A group of 20 children from the Diocesan Commission for Children (KDT), left Malta today to participate in the first World Children’s Day in Rome, Italy. The celebration, initiated by Pope Francis, will take place this Sunday, 26th May 2024.
70,000 children, aged 6 to 12, from all over the world are expected to join in activities organised by the Dicastery for Culture and Education of the Holy See. The highlight of the celebration will occur tomorrow when Pope Francis meets with the children for a moment of prayer, friendship and formation at the Olimpico Stadium. On Sunday, the Pope is inviting children to join him for Mass in St Peter’s Square.
Sr Anna Sammut, the Archbishop’s Delegate for Children, said: “An occasion like this is unique because it unites us as one big and beautiful Church. May these two days in Rome provide strong spiritual formation, helping the children grow with solid values and creating an unforgettable experience”.
In his message to children, Pope Francis emphasised that every child is precious and children are a sign of every person’s desire to grow and flourish. He stated that, in addition to unity among themselves, the children should also be united with Jesus as this relationship enables them to “dream of the renewal of our human family and work for a more fraternal society that cares for our common home”. The Pope encouraged children to listen to the advice given to them by adults and reminded them to always say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’, as these words are the first steps towards a better world. He reminded the children that they are a blessing not only to their parents and families but also to the Church.
The Diocesan Commission for Children within the Archdiocese of Malta focuses on the social and spiritual formation of its members. This is achieved through various activities such as weekend live-ins, monthly meetings, and sessions with the Archbishop. Additionally, the Commission supports the families of the children by organising activities for the entire family.
Updates on this experience in Rome will be posted on the Facebook page of the Diocesan Commission for Children and the Archdiocese of Malta.