to the filipino youth reflection essay

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Rizal - To The Filipino Youth

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Althea Hannah D . Deloso

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The Philippines: A Century hence was written by Jose Rizal and was published in La Solaridad, a newspaper run by Filipino Illustrados in Spain. This essay was made to supplement his works, especially his two famous works “Noli Me Tangere” and El Filibusterismo” as his works made confusion on what it wants to entail to its readers. Because the readers of his works interpreted it as a means to spread the message of revolution but he do not condone violence and all he wanted is reformation and assimilation to what he called “the mother country” Spain. His work was heavily influenced by the enlightenment ideology spreading in Europe during his time and by the book of Feodor Jagor. His essay talks about the past what was the Philippines like before and the present time (during his time) and used it as a basis to form a hypothesis on what will happen to the Philippines in the future, hence it is not a random prediction. And what he told was did really happen in the Philippines later. His essay contains the miseries Filipinos experienced during the three decades of the Spanish regime, the reasons why the Filipinos awakened their nationalism, how the Spaniards keep the Filipino indolent and submissive, why Spain could not stop the liberal ideologies emergence in the Philippines, how it can lead to revolution, how to prevent the revolution and it is through reformation, what will happen if the Philippines becomes separated to Spain like how can the country keep its liberty from other foreign invaders, and who among the foreign invaders will colonize the Philippines. He forecasted that after many a century, the Philippines will be in the hands of new foreign masters.

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"The Philippines, A Century Hence" by Jose Rizal is a seminal work that serves as a poignant reflection on the socio-political landscape of the Philippines during the late 19th century. Written in 1889, Rizal's essay is a prescient analysis that not only calls for internal reforms within the Spanish colonial system but remarkably predicts the eventual American intervention if Spain fails to address the grievances of its Filipino subjects. This literary masterpiece provides a profound glimpse into Rizal's visionary thinking and offers valuable insights into the historical trajectory of the Philippines as it navigates the challenges of colonization and the quest for national identity.

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Rethink how Rizal almost begged for reforms within the Spanish colonial setup through this paper and predicted correctly that the Americans would invade the country if Spain refuses to institute reform. Upon perusing Rizal's "The Philippines A Century Hence" via firsthand experience, I am impressed by the insightful and insightful conclusions he made regarding the future of his native land. Written more than a century ago, Rizal's insight is remarkably precise and thought-provoking.

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BSTrM 3-1N Rizal's The Philippines a Century Hence "Filipinas dentro de Cien Anos," this essay was originally published in Madrid's Filipino fortnightly newspaper "La Solidaridad," from September 1889 to January. Jose Rizal write The Philippines a Century hence as four parts (1889-1890) in the La Solidaridad, it is a socio-political essay wherein he forecasts the country's future for the next

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Rethink how Rizal almost begged for reforms within the Spanish colonial setup through this paper and predicted correctly that the Americans would invade the country if Spain refuses to institute reform. (The Philippine a Century Hence by Dr. Jose Rizal)

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A paper on how Rizal almost begged for reforms within the Spanish colonial setup through "The Philippines a Century Hence" and predicted correctly that the Americans would invade the country if Spain refuses to institute reform.

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Filipino Youth - Ideal and Ordeal

The poem “To the Filipino Youth” by Dr. Jose Rizal is a message primarily to tell the importance of the youth and their capability to shape the future of our Motherland. Dr. Jose Rizal also expresses his optimism despite the turmoil our country was in during his time.

In the poem, Rizal praised the rising generation. This poem can be considered as Rizal’s first testimony and presentation of his nationalism. In this literary piece, he clearly referred to the Philippines as his home/motherland, where Rizal thought of the youth as they key to nation-building.

