(ANS – Seoul) – In an atmosphere of deep prayer and vibrant hope, more than 300 members of the Salesian Family gathered on July 10 in the chapel of the Salesian Provincial House in Seoul for the “Salesian Family WYD Kick-off Mass,” marking the beginning of preparations for World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul.

Salesians (SDB), Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), Salesian Cooperators, ADMA members, Volunteers of Don Bosco, Past Pupils, lay collaborators, and young people from the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) came together to welcome the WYD Cross and the Icon of Mary, which were solemnly enthroned before the altar.

Presiding over the Eucharist, Fr Marcello Baek Kwang-hyun, Provincial, reflected on the transforming power of the Cross. “Though often seen as a sign of suffering,” he said, “when united with the anxieties and wounds of our young people, the Cross becomes a source of new hope.” He encouraged participants to entrust their deepest prayers to the Cross, reminding them: “You are not alone. The Lord walks with you.”

In a moving moment, the chapel lights were dimmed as young people approached the Cross, attaching written prayers and personal intentions. The gesture became a powerful sign of surrender and trust. Music by the Bosco Praise Band and reflective hymns deepened the spirit of recollection.

A young participant, Maria Kim Ye-seul, shared her WYD testimony, describing how the Lisbon experience helped her rediscover God’s loving plan amid uncertainty. “The love I received,” she said, “must now become love that gives praise to God in the world.”

Fr Michael Jang Dong-hyun, Chair of the Salesian WYD Preparation Committee, announced that during WYD 2027, a major Salesian youth festival will gather 3,000 to 5,000 young people from around the world, combining reflection, dialogue, and celebration in the spirit of Don Bosco.

The WYD Cross and the Icon of Mary will remain in the Provincial chapel for days of prayer with youth groups. For the Salesian Family of Korea, this celebration marked more than a beginning—it was a clear sign that, leaning on the Lord’s Cross, anxieties can truly be transformed into hope.