The Organizing Committee for World Youth Day (WYD) Seoul 2027 has announced the patron saints who will guide young Catholics spiritually during the global gathering set on August 3–8, 2027, in South Korea’s capital.
Named as patrons are St. John Paul II, founder of World Youth Day; St. Andrew Kim Taegon and his companion martyrs; St. Frances Xavier Cabrini; St. Josephine Bakhita; and Blessed Carlo Acutis.
Organizers said the saints were chosen as models of faith whose lives reflect the event’s core themes of truth, love, and peace.
St. John Paul II (1920–2005) is widely remembered for his strong engagement with young people and his teachings on family and the dignity of human life. St. Andrew Kim Taegon (1821–1846), the first Korean Catholic priest, and his fellow martyrs symbolize courage and fidelity to the faith, having given their lives at a young age. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini (1850–1917) is known for her missionary work, especially among migrants and the poor, while St. Josephine Bakhita (1869–1947), a former slave who became a religious sister, stands as a witness to hope and freedom shaped through suffering.
Meanwhile, Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991–2006) is recognized as a model of holiness in the digital age and an inspiration for today’s youth.
The selection followed a consultation process that began in late 2024, involving young people, youth ministers, and formators across the country. The organizing committee made the final decision after reviewing the results.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family, and Life, underscored the role of patron saints in preparing for World Youth Day, saying they encourage young people to discern God’s call and respond with generosity and courage.
He expressed hope that their witness would inspire youth worldwide, especially those facing hardship and persecution.
For his part, Seoul Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung said the chosen saints represent different continents and generations, offering concrete examples of how to live out the faith in today’s world.
Organizers said they will continue promoting the lives and spirituality of the saints through the official WYD Seoul 2027 website and social media platforms, along with formation programs for participants.
An interactive feature titled “Meet Your Patron Saint!” was also launched, allowing young people to discover which of the five saints they most relate to through a series of questions, encouraging a more personal connection with the saints as companions in faith.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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