Dr. Jose Rizal composed the poem “To the Filipino Youth,” dedicating to the youth of the Philippines. He wanted the Filipino youth to use their capabilities, talents and skills to stand out not only for their own praise and success but also for the praise and success of their own motherland, the Philippines. Dr. Jose Rizal wanted the Filipino youth to build up their abilities and use them to help those who are in need. Also, Dr. Jose Rizal challenged the youth through this poem to refine and nurture their talents in the arts, to invigorate and reinforce their knowledge of the sciences, and to look forward and continue their chain of servitude.

Undoubtedly, just like the other poems of our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, the poem “To the Filipino Youth” is a masterpiece worth reading and comprehending. In my opinion, it as a “real poem”, as it is something that beautifully incorporated the essential elements of poetry. While I was examining its every line, I was really captured and amazed with the manner of writing, the message it tries to stress and insist, and of course the sincerity and genuineness of what he wishes to convey. These things made me feel more eager and interested to continue reading Jose Rizal’s works.

On the other hand, the message this poem tries to convey, “To the Filipino Youth” is holding a very strong one; strong enough to persuade/induce those who are to be persuaded/induced, the Filipino youth. As one of those individuals, I could really feel the nationalistic courage within me glow brighter the moment I finished reading the poem. It was telling me that I am one of the existing hopes of our country and that through my skills, abilities, expertise and knowledge, I am capable of protecting its freedom against oppressive forces that may try to oppress its land and its people. Moreover, it was telling me that I, along with my fellow youth, am responsible for preserving the Philippines as a nation for me and the rest of the Filipinos, and not for the foreigners.

Lastly, based on what I felt when I was reading the poem and the emotions that were expressed on each of the poem’s line, as to the sincerity of the poem, I considered “To the Filipino Youth” as indeed a work from the heart with no pretension, no conceit, and no facade. You can really feel the hope that Dr. Jose Rizal saw in the youth of his time, and hopefully, of the future generation as well.

What changed?

According to some, the youth are the back bone of their nation. They can change the future of the society with their will and vigor. Unfortunately, today we find the youth more interested in material things, immoral acts, and harmful ways. They choose to spend their days doing drugs and alcohols, playing video games, spending their nights partying, and worst of all, involving their young playful mind into a thing called “premarital sex”, leading to the appearances of unwed teenage moms.

Some instances of this age group are sitting at home in front of their televisions/computers playing games all day instead of contributing proactively to the betterment of the society. They have no vision and if they do they do not have the drive to make any attempt nor intent of having them achieved.

I must admit, the youth of today are out of control, they follow the wrong path/crowd just for their pleasure, leisure and vanity. What is worse with the situation is that the youth who are the most out of control are those living in poverty, some rob and kill people, some stray in the path of drugs and liquors and some even having children of their own at a very young age.

How are we to live up to what Dr. Jose Rizal dreamed of us to become? How are we to become the pillars of this nation? Is there no hope left for our Motherland and her children?

We, the youth, with regards to the problems that we have today, should be guided accordingly by those who have acquired wisdom- our parents, teachers and elderly, with meaningful activities and conversations that will make us realize the essence of our existence , what is right or wrong, and what is good or bad for our nation. We must motivate ourselves; we must share with everyone the significance of responsibility and the purpose of goal-setting. If we refuse to have everything fixed as soon as possible, we will find ourselves supporting an entire generation of empty citizens who live in promiscuity, corruption, and violence.

We must all prove our critics wrong. We can exhibit our intelligence, abilities and skills, by working hard to achieve them. We have to show them what we are made of for in every journey, there will always be a challenge. But if we open our minds, we can learn from these challenges and make ourselves better citizens of this country. As what Dr. Jose Rizal advocates for, we must value our education. It is only through learning that we can become the youth our national hero hopes us to be.

We can change.

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To the Philippine Youth

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To the Philippine Youth

At 18, Rizal won first prize for his poem “To the Philippine Youth” in 1879 in a poetry contest organized by the Manila Lyceum of Art and Literature

At eighteen years of age, Rizal won first prize for his poem “To the Philippine Youth” in 1879 in a poetry contest organized for Filipino poets by the Manila Lyceum of Art and Literature. This poem is one of his most famous poems. 

