Young Catholics Bridge Divides at 'Be Happy Youth Festival'
A unique event brought together over 200 young Catholics from Arabic and Hebrew-speaking communities in Israel. The 'Be Happy Youth Festival', held on October 18, 2025, at Deir Rafat monastery, aimed to break down emotional barriers and foster unity among participants.
Organised by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the James Vicariate, the festival followed the Israel-Hamas war and Hamas attacks on southern Israeli communities. Despite cultural and societal differences, the event aimed to help youth 'stand together in hope'.
Father Benedetto di Bitonto noted that these differences often create emotional 'walls' between the groups. However, the festival's atmosphere proved unexpectedly welcoming, with participants finding unity despite initial reservations. Activities like friendship bracelet making and reflecting on a letter from a fictional pilgrim encouraged bonding.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa emphasised the centrality of unity in the church's vocation, especially in challenging times. He highlighted Jesus Christ as the common bond uniting the participants.
The 'Be Happy Youth Festival' successfully brought together young Catholics from Arabic and Hebrew-speaking communities in Israel. Despite initial reservations, participants found unity and hope, proving that cultural differences need not divide, but can instead bring people together.
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