20 August 2025

A million young people gathered together to celebrate a Roman Catholic initiative in Rome – ‘The  Jubilee of Youth’ which was led by Pope Leo XIV. This was a tremendous affirmation of the faith alive in  young people within our global Church.

We can only be encouraged by such a phenomenon even if it is not reflected in the smaller, aging parishes which predominate in our declining Western Church. Is it a sign that things are changing within the Church, a reversal of the misfortune which has befallen us in secular decline?

Speaking after this event, the Revd. Professor Paul Zulehner from the University of Vienna said, ‘We’re clearly witnessing a protest against mainstream secularisation, as groups of youngsters yearn for re-spiritualisation or re-enchantment.’

In attempting to unpack this phenomenon, he went on to say, ‘Many are looking for meaning beyond material success, when such perceptions have become enfeebled in our pluralistic societies.’ Abandoning the desire for material success is certainly Scriptural. Store up treasure in heaven, sell all and follow me come to mind!

The word which stands out is re-enchantment. You normally think of enchantment in the context of a fairy story – the enchanted forest or the enchantress with the spell. It has two valuable dimensions to it. The first is delight – and religion does offer us a delightful experience, a delightful world.

Secondly, and, more significantly, mystery. The enchanted forest is mysterious. The Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion are enfolded in mystery. The search for wisdom within the Scriptures is motivated by a desire  to penetrate the mystery surrounding God. Jesus is enchanting. The Gospel is full of enchantment. How can we share it?