Major Superiors of Religious, Pakistan, inspire young people to live faith with courage and commitment
Lahore, Pakistan — In a spirit of faith, joy, and renewal, a youth formation program titled “Empowering Youth to Be Pilgrims of Hope in the Present World” was recently organized under the auspices of the Major Superiors of Religious, Pakistan. The gathering brought together young men and women from various religious communities, united in their desire to grow in hope and missionary zeal amid the challenges of modern life.
The event was presided over by Rev. Fr. Pascal Paulus, OP, and featured Rev. Fr. Francis Sabir, OFM Cap, as the keynote speaker. The Masters of Ceremony were Rev. Fr. Faryad Munir, OFM Cap, and Rev. Deacon Rufin Arif, OP, who conducted the program with warmth, clarity, and reverence.
Opening of the Program: A Call to Hope
The day began with a heartfelt welcome and an introductory note that highlighted the importance of empowering the youth to become “pilgrims of hope”—active witnesses of Christ’s love and mercy in today’s world.
An opening prayer led by Br. Alyan Ameen, OFM Cap, invoked God’s blessings upon all participants, setting a reflective and joyful tone for the day. This was followed by a Scripture reading from 1 Timothy 4:6–12, proclaimed by Deacon Zeeshan, calling the young people to be “examples in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.”
The prayerful atmosphere was enriched by a hymn, “Let Us Follow Christ and Keep Moving Forward,” performed by the Capuchin Brothers, accompanied by Capuchin Novices and Dominican Brothers, inviting all to renew their discipleship and commitment to Christ.
Keynote Address: Hope as a Mission
The highlight of the day was the keynote address by Rev. Fr. Francis Sabir, OFM Cap, whose dynamic presentation deeply inspired the audience. Speaking on the spiritual and human importance of hope, he reflected on the challenges that today’s youth face in a rapidly changing and often discouraging world.
He encouraged participants to embrace their Christian identity with courage, to see themselves as instruments of peace and renewal, and to take concrete actions that radiate hope within their families, parishes, and society. “Hope,” he reminded them, “is not a feeling—it is a mission.”
Following the address, the Capuchin Brothers offered another moving hymn, “The Desire of My Heart Is to Love My Christ,” leading the participants into a moment of contemplation and thanksgiving.
Witness and Reflection
Representatives from both the Capuchin and Dominican communities, including Novice Nazaqat Liaqat, shared brief but powerful testimonies on how the message of the program had deepened their faith and strengthened their resolve to live with renewed hope and purpose. Their words expressed a collective desire to be true pilgrims of hope amid the trials of contemporary life.
Encouragement and Closing Reflections
In his presidential remarks, Rev. Fr. Pascal Paulus, OP, thanked the speakers, organizers, and participants for their vibrant participation. He commended the youth for their openness to God’s call and reminded them that every vocation—whether priestly, religious, or lay—is a journey of hope rooted in love for Christ and His Church.
A vote of thanks was then offered by Rev. Fr. Ejaz Bashir, Custos of the Mariam Sadiqqa Capuchin General Custody, Pakistan, who expressed gratitude to all contributors—guest speakers, musicians, volunteers, and the organizing committee—for their selfless collaboration in making the event a success.
The program concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving and a shared fraternal meal, offered by Rev. Fr. Pascal Paulus, OP, symbolizing the communion and joy of being one family in faith.
A Journey Forward in Faith and Hope
The event left a profound impact on participants, reminding them that Christian hope is not passive optimism, but a living virtue that calls each believer to be an active witness in a broken world.
As the young people departed, their hearts were renewed with the conviction that to be a “pilgrim of hope” is to walk daily with Christ—trusting, serving, and loving amidst the challenges of the present age.
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