Hold high the brow serene, O youth, where now you stand; Let the bright sheen Of your grace be seen, Fair hope of my fatherland!

Come now, thou genius grand, And bring down inspiration; With thy mighty hand, Swifter than the wind’s violation, Raise the eager mind to higher station.

Come down with pleasing light Of art and science to the fight, O youth, and there untie The chains that heavy lie, Your spirit free to blight. See how in flaming zone Amid the shadows thrown, The Spaniard’a holy hand A crown’s resplendent band Proffers to this Indian land.

Thou, who now wouldst rise On wings of rich emprise, Seeking from Olympian skies Songs of sweetest strain, Softer than ambrosial rain; Thou, whose voice divine Rivals Philomel’s refrain And with varied line Through the night benign Frees mortality from pain;

Thou, who by sharp strife Wakest thy mind to life ; And the memory bright Of thy genius’ light Makest immortal in its strength ;

And thou, in accents clear Of Phoebus, to Apelles dear ; Or by the brush’s magic art Takest from nature’s store a part, To fig it on the simple canvas’ length ;

Go forth, and then the sacred fire Of thy genius to the laurel may aspire ; To spread around the fame, And in victory acclaim, Through wider spheres the human name.

Day, O happy day, Fair Filipinas, for thy land! So bless the Power to-day That places in thy way This favor and this fortune grand!

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A La Juventud Filipina by Jose Rizal, at age 18 (“To the Filipino Youth”)

Tap the “play arrow” (if on mobile device, click “listen in browser”) on the soundcloud pod below) for a la juventud, a la juventud filipina, by jose rizal, at age 18, (“to the filipino youth”) .

(photo from textbooks)

Alza su tersa frente, rise up, hold your head high juventud filipina, en este dia filipino youth, this moment on this day luce resplandeciente tu rica gallardia, rich and resplendent like the sky bella esperanza de la patria mia heavenly hope of the motherland today (translation mine with profound apologies, sorry po), (here is the popularly accepted translation which you might like better) by nick joaquin, unfold, oh timid flower , lift up your radiant brow, this day, youth of my native strand your abounding talents show resplendently and grand, fair hope of my motherland ,                      ♥  ♥  ♥, alza su tersa frente, juventud filipina, en este dia luce resplandeciente tu rica gallardia, bella esperanza de la patria mia, vuela, genio grandioso, fly, great genius y les infunde noble pensamiento, and infuses noble thought que lance vigoroso, what a powerful bid mas rapido que el viento, faster than the wind su mente virgen al glorioso asiento. his virgin mind to the glorious seat., baja con la luz grata de las artes y ciencias a la arena, juventud, y desata la pesada cadena que tu genio poetico encadena., ve que en la ardiente zona do moraron las sombras, el hispano esplendente corona, con pia sabia mano, ofrece al hijo de este suelo indiano., tu, que buscando subes, en alas de tu rica fantasia, del olimpo en las nubes tiernisima poesia mas sabrosa que nectar y ambrosia., tu, de celeste acento, melodioso rival filomena, que en variado concento en la noche serena disipas del mortal la amarga pena., tu que la pena dura animas al impulso de tu mente , y la memoria pura del genio refulgente eternizas con genio prepotente., y tu, que el vario encanto de febo, amado del divino apeles, y de natura el manto con magicos pinceles trasladar al sencillo lienzo sueles., corred que sacra llama del genio el lauro coronar espera, esparciendo la fama con trompa pregonera el nombre del mortal por la ancha espera., dia, dia felice, filipinas gentil, para tu suelo al potente bendice que con amante anhelo la ventura te envia y el consuelo., to the philippine youth english version, soar high, oh genius great, and with noble thoughts fill their mind; the honor’s glorious seat, may their virgin mind fly and find more rapidly than the wind., descend with the pleasing light of the arts and sciences to the plain, oh youth, and break forthright the links of the heavy chain that your poetic genius enchain., see that in the ardent zone, the spaniard, where shadows stand, doth offer a shining crown, with wise and merciful hand to the son of this indian land., you, who heavenward rise on wings of your rich fantasy, seek in the olympian skies the tenderest poesy, more sweet than divine honey;, you of heavenly harmony, on a calm unperturbed night, philomel’s match in melody, that in varied symphony dissipate man’s sorrow’s blight;, you at th’ impulse of your mind the hard rock animate and your mind with great pow’r consigned transformed into immortal state the pure mem’ry of genius great;, and you, who with magic brush on canvas plain capture the varied charm of phoebus, loved by the divine apelles, and the mantle of nature;, run for genius’ sacred flame awaits the artist’s crowning spreading far and wide the fame throughout the sphere proclaiming with trumpet the mortal’s name, oh, joyful, joyful day, the almighty blessed be who, with loving eagerness sends you luck and happiness, click any social media icon below to share, if the comment posted does not appear here, that's because comments with several hyperlinks are detained by akismet at the spam folder..

