Frequently in the Synod Hall there were heartfelt pleas to invest generously, for the young, in educational passion, extended periods of time and also economic resources. Gathering together various contributions and wishes that emerged during the synodal exchanges, and listening to experiences already under way, the Synod proposes with conviction to all the particular Churches, to the religious congregations, to the movements, to associations and to other ecclesial bodies that they offer the young an experience of accompaniment with a view to discernment. This experience – whose duration should be determined according to contexts and opportunities – can be described as a time destined for the maturation of adult Christian life. It should involve prolonged detachment from habitual environments and relationships, and it should be built around at least three indispensable elements: an experience of fraternal life shared with adult formators that is essential, simple and respectful of the common home; a firm apostolic programme for living together; an offer of spirituality rooted in prayer and sacramental life. In this way all the necessary ingredients are in place for the Church to be able to offer the young who wish it a profound experience of vocational discernment.
TheoFonsAt the sources of the faith