Citing one of the most recent messages for peace offered by Pope Francis - the one pronounced last February 23, on the sidelines of the general audience - Fr García Morcuende and Sister Borja recall that God “is the God of peace and not of war; who is the Father of all, not just of some, who wants us to be brothers and not enemies.”

That's why standing by and just watching is not an option. “We cannot be indifferent or think that we cannot do anything or even that the situation does not affect us. In reality, everything is connected... and the very network of the Salesian Youth Movement includes young people from Ukraine and Russia,” the two General Councilors emphasize.

In view, therefore, of the imminent beginning of the liturgical season of Lent, “God's call to return to Him,” and in the face of the current situation, those responsible for YM in Europe are therefore exhorted “to animate a more mature awareness and response with the young people of the Salesian Youth Movement in the face of this situation.”

Concretely, in addition to adhering to the day of prayer and fasting proposed by the Pope for Ash Wednesday, March 2, other viable initiatives have been suggested:

-      Intensify personal and group prayer, invoking from God the gift of peace;

-      Organize meetings to learn more about the situation;

-      Value personal meetings (in presence or online) with people involved in the drama of this war that has already lasted for years;

-      Organize and participate in vigils, demonstrations, campaigns for peace and for the respect of human rights;

-      Cultivate nonviolent attitudes and make gestures of closeness, listening, patience, peace and solidarity in daily life.

Although the pandemic has encouraged many people to withdraw into themselves, the two General Councilors have faith in young people, especially those of the SYM, and are convinced that they “have not lost the desire to build a better society and the dream of a peaceful world, respect for the dignity of every person, justice, care for humanity and the earth.”

And while invoking Mary, Queen of Peace, they renew the invitation to seize this kairos, this call of God,  “to live authentic experiences of accompanying young people to be global citizens and responsible for a world that is a home for all.”

• Title Title
•  

Tweet