In Seoul, the annual meeting of the International Youth Advisory Body (IYAB)

On the sidelines of the 2nd International Meeting in preparation for World Youth Day Seoul 2027, the annual meeting of the IYAB – International Youth Advisory Body was held on 19 September at the offices of the Seoul Local Organising Committee.

The 20 young people who support the work of the Dicastery’s Youth Area (cf. no. 123), in accordance with a specific request in the Final Document of the Synod on Young People of 2018, gathered for a study day centred on three themes of particular importance and interest: World Youth Day as a journey before, during and after the event; youth ministry in various ecclesial contexts; and the evangelisation and formation of young people in a constantly changing world.

Drawing on the recent experience of the 2nd Preparatory Meeting and the realities of their own countries, the young members of the IYAB worked in groups, following the synodal method, to develop proposals aimed at making the WYD an experience capable of bearing fruit over time and of becoming fully integrated into the ordinary experience of pastoral life.

With regard to WYD as a journey, the focus was on how to accompany young people along a path of preparation for WYD. Producing materials for spiritual and cultural preparation, providing more opportunities for prayer, and offering pilgrims chances to meet and serve were among the topics discussed.

Particular attention was also given to the theme of the ‘return home’ after a WYD. Accompanying young people so that they can share what they have experienced, and supporting their journey within parishes, dioceses and youth groups, could become part of ordinary pastoral care.

Furthermore, during the study day, the young members of the IYAB took part in group activities to develop proposals on effective ways to involve young people by giving them concrete responsibilities in preparing other young people and in the life of the Church, whilst making the most of their skills.

A Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Franco Galdino marked the start of the day. Commenting on the parable of the sower, he invited the young members to cherish the seed that the Lord had sown in their hearts during the days leading up to World Youth Day. He emphasised the importance of allowing themselves to be nourished by the Word of God, so that their contribution as members of an advisory body might, above all, spring from listening to God.

The Gospel’s invitation, ‘Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear!’, marked the start of the day.