Gulu: Thousands of young Catholics from across Uganda have gathered in Gulu for the 2025 National Catholic Youth Conference, an event Church leaders describe as a moment of spiritual renewal, unity, and responsibility.
The conference, which began on December 9 and concludes on December 14, is being hosted in the Archdiocese of Gulu. Young people from all Catholic dioceses of the country are taking part in prayer, teaching sessions, cultural activities, and discussions on faith and daily life.
Speaking at the opening of the conference, Archbishop Raphael p’Mony Wokorach of Gulu called the gathering a Pentecost of unity. He urged young people to deepen their communion with Christ and allow their faith to guide their choices and actions. He reminded participants that unity in the Church begins with a personal relationship with Jesus and grows through love, service, and mutual respect.
The theme of the conference, drawn from the Gospel of John, invites young people to see themselves as witnesses of Christ in today’s world. Church leaders say the message is especially important at a time when many youths face social pressures, economic challenges, and confusion about values.
Beyond spiritual formation, the conference also addresses practical concerns. Sessions focus on responsible citizenship, peace building, care for creation, and the use of talents and skills for personal growth and service to society. Youths are encouraged to be active and thoughtful participants in national life, especially as the country prepares for upcoming elections.
Organizers from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Uganda say the annual youth conference aims to strengthen faith while helping young people connect the Gospel with real life. They note that bringing youths together from different regions helps build national unity and a shared sense of mission within the Church.
As the conference continues, participants are expected to return to their dioceses with a renewed commitment to live their faith openly, serve their communities, and act as witnesses of hope in their families, schools, and workplaces.