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To the Philippine Youth Interpretation Analysis

The poem To The Philippine Youth written by Jose Rizal was intended for the Filipino youth during the Spanish colonization. Rizal aimed to inspire them to remove the inferiority that was instilled by the Spaniards and to show their full potential. Rizal believed that the youth was the hope of the motherland, and through higher education and clarity, they could protect the country from tyranny. The poem was written explicitly for the youths of his time, exhibiting their hidden potential to inspire not only Filipinos but also the world. Rizal was proud of being a Filipino and encouraged the youth to learn from the example set by the youths of his time. The poem is still relevant today, and the youth should exhibit their intelligence and potential to gain respect and desire for liberty.

In this message addressed to the Philippine Youth, Jose Rizal emphasizes his concern for those innocent Filipinos who received subpar education during the Spanish rule. Rizal’s aim is to inspire the youth to overcome the feelings of inferiority imposed upon them by their colonizers and “Lift up your radiant brow”. Presently, the potential of the Philippine Youth remains untapped, prompting Rizal to urge and even beg them to demonstrate their capabilities.

Highlighting the significance of the youth as the hope of our nation, this poem echoes the well-known Filipino saying “ang kabataan ang pagasa ng bayan.” The country requires hope to combat both oppressors and ignorance fostered by tyrants. Through attaining higher education and comprehending the state of the nation, young people can protect it from tyranny. Rizal’s pride in his Filipino identity is unmistakable within this poetic piece.

The poet declares his loyalty to his country by expressing “Fair hope of my Motherland” and “Youth of my native strand” in this poem. The poem aims to inspire the young individuals of that era to showcase their untapped potential and become a source of inspiration for both Filipinos and people worldwide. Recognizing one’s abilities not only earns respect from others but also fosters self-respect and a longing for freedom. With various technological advancements, such as the internet, there are no more valid excuses for ignorance.

The Filipino youths of our time should take inspiration from the youths of their time. Back then, communication was challenging and books were rarely read. However, they were able to display their willingness to fight for the country. Even though we are no longer oppressed by the Spaniards, the youth today must demonstrate their intelligence to gain respect. By showcasing their intellect, no one will dare to treat them as fools. Considering all these points, “To The Philippine Youth” can be dedicated to both the current and future youth of Rizal’s Philippines.

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"If we have shortcomings, we are not afraid to have them pointed out and criticized, because we serve the people. Anyone, no matter who, may point out our shortcomings. If he is right, we will correct them. If what he proposes will benefit the people, we will act upon it".

Monday, December 3, 2012

An interpretation to rizal’s poem entitled “to the filipino youth”.

8 comments:

NICE INTERPRETATION. VERY WELL SAID.

Such a nice summary of the poem,keep on summarizing Rizal's literary pieces.😊 Kudos!

such a touching and inspirational reaction for this..i can very clearly understand the point in there in poem and a very inspiring message to all of youth Today...

Good explanation of the poem. Very nice!

