The Archdiocese of Seoul has formally launched a nationwide pilgrimage of the World Youth Day symbols, marking a significant step in preparations for World Youth Day Seoul 2027. The initiative began with the blessing of fifteen logo sculptures at Myeongdong Cathedral, each representing one of South Korea’s dioceses. These sculptures, bearing the names of their respective dioceses, signal the start of a domestic journey that follows the return of the World Youth Day Cross and Marian Icon to Korea in late 2025. Church leaders described the pilgrimage as a visible sign of unity and shared responsibility among dioceses as the country prepares to welcome young people from around the world. The launch event emphasized that the pilgrimage is not only logistical but spiritual, inviting local communities to reflect on their role within the global Church and the deeper meaning of hospitality, encounter, and faith ahead of the international gathering.
The World Youth Day Cross and the Icon of Our Lady had spent the previous year traveling across multiple countries, carrying the prayers and intentions of young people between nations. Their international journey included stops during major youth events, reinforcing their role as symbols of continuity and shared hope within the Church. With their return to Korea, the focus now turns inward, as the symbols begin visiting dioceses across the country. Church officials highlighted that this domestic pilgrimage allows local communities to connect personally with the wider mission of World Youth Day. The movement of the symbols from one diocese to another is intended to foster spiritual preparation, reflection, and active participation among parishes. Each stop will be accompanied by prayer services and youth gatherings, creating moments of encounter that strengthen bonds between generations and dioceses in anticipation of 2027.
Archbishop Peter Soon taick Chung presided over the blessing ceremony and described the logo sculptures as reminders of both grace and responsibility. He encouraged the faithful to commit themselves fully to the long process of preparation, emphasizing that World Youth Day is not a single event but a journey that unfolds over time. According to the Archbishop, the presence of the sculptures in dioceses and parishes will serve as daily reminders of the call to grow in faith and service. He expressed hope that those who encounter the symbols would be inspired to deepen their spiritual lives and reflect Christ more fully in their communities. His message stressed welcome, encounter, and spiritual readiness, underscoring that the success of World Youth Day depends as much on inner preparation as on outward organization.
The design of the sculptures reflects World Youth Day’s emphasis on ecological responsibility and youth involvement. Created using recyclable paper based materials, the sculptures align with the Church’s call to care for creation while remaining accessible and symbolic. Designed by a young volunteer, the structures vary slightly in size but share a common form and message. Following the launch, the sculptures will be distributed nationwide and accompany diocesan and parish events throughout the pilgrimage. The journey of the symbols will begin in the Diocese of Wonju and continue through all fifteen dioceses before returning to Seoul in 2027. Church leaders say the pilgrimage stands as a sign of communion, highlighting how local faith communities are united in preparing for a global moment of encounter and renewal.
