Youths' spiritual values

The leading article on youths' values (The Sunday Times, July 9) was a clear and direct survey on the lack of important values among Maltese youths. It was noted that spiritual values were often missing and sometimes youths were hostile to religious practices. Selfishness and the lack of sacrifice followed. Several youths and adults do not feel the need for God because they think that they are self-supporting and can manage by themselves. However, this self-confidence is false and will not last.

Today, youths have everything the world has to offer but often are still unhappy. Several resort to drugs and alcohol. It is of no use inviting youths to be careful in their sexual behavior in spite of the AIDS epidemic. In Malta it is reported that the number of sexually transmitted diseases is on the increase. The survey also found that many youths are interested in their rights and not their duties although 35 per cent are conscious of both rights and duties.

Helping youths move into the social and religious maturity is a complex task due to the pressures of today's society. Leading a real Christian way of life is something of the past. Pope Paul VI 30 years ago said that there was the need to introduce catechesis on the Sacrament of Baptism, where all who were baptised will discover and experience the holy significance of the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This catechesis will enlighten and help many to walk freely and joyfully through their spiritual journey here on earth.

In 1975 the Neo-Catechumenal Way was introduced in several local parishes. There are many families and youths, both in Malta and Gozo, walking their spiritual journey with their parish priest or his assistant. It is not possible for the family alone to provide all the support needed to raise their sons and daughters for God.

Mature Christian communities can help and support each other because they become one and live in the body of Jesus Christ. The heart of Christianity is a special free relation with Jesus Christ and not a series of rules.

Finally, although we may notice a decay in the virtue of spirituality among youths, adults and families, mature and humble men and women should work freely.

They should help the local Church leaders by being witness to the love of our Lord Jesus Christ because sanctity is not something we acquire, but something we receive through faith and love in Jesus Christ.