“Young people are indispensable bearers of the dynamics of the Kingdom of God, the hope of the Church and the world.” — St. John Paul II
The Christian Youth in Jordan celebrated the Solemnity of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Our Lady of the Immaculate Heart Parish in Fuheis. Youth from all over the Hashemite Kingdom—representing the 32 Latin parishes and all age groups—gathered for a historic and vibrant celebration, the first of its kind organized by the General Secretariat for Christian Youth in Jordan (JEC).
Traditionally, each age group celebrates this feast separately. However, this year it took on a different character, marking the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the feast by Pope Pius XI through his encyclical Quas Primas (“In the First”), written in response to rising secularism and atheism. The encyclical called the faithful to embrace the kingship of Christ in all aspects of life, both public and private: “He is King of hearts… by reason of his charity which exceedeth all knowledge. When once men recognize, both in private and in public life, that Christ is King, society will at last receive the great blessings of real liberty, well-ordered discipline, peace, and harmony” (Quas Primas, 7,19).
The celebration extended throughout the entire day—from early morning until late evening—filled with activities, prayer moments, Eucharistic adoration, and joyful fellowship.
The day began with a solemn Mass presided over by Msgr. Iyad Twal, Patriarchal Vicar in Jordan, and concelebrated by Fr. Wajdi Twal, General Chaplain for Youth in Jordan, Fr. Ibrahim Nino, parish priest of Fuheis, along with several priests serving in Jordan.
In his homily, Msgr. Twal invited the young people to cultivate renewed spiritual attentiveness to Christ’s presence in their day-to-day lives.
At the conclusion of Mass, the General Secrtariat announced the theme for 2026 —“Be Ready” (1 Peter 3:15)—was officially announced. The theme calls young people to remain vigilant in their spiritual lives and to be witnesses of hope within their communities.
A Day Filled with Creativity, Formation, and Fellowship
The program featured a wide variety of performances and activities that showcased the creativity and dynamism of Jordan’s Christian youth. The Youth Group from Northern Zarqa presented a theatrical sketch; the group from New Zarqa offered musical pieces; and the host parish performed a traditional dabkeh dance.
In response to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, a lecture by Mr. Imad Hanna explored the topic “Identity and Artificial Intelligence.”
The day also witnessed the launch of a new book from the Vocations Office of the Latin Patriarchate, titled “God’s Voice,” written by Fr. Abdallah Dababneh as a spiritual guide to help young people discern God’s call in their lives.
Fun, Service, and Community Engagement
Serving participants of all ages, the event included a lively games station offering recreational, educational, and spiritual activities. An inclusive play area remained open throughout the day. Several companies participated in a youth-employment initiative, in collaboration with JECJobs, offering career opportunities, professional guidance, and mentorship.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Jordanian singer Tawfiq Al-Dalou performed a spirited selection of national songs, followed by an interactive musical segment led by the JEC youth band.
Exhibition booths showcased youth-led projects, community initiatives, and corporate partners. A blood-donation campaign organized by young participants added a meaningful dimension of charity and service to the celebration.
As evening approached, singer Natalie Semaan, accompanied by musicians Riad Zayadeh, Wajdi Haddad, and Fr. Michael Al-Dheeb, presented a moving set of spiritual hymns, followed by a candlelit procession with the Blessed Sacrament.
Fr. Wajdi Twal encouraged the youth to be “a living presence of Christ” and to place Jesus the King at the center of their daily lives.
The celebration concluded with a concert by Lebanese artist Georges Nehme, bringing the day to a close in an atmosphere of joy, unity, and renewed hope—highlighting the vital role of young people in shaping the future of the Church and society with steadfast faith.
New Youth Secretariat for 2026 Announced
During a Mass presided over by Msgr. Iyad Twal on November 17, 2025, at the Church of Our Lady of Nazareth in Sweifieh, the General Secretariat for Christian Youth announced its new secretariat team for 2026. Members of the outgoing secretariat submitted their resignations after a year of dedicated service marked by significant achievements and growth in youth ministry.
The newly appointed team includes:
- General Spiritual Director: Fr. Wajdi Twal
- Secretary General & Middle East Coordinator: Mr. Ghassan Asfour
- Northern Region Coordinator: Mrs. Abian Al-Nimri
- Central Region Coordinator: Mr. Marwan Al-Farah
- Central Region Coordinator: Mr. Sami Maay’a
- Southern Region Coordinator: Ms. Rosanna Haddad
- Activities Committee Head: Ms. Catherine Bajjali
- Training & Development Committee Head: Ms. Dana Tannous
- Public Relations Officer: Mr. Mousa Zayadat
- Media Officer: Mr. Osama Toubassi
- Service Committee Head: Mr. Fadi Edwar
The new secretariat begins its 2026 term with a renewed spirit of mission and hope, committed to accompanying young people and strengthening their role in the life of the Church and their wider communities.
