Young People in South Africa Urged to Stand Up for Jesus, Justice, Peace on Youth Day

Bishop Holiday explains that the day is marked in the context of 16 June 1976 “when the youth of South Africa stood up and shed their blood for the truth that apartheid must end.”

He calls for celebration of the youth who stood as witnesses against injustice in South Africa, and adds, “I call on the youth of the Diocese to continue to Proclaim the Gospel of Jesus and Witness to him in standing for justice and peace.”

“It takes courage to stand up and be active Catholics but this is what Jesus is asking of you,” the Local Ordinary of Kroonstad says, and adds, “This is what Pope Francis is asking of you.”

The Bishop observes that just like last year’s celebrations, the 2021 Youth Day will be celebrated on a smaller scale owing to the COVID-19 devastation.

He urges young people to adhere to safety measures of social distancing, wearing face masks and sanitizing to attend various Church and national Youth Day celebrations despite what has been termed as the country’s COVID-19 third wave.

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“This special day cannot pass in acknowledging the beautiful young people of our country and in a special way the wonderful youth of the Diocese of Kroonstad,” the 69-year-old Catholic Church leader says in his June 14 letter.

He explains, “The Chaplain of the Youth of the Diocese has planned a few activities for the youth to celebrate youth day. I hope that they can take place ever aware of the restrictions and protocols in place due to COVID-19. I call on you to be responsible youths, to wash hands, sanitize, wear a mask and keep social distance in accord with the laws of our country at this very disturbing time in our world.”

The Bishop beseeches the young people not to give up in the face of the challenges that have been presented by the pandemic.

He says, “In the heart of the third wave pandemic when education and other activities are affected we must never lose hope. God has not forgotten us.”

“Jesus’ promise is still true, ‘l am always with you till the end of time.’ Young people let us stand together and pray together for God's healing for our world and country,” Bishop Holiday says in his message, and adds, “l wish you the Young People of the Diocese of Kroonstad Happy Youth Day.”