This Synod of Bishops on the theme "Young people, faith and vocational discernment", unique in the history of the Catholic Church, surprises many young people and educators from across the globe. The young Maria Eugenia, who has been participating in SYM activities since she was a child, is now the representative of the young people of the Salesian environments at the Pre-Synodal Meeting.
How do you feel about participating in the Pre-Synodal Meeting?
Very happy. I belong to the SYM of Uruguay. I arrived there when I was at school, from the FMA, and little by little I became a part of it.
How do you evaluate the relationship between the young people of Uruguay and the Church?
Uruguay is a secular country, the relationship between the Church and Uruguay in general is very fragmented. There are many young people ... but there is not much participation by young people in the Church. Today we are looking for a greater participation.
What was your experience in SYM?
When I started I was in the group of Salesian Young Missionaries, a group that was preparing to participate in the mission. Now I am an animator. I participate in the oratory animating the other children and I accompany them in different youth-related contexts.
What hope does participating in a meeting like this give you?
Meeting with young people from different countries is the greatest wealth. The expectation is that this meeting will bear fruit and that we will be able to take advantage of it in some way, and that what is expected is really achieved, that is, that we can make our voices heard.
Both young believers and non-believers are present in the Pre-Synodal Meeting. What are your expectations?
Young people aren't just those who participate in the Church. It is a treasure to be able to listen to all the young people of the world.
How can SYM contribute to this meeting?
SYM works with young people. We have a broad vision of young people and reality. From contact with young people, from a youth perspective, we can contribute a lot ... I believe that the Church, with Pope Francis, are willing to listen.
The video-interview with Maria Eugenia is available on ANSChannel
