IMCS Pax Romana, in collaboration with ICMICA and the IYTC-Pax Romana Laudato Si’ Centre, convened a high-level consultation on youth engagement in the post-synodal journey. Hosted in partnership with the General Secretariat of the Synod, this timely event gathered over 30 leaders, youth representatives, synodal delegates, and religious members to reflect on youth’s role in shaping a synodal Church leading up to the 2028 Ecclesial Assembly. Ana Maria Bidegain (President, ICMICA) opened the session by calling for deeper inclusion of youth and lay voices.

Sr. Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ (Under Secretary, Synod of Bishops), delivered the keynote, highlighting synodality as “a way of being Church.” She emphasized this is not just a phase, but a movement of spiritual and structural renewal rooted in our baptismal dignity. Her message: “Youth are essential catalysts of synodal transformation at every level.”

Fr. Franco Galdino (Youth Office, Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life) followed with a powerful pastoral message:

“Young people are not just recipients of care – they are protagonists of mission. They see what others may miss. They remind us to meet the world where it is, with faith, courage, and companionship.” He stressed the importance of accompanying youth within their real cultural and digital realities, challenging the Church to listen and act.

Key Takeaways & Next Steps

🔹 Youth Are Central – The consultation affirmed that young people are not at the margins, but at the very core of the Synod’s implementation.

🔹 Towards WYD 2027 – World Youth Day in Seoul will be a vital moment for global synodal participation and youth-led evangelization.

🔹 Local-Global Synodal Links – Strengthen bridges between youth movements and diocesan synodal teams.

🔹 Voice in 2028 Assembly – Contribute stories and reflections from youth into the working documents of the Ecclesial Assembly. A summary will be submitted to the General Secretariat of the Synod and the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life.