The General Secretariat in Galilee – Youth Ministry Office has concluded the first phase of its 2026 summer program, following a series of pastoral and community initiatives that brought together young people and families from parishes across the Galilee. Designed to strengthen young people's connection to the Church, the program combined spiritual formation, fellowship, and joyful celebration.
The summer activities began with the Youth Ministry's participation in the Church's celebration of newly ordained priests. Representatives attended the first Mass of Fr. Jeries Abu Khalil in the Jifna area and extended their congratulations on his priestly ordination. They also met with the newly ordained Fr. Malek Azmi Qalanzeh and Fr. Fadi Mounther Kandah, offering prayers for fruitful ministries and asking the Lord to grant them wisdom and grace as they begin their service to the People of God.
As the summer break got underway, the Youth Ministry organized an evening under the title "Faith on Fire" that gathered young people from different towns and parishes in an atmosphere of fellowship. The event featured karaoke-style worship, icebreakers, creating a welcoming space where faith and joy could be shared together.
Following the enthusiastic response to the first gathering, the Youth Ministry launched a second evening for "Faith on Fire", expanding the initiative to include families as well. The evening opened with a spiritual reflection by Fr. Ramez Twal, chaplain of the General Secretariat in Galilee, who encouraged participants to renew their relationship with God and live their faith joyfully in everyday life. The program also included communal praise and a lively mix of classic and contemporary songs, highlighting the spirit of communion across generations.
Continuing its commitment to accompany young people at every stage of their journey, the Secretariat also organized a special retreat for high school students (ages 16–18), held at Don Guanella School in Nazareth. Inspired by the life of St. Peter the Apostle, the program reflected on the key moments of his journey of faith and how his encounter with Christ transformed him from fear and weakness into a courageous witness and leader of the Church. In his meditation, Fr. Ramez Twal focused on Jesus' enduring question to Peter—"Do you love me?"—emphasizing that the same invitation is addressed today to every young man and woman, calling them to respond through faithful Christian living.
The retreat also featured interactive workshops, small-group discussions, and engaging activities that helped participants discover God's presence in their daily lives. Organized by the Secretariat's High School Committee, the program concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass.
The General Secretariat in Galilee – Youth Ministry Office described these initiatives as the conclusion of the first part of its summer program. Additional activities for children, youth, and families are scheduled throughout the coming weeks, continuing the Secretariat's mission of accompanying the faithful, fostering authentic Christian formation, and encouraging a new generation rooted in faith and committed to serving both the Church and society.
Visit the Facebook page of the Youth to view their activities
