Empowering young people for mission

Abstract

This study explores how the missionary spirit, in particular the one embraced by the Missionary Society of St. Paul (MSSP), can be lived by young people aged 16 - 28. Chapter one discusses the meaning and nature of mission with special reference to Church documents and to the MSSP charism. The roots of this charism are the mission spirituality of the founder, Mgr. Joseph De Piro, and that of St. Paul. Chapter two explores the world of youths, their human development, potentials, spirituality, and their place in the mission of Christ, with special reference to John Paul's messages to young people. In the light of these two chapters, the third chapter includes a proposal of an itinerary for a youth missionary group based on the key characteristics of the MSSP mission spirituality. This study will hopefully help mission groups, particularly MSSP mission animation centres and their leaders, to deepen their missionary commitment and empower young people for mission.