A Desire That Moves - The 38th Franciscan Youth Meeting has ended

Kalwaria Pacławska once again became the site of an extraordinary gathering – the 38th Franciscan Youth Meeting, titled "Desire," took place there from July 20th to 26th. The event was attended by 646 young people from across Poland, who spent a week seeking a deeper relationship with God, themselves, and others.

This year's FSM was a space for intense spiritual experiences, but also for joy, inspiration, and community. Daily Eucharists, services, conferences, workshops, and concerts created a unique atmosphere of a young, vibrant Church.

– Desire – this word will become a guidepost to entering the depths of the mystery of the Church – a community that continually draws holiness from God. It is He, the Holy One, who invites us to become holy in His image (cf. Lev 19:2). His desire to renew within us what comes from Him will guide us throughout this week of prayer, reflection, and being together. – explained the meaning of the slogan by Brother Piotr Kantorski OFMConv, FSM Coordinator.

Among the invited guests were renowned creators and artists who shared their testimonies of faith and their experience of God in everyday life. Muniek Staszczyk, leader of the band T.Love, spoke about his conversion and experience with illness.

"It was gratitude, not resentment. My life was saved. It was a miracle," he said, recalling his stroke in 2019. "Christ is the same. The most important thing is the relationship—and what's more, He cares about being our buddy," he added.

Among the most anticipated meetings was a conversation with Diana Paulińska – psychologist, sexologist, therapist, and founder of the IL SENSO Christian Therapy Center. In her talk, Diana addressed the topic of corporeality and sexuality as spaces in which one can discover God's presence.

"God gave us sexuality so that we could experience it well. Since He Himself is 100 percent good and is love, He would not create an area within us that would be harmful to us," she said.

She also emphasized the importance of communication in relationships, especially in marriage, and the importance of getting to know yourself – your emotions, desires and body – without fear.

In turn, Irmina Śliwińska – a television, advertising, and event director who collaborates with numerous stations and artists – emphasized that even the world of show business can be a place where God works. Although many associate the media world with superficiality, Irmina presented it as a space where God can also act.

– I don’t look at the world of show business as Sodom and Gomorrah, but as Nineveh – a place where God can act exceptionally – she said.

She shared her experience of prayer with people in the media community with whom she works and encouraged them to discern their dreams and plans in light of what God places in our hearts.

– God works through charm. Something attracts us, something inspires us – that means it's worth pursuing. – she quoted St. Thomas Aquinas.

Common activities, fantastic meetings

There was also plenty of space for personal development and integration. Participants could choose from a wide range of workshops – from intercessory prayer, psychology, and voice training, to rosary weaving and outdoor activities in the forest. Joint activities, such as a dance party organized under the slogan "All Saints' Ball" and a sports tournament, strengthened the bonds between participants.

The FSM finale had a unique character – Friday ended with a meeting with Bishop Piotr Kleszcz OFMConv, who shared with the participants the topic of desire from the perspective of Franciscanism, a thanksgiving service, and a concert of praise by Michał Król and Szymon Czyżewski.

Michał Król – one of the leading creators of contemporary Christian music in Poland, known for his moving lyrics and profound message – and Szymon Czyżewski – author of well-known worship songs such as “Psalm 77” and “Holy Spirit” – led the participants in a prayer full of power and authenticity.

"For me, this FSM was full of emotions. I met many wonderful people and was able to talk to them about God. It will remain a memory for me forever. It was a bit different than the ones I've had before, but I opened myself up to the proclamation of God. Calvary was such a safe haven for me; I felt accepted there just as I am." – recalls Mateusz, one of the participants, who spent his holidays at FSM for the second time.

Although the 38th Franciscan Youth Encounter has concluded, the "Desire"—the one that inspired and guided participants throughout the week—continues. A spark has been ignited in the hearts of many young people, a spark that can change lives and lead to a deeper encounter with God. As organizers, we have great hope for this.

FSM Press Office, Joanna Kiełt