St. John Paul II, echoing the teaching of the Second Vatican Council, addressed the youth in these words: “Young people are ‘the hope of the Church,’ and he addressed the young people of that time—as also to those of today and of all time—a ‘closing message’ in which the Church is described as the real youth of the world, as the one who ‘possesses what constitutes strength and the charm of youth, that is to say, the ability to rejoice with what is beginning, to give oneself unreservedly, to renew oneself, and to set out again for new conquests.'”

–St. John Paul II (DILECTI AMICI, 1985)

In alignment with this vision, our Religious Family here in the Philippines recently hosted Universitas, a Catholic formation program dedicated to university students and young professionals, held from June 18 to 21. This year, the central theme of the event was “The Life that Jesus Communicates Through the Sacraments.” The everyday event offered a comprehensive itinerary designed to foster spiritual growth and community life. Theological conferences given by priests from the Institute of the Incarnate Word (IVE) delivered a series of lectures exploring the profound significance of the various sacraments in the life of a believer. The participants engaged daily in the sacramental life of the Church by attending the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, praying the Liturgy of the Hours, and reciting the Holy Rosary. Dedicated periods were set aside for Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, allowing for personal encounter and interior renewal. Complementing the spiritual and intellectual formation, the program featured various recreational games and cultural competitions, fostering a spirit of joyful fellowship.

We offer our profound gratitude to God, through the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, for the abundant graces bestowed during this event. It is our fervent prayer that He will continue to inflame the hearts of these young people, inspiring them to place Jesus Christ at the absolute center of their lives.