“Our theme speaks deeply to the realities facing young people today,” he said. “Across the world, many experience the effects of conflict, violence, discrimination, economic hardship, mental health struggles, climate anxiety, and uncertainty about the future.”
Yet young people also show remarkable courage, resilience, compassion, and hope, Pillay added.
“You are building communities of care, working for peace, protecting creation, advocating for justice, and standing alongside those who are vulnerable,” he said. “As the World Council of Churches and as churches around the world, we must ask: how can we become spaces for healing?”
Pillay reflected that he believes it begins with listening—and listening must lead to action. “Our churches …
“Our theme speaks deeply to the realities facing young people today,” he said. “Across the world, many experience the effects of conflict, violence, discrimination, economic hardship, mental health struggles, climate anxiety, and uncertainty about the future.”
Yet young people also show remarkable courage, resilience, compassion, and hope, Pillay added.
“You are building communities of care, working for peace, protecting creation, advocating for justice, and standing alongside those who are vulnerable,” he said. “As the World Council of Churches and as churches around the world, we must ask: how can we become spaces for healing?”
Pillay reflected that he believes it begins with listening—and listening must lead to action. “Our churches should be places where young people know they belong, where difficult conversations can happen without judgement, and where those who are hurting find accompaniment and hope,” he said. “To the young people gathered today: you are not only recipients of healing. You are also agents of healing. Through your commitment to justice, peace, creation, and community, you are already creating healing spaces.”
The WCC is promoting an online commemoration of the Ecumenical International Youth Day on 13 August in two sessions, at 9:00 CEST and 15:00 CEST, enabling young people and faith communities from different regions and time zones to participate—combining prayer and creative presentations with reflection on the “breaches” affecting communities, examples of healing initiatives, resource persons, training, shared experiences, and opportunities for discussion in breakout groups.