This year, St. Ignatius Church celebrates the 25th Anniversary of the Dedication of the Present Church. To commemorate this special event, the youth sector organized an activity entitled, Ignatian Youth Day with the theme “Let us build the Church.” The said gathering took place on July 28, 2024, and was participated mainly by Japanese, English-speaking, Indonesian, and Vietnamese youth groups. The activity commenced with an Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in which everyone was invited to reflect on five images of the church: as Family, as Mother, as Refuge, as Saving Ship, and as the Body of Christ. In between, the St. Ignatius International Youth Ministry (SIIYM) sang Taize songs, putting everyone in a solemn mood. In the end, the participants concretized the fruit of their prayer and reflections by sticking notes as to what for them is the meaning of “church”, the significance of the parish in their lives, and St. Ignatius of Loyola. They prayerfully offered lighted candles to a miniature “St. Ignatius Church,” which left an impact in the hearts of all.

The continuation of the encounter happened during dinner time when everyone enjoyed finger foods and drinks. The Core group prepared some games to animate the participants and see how much they knew St. Ignatius and the history of the church. But what was most meaningful was the time spent to know each other. The gathering became a beautiful venue to strengthen camaraderie and friendship as there was ample time to mingle with one another and listen to their life and faith stories.

Participating in the Ignatian Youth Day allowed me to witness the beauty of intercultural interaction among the youth, that despite one’s differences in language, race, and culture, young people can unite themselves and share their gifts with the church. I was also reminded of the words of Pope Francis to the young people in Lisbon, “He knows the heart of each one of you, He knows the life of each one of you. He knows your joys, He knows your sorrows, your successes, and your failures. 'Do not be afraid. Take heart, do not be afraid."

Indeed, being with the young people in this gathering gave me a heartwarming feeling, an experience of inner joy and thanksgiving. I thank the Lord for allowing me to participate for the first time in Youth Ministry in Tokyo and hopefully, have more chances in the future to support and accompany young people in their faith journey.

By Sr. Mary Mae Santorce, F.I.