The colonial city, with its rich history and natural beauty, has been the scene of various activities full of faith, hope and fraternal encounter. Prayer and music meetings also stood out in Coquimbo.
Thousands of young people from different parts of the country and the world continue their pilgrimage in La Serena, actively participating in the third day of National Youth Day (JNJ) 2025.
In the morning, the pilgrims began with the Encounters of Hope, a space dedicated to morning prayer and the exchange of dialogues about faith and hope in today’s world.
In the afternoon, starting at 3:00 p.m., the city came alive with simultaneous activities at different points. In the San Francisco de La Serena temple, the Taizé community offered a sung prayer, filling the place with spirituality and serenity. At the same time, in the San Agustín temple, the Brothers of Faith and Life led an enriching Lectio Divina. In the front of the Santo Domingo temple, the Plaza de la Reconciliación was built, a meeting space to reflect on forgiveness and unity.
At 6:00 p.m., the young people gathered on Francisco de Aguirre Avenue to participate in the Camino de Esperanza, a route that symbolized their commitment to bringing a message of light and hope to the world.
Meanwhile, in the city of Coquimbo, the activities also brought together hundreds of pilgrims. In the “Saint Peter” parish, the Sisters of the Lamb led a Prayer Workshop inspired by Blessed Carlo Acutis, offering a profound experience. At the Peñuelas Amphitheater, the afternoon culminated with vibrant outdoor concerts that united young people in an atmosphere of joy and brotherhood.
The celebrations of this third day will end with the Encounter Festivities, which will take place simultaneously in the parishes destined to welcome pilgrims, marking a closing full of joy and unity.
Testimonies of hope
From the Coquimbo waterfront, Sister Lorena Alegre, from the community of Talca, expressed her gratitude for the experience in one of the open-air concerts: “I think it is a very nice testimony, because first, we enjoyed nature.” that the Lord has created for us, something very beautiful here on the beach and the coast. We are also testimony of joy among the people who visit these sectors. This is what the Pope asks of us: to be immersed in the midst of others, to be a witness and to bring a message of hope, as the motto of this day says.
Carla, another pilgrim from Talca, shared her enthusiasm: “I feel that it is a very motivating idea for us as Christians, because it helps me realize that we are also part of a society that has fun, that we are not boring as many people believe.” and that we can perfectly integrate into this environment.”
National Youth Day 2025 continues to be a milestone of faith, unity and joy for young people throughout the country, who with each activity reflect the motto of the day: a message of hope for the world.
Source: La Serena Communications
La Serena, 01-23-2025
