By LiCAS News
SEOUL — The Archdiocese of Seoul has mobilized parishes as frontline hosts for World Youth Day Seoul 2027, placing local communities at the center of preparations for the international youth gathering.
The move shifts preparation from a centralized effort to a parish-based mission, with communities tasked to host pilgrims, coordinate logistics, and lead participation across the local Church.
At a Mass on April 19 at Myeongdong Cathedral, the Local Organizing Committee formally launched parish organizing committees, marking the start of parish coordination for WYD 2027.
Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung presided over the liturgy, which drew about 1,000 participants, including clergy, lay leaders, and youth representatives from across the archdiocese.
Parishes are expected to play a central role in welcoming pilgrims, particularly through homestay programs and the use of parish and school facilities. As the first point of contact for visitors, parish communities will lead local preparations and extend hospitality during the event.
The archdiocese said the initiative also seeks to renew parish life and deepen awareness that WYD is a shared responsibility, calling for both spiritual and financial participation from clergy and lay faithful.
In his homily, Chung underscored the purpose of the gathering, saying, “WYD Seoul 2027 is not simply an event or a mega-event. It must become a time of grace in which God is encountered in the young people of the world.”
Reflecting on the Gospel account of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, he said the Church is called to accompany young people in their fears and difficulties so they may encounter the Risen Lord and be renewed in faith.
The prelate urged broad participation across parish communities, adding: “Some will take part through prayer, others through support, others through service, and still others by opening their homes. When each of us responds with courage, all of us can become true protagonists of the journey toward WYD Seoul 2027.”
During the Mass, representatives of parish pastoral councils and youth groups publicly pledged their commitment to support preparations. Organizers also presented appointment certificates, badges, and parish manuals to establish the new structure.
Chung blessed nearly 300 wooden sculptures bearing the WYD Seoul 2027 logo, each designated for a parish. The archdiocese said the installations serve as visible signs of prayer, unity, and shared mission, extending awareness of WYD beyond church communities into wider society.
Before the conclusion of the celebration, Chung identified three key areas for participation: financial support, prayer, and homestay. He thanked priests for their voluntary contributions and urged the faithful to support fundraising efforts, take part in the One Billion Rosaries Prayer Campaign, and open their homes to pilgrims.
The launch formally begins parish-based preparations across Seoul, with communities expected to take the lead in hosting and accompanying pilgrims ahead of 2027.
