ZAMBIA: ZCCB Affirms Church’s Vibrant Future: 2 Million Youths at WYD In Lisbon Prove Vitality

Mwenya Mukuka

The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has hailed the participation of over 2 million young people at the World Youth Days held recently in Lisbon as a powerful testament to the vitality and future of the Catholic Church. ZCCB National Youth Coordinator Fr. Christopher Kunda, SDB, emphasized that the overwhelming presence of young individuals at the event dispels any notions of the Catholic Church’s decline.

Sharing insights and benefits from the 2023 World Youth Days, Fr. Kunda remarked that although the Church faces certain challenges, the commitment, enthusiasm, and sacrifice displayed by the youths, alongside their fervent support for the Pope, stand as reassurance that the Church is not only thriving but also poised for growth in the years ahead.

Fr. Kunda underlined the significance of the World Youth Days, stating that they play a crucial role in nurturing faith and fostering a sense of community among young people. He revealed that his office intends to collaborate with diocesan youth coordinators and others involved in youth animation to explore ways in which more youths can participate in the upcoming World Youth Days which will be held in South Korea.

“We are deeply reflecting on how to harness and translate the experiences from Lisbon into tangible benefits for those who were unable to attend. Our aim is to involve diocesan youth coordinators and other stakeholders in the youth animation process, ensuring that even those who couldn’t be present directly benefit from the shared experiences of their peers,” Fr. Kunda explained. “Additionally, we aim to establish a pastoral model for youths characterized by faith and fan, bearing in mind the dynamic nature of these young individuals.”

Fr. Kunda further urged young people to prepare ahead of time for the upcoming World Youth Days scheduled for South Korea in 2027. He called upon Zambian youths to embrace the opportunity to gather, celebrate their faith, and contribute to the growing vibrancy of the Catholic Church on a global stage.

Recently a delegation of Zambian youths actively participated in the World Youth Days hosted in Lisbon, Portugal, becoming an integral part of the diverse and vibrant global Catholic community.

Ends///