A National Youth Forum was held in the Diocese of Ruyigi from 5 to 8 August 2024 with the participation of more than 4.000 young people, more than 95% of whom are members of Catholic Action movements.
60 priests have accompanied these young people. All the bishops of Burundi were present at this National Forum.
The following themes were discussed:
1. ‘And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself’. (Jn 12,32) : Origin, history, pilgrimage of the Cross for young people and its deepest meaning.
2 . ‘Hope does not disappoint’. (Rom 5:5): Theme of the Church’s Jubilee in 2025.
3 ‘You are the only one on earth; you are the light of the world’ (Mt 5,13ff): The role of young people in ensuring free, transparent and peaceful elections.
4 ‘Do not take the present world as your model’ (RM 12,2): Conversion to Christ and a change of mentality, the basis of a human and Christian life for young people.
5 ‘Be reconciled to God’ (2Cor 5,20): Forgiveness and reconciliation, essential pillars for sustainable peace and development.
Each day, there was the Holy Eucharist, Adoration, the Sacrament of Penance and questions to deepen understanding of the different themes.
Forums of this kind are held in every diocese.
