Thousands listen in raptures of joy as they are urged to 'look to the future with confidence'
His Holiness Pope Francis urged all young people to "keep the fire of love burning" in darkness, in a message to encourage the youth in their times of difficulties, during a Holy Mass at the 109-year-old Assumption Cathedral in Bang Rak on Nov 22 evening.
"I urge you to maintain your joy and to look to the future with confidence," he said. "Rooted in Christ, view all things with the joy and confidence born of knowing that the Lord has sought us out, found us and loved us infinitely. Friendship cultivated with Jesus is the oil needed to light up you path in life and the path of all those around you: your friends and neighbours, your companions at school and work, including those who think completely unlike yourselves."
Referring to the parable of 10 young women who are excited to join the Lord's banquet, but some grew weary and arrived late, Pope Francis said it can happen to any Christian.
"In the face of problems and obstacles like the suffering of our loved ones, or our own helplessness before apparently hopeless situations, unbelief and bitterness can take over and silently seep into our dreams, making our hearts grow cold," he said.
Pope Francis urged desperate youths to have faith in their families and teachers who suffered, but learnt that "the secret to a happy heart is the security we find when we are anchored, rooted in Jesus."
Most importantly, the 83-year-old pontiff emboldened them to maintain their faith in God because he is always there.
The event was attended by about 7,000 students from Catholic schools. While Pope Francis was moving around in his popemobile, he stopped to hug small children regularly, encouraging the sea of devout youths to cheer and wave flags in excitement.
Sarita Mekhanthong, a 22-year-old student at Srinakharinwirot University, said she was following in the footsteps of her grandmother who met Pope John Paul II at the National Stadium 35 years ago.
"I am happy to meet Pope Francis because he is the most down-to-earth person. His simplicity is an ideal example to all of us. Since he became Pope, he has introduced many changes to the Church's structure. He doesn't live in a luxurious residence. Besides, he washed the feet of prisoners and non-Christians in the rite. His open-mindedness wins my heart," she said.
Before the Holy Mass at the cathedral, Pope Francis visited Chulalongkorn University to meet leaders of the Christian community and other religions in Thailand.
Source: Bangkok Post
