The Great Pilgrimage of Hope (GPH) may have ended, but its message continues to echo across Asia. If the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) describes the Church as one “in dialogue for mission,” GPH 2025 makes it clear who will help drive that mission forward: the youth.
Their strong presence in Penang, marked by energy and missionary zeal, sent a simple but urgent message: the Church needs to shift its structures to match the passion and spirituality of young people today.
The Missionary Present
For decades, we have called young people the “future” of the Church. But GPH 2025 showed something different: they are the Church’s missionary present.
Throughout the pilgrimage, young delegates didn’t just participate; they led. They facilitated intergenerational conversations, spearheaded digital evangelization sessions, and shared bold ideas on mission. Their leadership showed what is possible when youth are trusted with real responsibility.
To build on this momentum, local Churches are now challenged to take concrete steps.
Making Synodality Real
If the Church wants authentic renewal, young people must be part of its actual decision-making.
Youth Leaders
Dioceses and parishes are encouraged to open key seats in Pastoral and Finance Councils to qualified young leaders, not as symbolic members, but as active contributors and even co-chairpersons.
Culture of Accompaniment
Priests, religious, and elders need training in synodal listening and mentorship, helping them walk with young people as companions rather than supervisors. This includes supporting youth as they discern their vocations and navigate major life choices.
Digital Mission
Young people are natural missionaries in the digital world, but they need proper tools and support.
Investment
A dedicated Digital Seed Fund in every diocese could support podcasts, vlogs, social media campaigns, and other creative initiatives run by local youth teams.
Training
Workshops on media literacy, digital ethics, content creation, and fighting misinformation are essential to turn youthful enthusiasm into responsible and impactful mission.
Serving the Poor and Building Bridges
Mission in Asia is rooted in service and dialogue.
Charity Projects
Parishes are encouraged to organize at least one major outreach initiative each year, led by young people, especially for migrants, indigenous groups, and those living on the margins.
Interreligious Dialogue
Young Catholics should have opportunities to join local dialogue forums, learning how to build friendships across faiths, a vital witness in Asia’s diverse cultural landscape.
The Call of GPH 2025
The strongest message emerging from GPH 2025 is clear: the Church must move from doing ministry “for” the youth to doing ministry “with” them.
This shift demands two commitments:
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Opening Church structures to include the voices and leadership of young people
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Prioritizing resources to support youth-led initiatives, especially in the digital mission
The youth have already shown their passion and readiness. The question now is directed at the rest of the Church: Do we trust them enough to let them lead? Do we have the courage to welcome their creativity, their boldness, and even their “holy imperfections”?
GPH 2025 leaves the Church with a challenge and a promise. If we walk with our young people, the mission in Asia will not only continue but flourish.