Such a beautiful summary. It also enlightened us the students and all those people whoread this mostly to Filipinos

Thank you very much it helps my assignment

Thank you very much for this wonderful reflection/summarization about Rizal's masterpiece, I really appreciate it and help me to understand well the poem. I have learned a lot from the poem and thanks to your summary It help me to enlightened my thoughts about the poem. Especially the words which is very unfamiliar to me. Kudos!

refenrence?

To the Filipino Youth― a Review, a Reflection

What Jose Rizal wants to entail in the poem To the Filipino Youth is what he wants us, youth, to become. I believe that when Rizal wrote the poem he was describing himself and what he wants to be and what he wants the Filipino youth to become as well. The poem depicts the current position of the Philippines and the youth of it especially the Filipino ones, in his time― where inequality and unjust practices of rights is rampant.

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An Open Letter of the Filipino Youth to the Catholic Church in the Philippines

To our beloved Cardinals, to our dear Archbishops and Bishops, to our Parish Priests, Youth Directors and Directresses, to the members of the Clergy, to our sisters and brothers in the Consecrated Life, to our Parents and Elders, to our fellow young Filipinos and Filipinas, to our sisters and brothers in Christ,

Introduction

This is our sentiment—we who gathered on 2018 May 31, Feast of Mary’s Visitation and Encounter with Elizabeth, in St. Paul University of Quezon City, upon the invitation of the Episcopal Commission on Youth (ECY) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). Youth leaders and youth ministers, clergy and consecrated women and men as well as lay people, through a 3-day process of reflecting and sharing—we drew up a roadmap for the celebration of the Year of the Youth (YOTY) in 2019, following the 2018 celebration of the Year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons and continuing the 9-year preparation for the 500th year of evangelization of the Philippines.

Like Mary, we are thankful for this privilege of putting ourselves in the shoes of the Filipino youth to prepare for the Year of the Youth. On behalf of our fellow Filipino youth, like the two disciples of Emmaus, we will tell Jesus, the Son of Mary, our situation, our concerns and our youthful dreams for the Church and for the society. With Jesus and His Mother Mary, who went in haste to help Elizabeth, we encourage our youthful peers to hasten and join in realizing the goals of the Year of the Youth.

The Goals of the Year of the Youth

Goal 1: Youth in Formation An evangelized youth conscious of his/ her giftedness, transformed by a personal encounter with Christ, and growing and maturing through youthful formation and activities.

Goal 2: Youth in the Community, Church and Society A family-oriented youth whose image of oneself is patterned after the life of Jesus, and who is actively involved in the life of the Church and society through his/ her vocation, profession and stage in life.

Goal 3: Youth in Mission A youth inspired by the church’s missionary spirit, who, like the Blessed Virgin Mary, courageously shares Christ’s message of joy and hope to people in difficult situations, rekindles the faith of those who drifted from the Church, and promotes dialogue with other faiths.

Goal 4: Youth Ministry and Youth Ministers A preferential ministry for the young animated by youth ministers who are filled with the spirit of the new evangelization and equipped with pastoral skills and resources, ably responding to youth issues.

The Year of the Youth Theme

Filipino Youth in Mission: Beloved, Gifted, Empowered

The Scripture Story to Inspire and Guide us for the Year of the Youth

The Appearance on the Road to Emmaus

Journey of Dialogue between the Filipino Youth and Jesus

Some of our Personal Traits

Filipino youth of the 21st century are life-given and want to be life-giving. We are dynamic individuals, overflowing with blessings, willing and open to learn and to grow when provided with opportunities to do so.

We are all searching for our identity—who we are. We search for our meaning and ultimately our purpose in life. We know that we are called for something more than ourselves.

We are called to act, but we still need to be guided and formed. We lack critical thinking and decision-making skills that usually make us hesitant to commit.

We do not see ourselves as “the future”, but as “the present” of the Church, the world, and of society. Hence, we are gifts, life-given to the Church and to the Philippines, and we want to be truly life-giving.

