Bishop Baylon Urges Taize Pilgrims to Keep Flame Burning

MANILA, Feb. 21, 2010─Chairman of Episcopal Commission on Youth and Legazpi Bishop Joel Baylon has urged the Taize youth pilgrims to carry on the spirit of the pilgrimage of trust in their lives.

In a letter he wrote to group contact persons of the Philippines, the bishop encouraged the co-pilgrims to keep the flame of love burning in their hearts as they continue "to search for life in fullness" and seek "to transform the world" amid challenges.

"One week has almost passed since we have ended our encounter in Makati, but we hope that, together with you, we will keep the flame burning: rooted in and guided by the Gospel, we continue in our search for life in fullness, we hasten to respond to the call to transform the world," Baylon wrote.

He encouraged the young pilgrims to meet in groups and plan some concrete actions to respond effectively to urgent concerns facing Church and society, especially the upcoming May elections.

Baylon also exhorted them to keep on "living in the spirit of the pilgrimage: in simplicity, communion, serene joy and trust."

He likewise advised them to pray for the devastated country of Haiti every 12th of the month as requested by a youth from Haiti.

On February 27, the Taize brothers will meet again the young people from the local preparation groups, foster families and other volunteers for sharing, prayers and thanksgiving. (Pinky Barrientos, FSP)