“Santos”: ‘Young Professionals’ start a new season at Sacré-Coeur
From August 30 to September 1, 2,000 “young pros” aged between 25 and 35 gathered at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, Paris, for a time of celebration and learning.
“Make a noise, because your noise is the fruit of your dreams.”
Clearly, the message got through.
On the last weekend of August, during the Paralympic Games, the Basilique du Sacré Coeur took on a French JMJ air.
2,000 young Catholic professionals gathered at the first Santos Festival, coordinated by the French Bishops’ Conference, to experience a time of spirituality, formation, encounters and service.
A wide variety of topics were covered, including work, the Church and faith, ecology, personal development and emotional life.
In an article published in La Croix on September 1, Father Vincent Breynaert adds:
“We want to show them that they can take action now for the Church and society.It’s a nuanced and balanced generation, aware of the complexity of the world, that wants to get involved to change things and be trusted.”
Father Vincent Breynaert
Director of the CEF National Service for Youth Evangelization and Vocations
Workshops, conferences, masses and vigils punctuated the three days, as did informal exchanges, friendly discussions and open-air concerts in front of the Basilica. These events were an opportunity to meet tourists who were stunned, but seduced by the youth of the Church.
On Friday, a large fraternal meal was shared with people in precarious situations, sometimes marginalized, which concluded with a great vigil of prayer and mercy in the Basilica.
On Saturday, the Basilica was alive with praise and intercession, as one heart prayed to Christ.
On Sunday, the faithful who came for mass couldn’t believe their eyes: a true communion, a foretaste of heaven, was experienced as the high point of this “Santos” festival.
“In a world in turmoil, these young people have a strong faith, values and a message they want to pass on. They are aware of the realities and demands of today’s society, while remaining open to all. What hope for the Church!”
Father Stéphane ESCLEF
Rector of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica
The Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur is not about to forget this “joyful noise” and says it’s ready to do it again whenever they want.
Father Vincent Breynaert Director of the CEF National Service for Youth Evangelization and Vocations
Father Stéphane ESCLEF Rector of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica
