During his homily at the inaugural Mass for the synod on “Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment,” Pope Francis invited bishops to remember when they were young, in order to help them better understand the youth's situation in present times.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, reflected on when he discerned his vocation as a young person. For him, the people who helped and accompanied him the most were those outside his family.
CARD. VINCENT NICHOLS
Archbishop of Westminster
“People in that wider circle. People of whom I could speak to very attentively because I was very unsure and was quite shy. Really I just wanted to be left alone, didn't want to have this struggle inside of me; but probably a very typical story.”
In his conversation with various young people, Cardinal Nichols has found how the family is still important for them. He also recognizes how technology can play an important role for the youth these days in communication and exploring the world. However, at the same time, notes the dangers they are exposed to through the media world.
CARD. VINCENT NICHOLS
Archbishop of Westminster
“The family for many of them still provides the basic framework and the pathway and the place where they learn.” “They feel vulnerable to what is being said to them and about them.” “In a media world in which they have no control over whatsoever.”
One important thing Cardinal Nichols has recognized, in his participation in the Synod of Bishops, is the great sense of realism guiding it. He also notes how the abuse crisis has stopped any way of idealizing the present situation in the Church.
CARD. VINCENT NICHOLS
Archbishop of Westminster
“This synod is certainly not operating in a bubble.”“That has crashed into any temptation to live in a kind of idealized world.” “Realistic assessment and realistic appreciation of the world. Pope Francis often says 'the reality is more important than the ideas,' and I hope the synod walks down that track.”
Pope Francis has called for a synod to listen and discuss the youth participation in the Church and what more can be done to help them. It is the first synod to include young people in the meeting with bishops. It will be conducted through all of October.
