected on the Resurrection of Christ.
Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, welcomed the enthusiastic teenagers with open arms. He encouraged them to embrace the journey of the Risen Christ, reminding them that life is a mix of joys, sorrows, questions, and hopes.
The Via Lucis took place at the Steps of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in southern Rome. This prayer initiative, inspired by the stations of the cross, focuses on the Resurrection and was started by the Salesians in 1988.
A Time of Songs, Prayers, and Meditations
After visiting St Peter’s to meet Pope Francis, the young people made their way to the south of Rome. They sang, waved flags, and joined in prayer with the choir of the Diocese of Rome during this special moment.
A youth theatre troupe read passages from the seven stations of the Via Lucis, accompanied by meditations from the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. The atmosphere was filled with music, and the iconic song from the 2000 World Youth Day, “Jesus Christ you are my life”, echoed through the air.
Fr Massimo Tellan, the Roman parish priest who organized the event, explained, “The Via Lucis follows the encounters of the risen Jesus with those who witnessed the resurrection, from Easter Day to Pentecost, mirroring the Lenten Way of the Cross.”
Embracing Grief with Hope
The Paschal Candle, which was present next to the Pope’s coffin during its transfer to St Peter’s, also played a significant role in the Via Lucis. Seven torches were lit from its flame, symbolizing the light of Christ shining in the darkness.
Don Massimo emphasized the importance of praying with the perspective of hope, especially during moments of transition and pain. He reminded the young people that as believers, death is a journey towards the Father’s house, and through Christ, they can find comfort and solace.
This unforgettable experience of prayer and reflection at the Via Lucis will surely leave a lasting impact on the hearts of these young pilgrims, as they continue their journey of faith and discovery.
