DNJ 2023 promoted by the Nossa Senhora do Pilar Parish, in Ouro Preto, is celebrated with the presence of university students – Archdiocese of Mariana

Motivated by the theme “Fraternity and Hunger” and by the motto “And everyone was satisfied” (Mt 14:13), young people from ecclesiastical and university movements celebrated National Youth Day (DNJ) 2023 at the Basilica of Nossa Senhora do Pilar, in Ouro Preto (MG).

Welcomed and encouraged by the Parish Priest, Father Adilson Umbelino Couto, and the Vicar, Father Wesley Pires, the young people were able to celebrate the victories, achievements and struggles of each day around the table of the Word and the Eucharist and extended the celebration with a celebration prepared by the young people themselves.

“Being with young people is a joy that cannot be explained. Since arriving here, I have tried to be with them, at meetings of the Encontro de Jovens com Cristo (EJC), visiting the republics, celebrating at the Federal University of Ouro Preto (Ufop). In times of synodality, the Church must listen to those who have ever new dreams and projects, namely young people. Knowing that the Church is alive, the Church is Young, Jesus launches a challenge to all young people: to love God above all things and your neighbor as yourself”, highlighted Father Wesley.

For the young man from EJC, Allan Menengussi Ferraz, participating in the DNJ organized by Paróquia Nossa Senhora do Pilar was a wonderful experience. “It was very special to see together the different groups of which I am part: EJC, Pastoral Universitária and the student republics, among other movements”, said the resident of República Nau Sem Rumo.

“The celebration was a time for us to gather around the altar to place our prayers and anxieties and to renew our strength in Christ. It is gratifying to see that I have so many other young people by my side who share the same faith as mine and to realize that we can build a future of hope in our parish”, highlighted Allan.

Text and photo: Communication Ministry of the Nossa Senhora do Pilar Parish, in Ouro Preto (MG)