Our Spiritual Life

Many of us, young people of today, regard ourselves as more spiritual than religious. We acknowledge the presence of God; we believe in Him, and we yearn for Him. We choose to express this longing for a deeper relationship with our Lord and heighten our experience of faith through personal prayer and participation in various prayer gatherings. Our apparent distrust and doubt on the credibility of the Church, on the other hand, is but an expression of our burning desire to see her truly living the joy of the Gospel.

We long for a Church that embodies Christ’s vision and dream for her—a Church that: · has confidence in us[ii], and ensures that we are “not marginalized but feel accepted”[iii]; · declares and actualizes her preferential apostolate for us[iv]; and · “draws the attention of young people by being rooted in Jesus Christ”[v].

Our family is where we first experience love, care and belongingness. It is also where we have our first role models who guide and shape us as we are prepared to be launched into the bigger environment. Our Filipino culture that influences our family plays a major role in shaping us as young people. Practices and cultural behaviors, such as “utang na loob” and “pagmamano”, are still very much present in us, as well as the values of respect, obedience, and being family-oriented.

However, there are many different family situations present for each of us. Nowadays, due to the need for financial stability, some parents have to leave their children to seek greener pastures. Through these various situations, we still see the family as a foundational aspect of our lives. In our dreams for a better life, our families will always be part of our hopes and aspirations.

Our Social Relationships and Communities

We value our relationships as much as our families—at times even more. We want to belong, more than anything. Hence, we seek a community that empowers, encourages, and challenges us. Friends and our social relationships are very important as they are part of the environment that we live in. These people not only journey with us and encourage us, but also form and influence us.

Despite our being hyperconnected with the world, we still feel left out. We still sense that we do not belong. We also do not see enough opportunities to actively participate. Now, more than ever, we are ready to be trusted as partners in shaping our country and our Church.

Some Socio-cultural Concerns

Health We acknowledge the need to be healthy. However, in many places, young people do not receive enough nutrition and the needed medical attention. Depression and suicide are prevalent issues being discussed by the young and about the young. Substance abuse, other forms of addiction, and HIV/AIDS also gravely affect our fellow youth. We feel that there is an urgent need to address these concerns as these may involve us and affect the people around us.

Education We value our education together with our teachers and formators, who teach us majority of what we know, as we spend most of our time in school. Unfortunately, not all Filipino youth are given the opportunity for formal education. Some even end up on the streets or find themselves before high-risk situations such as child labor.

Environment We dream of a safe and sustainable world to live in. We value Mother Earth and all of God’s creation. We understand the importance of caring for our common home, but still need to realize that our seemingly small actions can either have a greatly positive or negative impact.

Economic Challenges Our national economy is said to be growing at its potential[vi]. However, majority of the Filipino youth do not feel this growth nor understand what it means and yet are very much affected by it. Many of us still experience difficulty in finding stable jobs to keep our future secure; others even fall victim to human trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Most want to make a living not just for ourselves, but more for our parents who have given much for us. We dream of a more inclusive economy that provides equal opportunities to people regardless of age and gender.

Politics Filipino youth comprise majority of the voters in the country. We seek honest and authentic leaders who stand for truth, justice and integrity. We need credible leaders we can count on and trust to lead and make moral decisions for the good of our country and its people. In the same way, we feel that we too can be leaders ourselves in various ways. Although there are opportunities to be the leaders we seek, we feel that these are limited, and at times even superficial.

Dialogue with Cultures We are heavily exposed to many kinds of differences: in cultures (e.g. indigenous peoples), faiths (e.g. other faith denominations), and ideologies (e.g. those rooted in same sex attraction). In all these, we heed Pope Francis’ invitation to build a “culture of encounter”. We seek to further understand them, and a concrete step is for us to have opportunities for dialogue to face these differences and move towards a more inclusive world.

