Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
The Church around the world joyfully observes the Annual Global Celebration of Young People, held each year on the Solemnity of Christ the King. This day recognizes the irreplaceable role of youth and young adults in the mission of the Church and renews the Church’s commitment to walking with them on the path of faith, growth, and holiness.
A Celebration Rooted in Christ the King
Christ the King Sunday closes the liturgical year with a powerful proclamation: Christ reigns—now and forever—and His Kingdom is already present in the hearts of all who follow Him.
Pope Francis, in 2020, moved the diocesan celebration of World Youth Day from Palm Sunday to Christ the King to emphasize that young people are not merely the future; they are the present of the Church, called to live under the loving kingship of Jesus.
Saint John Paul II, the founder and patron of World Youth Day, often reminded young people that they are “indispensable bearers of the dynamics of the Kingdom of God.” On this solemn feast, the Church echoes his message once more.
THE SPIRIT OF THIS YEAR’S CELEBRATION
ANNUAL THEMES – 2024 to 2027
As the Church prepares for these gatherings – both annually and in Rome – the Holy Father has given a two-year guide to mark the journey, under the theme of hope, a virtue that the world is in need of and that shines forth particularly in young people. The themes can be seen as an extension of the Jubilee Holy Year (2025) in that they speak of the courageous hope and witness that young people can offer to the world through the lens of Christ and the Gospel.
- 39th Global Celebration / World Youth Day, 2024-2025: “Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary” (cf. Is 40:31).
- 40th Global Celebration / World Youth Day, 2025-2026: “You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me” (Jn 15:27)
- 41st Global Celebration / World Youth Day, 2026-2027: “Take courage! I have overcome the world” (Jn 16:33)
For guides and other resources on the Christ the King Annual Celebration of Young People, please look to our Christ the King Annual page here.
NOTE: Dioceses, eparchies, parishes, campuses, apostolates, and other communities are free to adapt the themes, within reason, to integrate their cultural context and local circumstances. Furthermore, the annual date of the global celebration (Christ the King Sunday) is recommended but can be adapted to fit the pastoral needs and calendars of the community.
40th WYD Theme (2025–2026):
“You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me” (John 15:27).
This is the newly released theme for the 40th Global Celebration of Young People.
It invites youth and young adults to rediscover their identity as witnesses:
- Witnesses to Christ’s love
- Witnesses to His truth
- Witnesses to His presence in the world
- Witnesses through compassion, courage, and holiness
- Witnesses who stand with Christ even when the world misunderstands or opposes the Gospel
This theme beautifully follows Isaiah’s message, for those who hope in the Lord will not only keep running…
they will bear witness as they run.
WHY THIS CELEBRATION MATTERS
The Global Celebration of Young People is more than an event, it is a commitment.
It calls pastors, families, parishes, and communities to reaffirm their responsibility to:
- Listen to young people
- Support their dreams
- Encourage their faith
- Provide spaces for mission and leadership
- Walk with them as companions, not judges
It is also a moment for young people to celebrate their identity as beloved children of God, their vocation within the Church, and their mission in the world.
WAYS LOCAL CHURCHES CAN CELEBRATE THIS DAY (Optional Additions)
Organize youth-led liturgies or choirs
- Host dialogue sessions or listening circles
- Hold Eucharistic adoration or prayer nights
- Coordinate service projects or outreach
- Highlight youth testimonies within parish life
These practices ensure that the celebration becomes more than a calendar date, it becomes a living encounter.
A PRAYERFUL ENCOURAGEMENT
As we gather this year, we pray that young people may run without fear, trust without hesitation, and hope without growing weary. May Christ the King strengthen them, guide them, and shine through their lives for the good of the Church and the world.
PRAYER FOR THE GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF YOUNG PEOPLE
Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, You call young people to walk with You in faith, hope, and love.
Strengthen their hearts, steady their steps, and renew their courage when the journey becomes demanding.
Fill them with Your Spirit, that they may rise with new strength, run with perseverance, and live joyfully under Your gentle reign.
Bless all youth and young adults, and bless the Church that seeks to accompany them. May Your Kingdom flourish through their gifts, dreams, and witness. Amen.🙏
THE ANNUAL GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS ~ November 23, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-annual-global-celebration-of-youth-and-young-adults-november-23-2025/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/