Thousands of young Orthodox Christians participated in a candlelit procession in Bucharest, Romania, as part of the eighth edition of the International Meeting of Orthodox Youth. The event drew 2,400 participants aged 16 to 35 from Romania, its diaspora, and other Orthodox churches.
The procession of lights, a significant event in the four-day program, illuminated a path from the National Cathedral, also known as the People's Salvation Cathedral, to Patriarchate Hill, a historically sacred site for Romanian Orthodoxy. Attendees carried candles and flags as they walked through the capital's streets.
The International Meeting of Orthodox Youth aims to provide young people with an opportunity to engage with their faith in an increasingly secular society. Patriarch Daniel, in his opening speech, emphasized the importance of young Orthodox Christians serving as missionaries and testifying to "eternal Christian values" in a world often focused on "ephemeral models and values."
The theme for this year's gathering, "Young people, Family and Life in Christ," addresses challenges faced by the current generation, including technological hyperconnectivity, loneliness, a lack of role models, and the search for meaning. Organizers highlighted the church as a place where young people can find refuge, solace, and community.
Romania is considered one of the most religious countries in the European Union, with approximately 85% of its population identifying as religious. The Romanian Orthodox Church holds a prominent position in society.
The National Cathedral, which opened last year after 15 years of construction, can accommodate 5,000 worshippers and is described by the Romanian Orthodox Church as a "symbol of national identity." Attendees from the meeting are scheduled to join other Orthodox believers on Thursday for a holy liturgy at the cathedral. According to Adrian Agachi, a priest and press office coordinator for the Romanian Patriarchy, participants came from 40 countries.