Our Social Circles and the Digital Community

Unlike before, however, our peer groups today vary from physical groups to digital communities. Most of us live a part of our lives online as technology is already part of our daily life. We are a generation that is very much connected, yet still disconnected. Most of us who are frequently engaged online would rather express ourselves through “emojis” or posts on our social media accounts as these appear to be separate from our physical selves. Some of our behaviors now are also influenced by the number of followers we have online, or the number of “likes” that our posts have earned. These online friendships could even bring about different pressures—to be popular, to be “always-on”; these play an integral part in how we form and maintain our relationships both online and offline.

Youth Seeking Purpose/ Meaning in Life through Role Models

Filipino youth will always find meaning in the reality of the family. Dreams of prosperity emerge as we aspire to improve the plight of our families. However, aside from laboring for our parents and families, we also acknowledge our need to be devoted in discerning our vocation.

We feel at times that our purpose and meaning are imposed on us by those in positions of power and authority, whom we often sense as doubtful over the goals we set in life. We yearn for people in authority whom we can look up to as regards integrity and credibility, as well as look to for guidance and accompaniment.

Our hearts are open to see and embrace role models who give witness to the goodness of life while rooted in the family. We want our elders to journey with us, to be approachable and not untouchable, to level with us to a certain extent, to walk the talk, and to make us sense that we are all equal. We are persons capable of contributing in the way others do—with our own skills, knowledge and wisdom.

It is our ultimate hope that as we seek our purpose, we are given much life in order for us to share our lives with and for those around us. We wish to be given more opportunities to share ourselves: not just with and for our families, but with and for the rest of the community, our country, and the Church.

Journey of Listening of the Filipino Youth to Jesus

The two disciples not only conversed with Jesus on the road to Emmaus, but also listened to Him as He explained the Scriptures to them. In this roadmap for the Year of the Youth, Jesus, whom we know speaks in various ways, invites us to listen and find enlightenment, the way the two disciples did.

Through the Scriptures

Jesus declares to us, “As the Father loves me, so I also love you.” [Jn 15:9] Thus, He invites us to remain in His love by following His commandments. Only then will we experience joy that is complete [cf. Jn 15:9-11].

Indeed, Jesus looks at us and loves us. He gives us a challenging proposal: “Go, sell what you have, and give to [the] poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” [Mk 10:21] Following Jesus entails letting go of our possessions for us to give ourselves fully to Him and attain fullness of life.

And Jesus tells us: “Rise, and do not be afraid.” [Mt 17:7b] “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.” [Mk 16:15] “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” [Mt 28:20] Jesus sends us to be His missionary disciples, and promises to be with us.

Through the Church

Jesus expresses His love and affection for us through the Church—a love that is incarnate, preferential and unconditional[ix]. Through the Church, His Body, He is always concerned with us, with all our expectations and hopes[x], and He reminds us not to be afraid “especially when we are faced with the fundamental choices on which depend who we will be and what we will do in this world”[xi].

Through Mary’s Example

At our young age, our challenges and calling may strongly disturb and overwhelm us, just like Mary [cf. Lk 1:29]. Time and again, we are reminded not to be afraid, for we have found favor with God [cf. Lk 1:30]! May her inspiration allow us to respond with a courageous and committed YES, proclaiming with her: “I am the servant of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” [cf. Lk 1:38].

As with the two disciples, may these words from Jesus open our eyes to recognize Him [cf. Lk 24:31], and make our hearts burn with joy to share the good news to our fellow Filipino youth [cf. Lk 24:32-33].

Journey back to Jerusalem, Journey of Witnessing to Jesus by the Filipino Youth

Indeed, like the two disciples, we now are filled with excitement to witness to Jesus who listens to our story, speaks to us words of encouragement, and challenges us. We respond to Jesus and witness to Him in the Year of the Youth through the strategic pastoral plan that the Episcopal Commission on Youth proposes at the national and diocesan levels.

