We live in a privileged moment in the history of the universal Church; this is the time of the New Evangelization — a comprehensive plan for the preaching of the Gospel and the renewal of human civilization. Pope Benedict XVI urgently invites every human person to share in this work by answering the question posed by Jesus to the Apostles on the road to Caesarea Philippi, "Who do you say that I am?" (Matthew 16:15). This is the fundamental question of every human life, and one which results in the happiness for which God created us, becoming who He calls us to be, as we say with St. Peter: "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God" (Matthew 16:16).
For many of us there are pivotal moments which spark the flame of faith. These might be conversations with a companion on the journey (Luke 24:13-24), they might be occasions when Sacramental encounters touch the depth of who we are and give us a sense of identity (Mark 1: 4 - 11), they might be our presence at an engagement, celebration, spiritual gathering which touches us, because not only are we there, but so too is God’s spirit. (Matthew 14:15-21.)
Ten years ago, the days of July 23-28, 2002 were such pivotal moments for thousands of young people who came to see an ailing Pope who sparked youthfulness of spirit in spite of an aged physical frame. During these blessed days of World Youth Day in Toronto, the flame of faith which truly permitted Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16) to not be a scriptural focus but a lived reality as companions in faith journeyed, Sacramental encounters occurred, and a spiritual gathering happened that touched so many - and continues to do so.
Not only are World Youth Days a lived legacy of Blessed John Paul II, a successor of Peter whose heroic witness and ardent example have impacted our faith for generations to come, but so too is a ministry which came from these days - Salt and Light Television. This Catholic media outlet is a beacon of the New Evangelization. This multi media ministry was begun in 2003 by young people who wanted to ask the important questions of life and faith, about a present and a future full of hope. Led by Father Thomas Roscia, and daily sparked by the energy of young adults who are daily living the call of the New Evangelization, Salt and Light Television continues to be a instrument of God’s grace, God’s love and God’s hope for all who come into contact with it.
One of these young adults who ministers there is a friend of mine who recently wrote of his experience at World Youth Day. I am pleased to link his story. I am pleased also to link my prayers to those of so many who continue to ask the Lord daily to allow the taste and spark of faith begun in those days of July in Toronto ten years ago, to never loose flavour or flame as we enter some of the most exciting and powerful days in the life of our Church. May Our Lady of the Visitation continue to be our inspiration, model and guide.