Saint John Paul II: Engaging Youth with Authentic Leadership
Saint John Paul II (1920–2005) teaches Catholic leaders to reach youth and young adults with authenticity, boldness, and personal engagement.
He initiated World Youth Day in 1985, drawing millions to encounter Christ through vibrant liturgies and direct dialogue. His 1993 Denver address challenged youth to reject relativism and embrace truth, showing leaders to speak courageously yet lovingly. John Paul II’s warmth, humor, and willingness to meet young people in their spaces—like concerts or stadiums—built trust and relatability. His Theology of the Body addressed their questions on love and sexuality with depth, encouraging holistic formation.
Leadership Lessons for Catholic Leaders
Leaders learn to engage youth with genuine presence, bold proclamation of faith, and by creating spaces for encounter, empowering them to live as missionary disciples.
Reflection Questions & Personal Application
Why is an approach that engages youth and young adults so important in your parish? What are new and creative ways using social media can your parish explore and implement?
