Religious youth gatherings held in Ribeira Grande and Santarém

In Ribeira Grande, over 100 young people participated in a meeting organized by the Carlo Acutis Youth Group at the Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Estrela Parish. Guided by Father Carlos Simas, the event focused on revitalizing youth ministry under the theme “Let us go to the other side.” Participants discussed ways to reach youth who feel isolated, excluded, or distant from the Church, identifying obstacles such as fear of judgment and prejudice. Proposed initiatives for the new pastoral year include nature activities, intergenerational projects, and community gatherings.

In the Santarém region, the Teams of Young People of Our Lady (EJNS) held their annual “Maria do Ribatejo” meeting in Rio Maior. Approximately 80 participants, including youth and couples, gathered at the Alcobertas Pastoral Center from October 23 to 25. The event, themed “Build on the Rock,” combined spiritual reflection with community service. Activities included Eucharistic adoration and local service projects such as olive harvesting, building painting, and door-to-door community visits.