Pastoral Plan for the 2019 Year of the Youth

1. Pre-YOTY Programs and Activities (2018 August-October) · Creation of the YOTY Logo Presentation of proposed logos during the NCYM2018. · Composition of the YOTY Theme Song Through a contest; submission will be done during the NCYM2018. · Identification of YOTY Patron Saints · Formulation of the YOTY Prayer · National Conference of Youth Ministers and National Youth Coordinating Council 2018 Presentation of 2019 YOTY: Concept Paper, pastoral plans (e.g. “Mission L3”, among others), etc. · Writing of the CBCP Pastoral Letter on the YOTY Target launch date: 2018 October 22, memorial of St. John Paul II.

2. YOTY Programs and Activities

December 02 1st Sunday of Advent; beginning of a new liturgical year (at the diocesan level) Launching of the YOTY Information Campaign: YOTY online page and other YOTY social media accounts Within the Advent Season (at the parish level) Family Advent Recollection

December 16 National Youth Day 2018 (at the local levels) Celebration of the NYD2018 Simultaneous ringing of the bells at 6:00 PM, invoking Mary, Star of the New Evangelization (at the national level) Soft launching of the YOTY App National Turnover from 2018 Year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons to 2019 Year of the Youth (Icon to be identified)

January Starting this month until May: Intensified promotion and running of KABATAANG BAYANI

January 15 Silver Jubilee of the WYD1995 and 4th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ 2015 Visit Start of the nationwide pilgrimage of the National Youth Cross and the Relic of St. John Paul II Launching of YOTY App and its promotion

January 31 Memorial of St. John Bosco Release of Proposed Guidebook for Mass with Young People

February Starting this month onwards Intensified promotion and running of Unang Hakbang, particularly for the Diocesan Youth Directors, Coordinators and Leaders and for members of national councils of FNYO-member organizations

March Between March 06 and April 13 (at the regional levels) YOTY Retreat for Youth Ministers

April 14-21 Holy Week 2019

April 23-28 National celebration of National Youth Day 2019, Archdiocese of Cebu Soft Launch of 3-Year Formation Program: The Road to 500 Years of Christianity

May Whole month: Youth mobilization in parish-led election activities

May 12 (at the diocesan and parish levels) “A Candle for H.O.P.E.”

June Whole month: Youth mobilization in pre-school year initiatives (Brigada Eskwela, summer classes, etc.) Enrollment and start of classes

July (at the diocesan level) Dialogue between parish youth ministries and campus ministries

August 02-04 Workshop on Incorporating Youth Ministry in Seminary Formation

September Whole month: Youth Ministers’ Exchange Program, Year 1

October 19 End of the nationwide pilgrimage of the National Youth Cross and the Relic of St. John Paul II

November 22 (at the national level) Philippine Catholic Youth Ministry Awards and Closing of the YOTY Information Campaign: “500 Faces of Christianity” Compilation of Best Practices “Mission L3” Best Implementer

December 01 (at the diocesan level) Closing of the YOTY

3. Other Programs and Activities during and beyond the YOTY · Youth ministry offices (apostolates/ commissions/ organizations) will be encouraged to develop and maintain websites and other forms of presence in social media · Research on understanding the different youth generations · National Filipino Catholic Youth Study (NFCYS) 2019

The Year of the Youth is indeed a journey of encounter with Jesus, accompanied by Mary, the Star of the New Evangelization. In this journey, we tell the story of the Filipino youth with our Risen Lord; we, young Filipinos and Filipinas, listen to Jesus, the Youth Minister par excellence and, as we are blessed and gifted during this journey, we are empowered to witness to and share our faith.

We implore the Holy Spirit to guide us in realizing this pastoral project for us Filipino youth, a large and dynamic portion of the population of the Philippines[xvi], “known as a ‘pueblo amante de Maria’”[xvii]. We entrust the 2019 Year of the Youth to Mary, our Blessed Mother, as we commit ourselves to pray meaningfully every day the Angelus, and personally a “Hail Mary”.

Hail Mary, full of grace! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women And blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.

From the Filipino youth 2019 onwards

——-

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