Is there still a place for religious youth groups in today’s society?

Catholic youth groups used to be more popular in the past than today, however this does not mean they have lost their purpose, Coordinator of the Link Youths Group Emmanuel Camilleri told The Malta Independent.

Link Youths is a youth groups in the Qormi St George’s parish. The group began around eight years ago, he said.

“It was the first such group in the area, and there were more than 100 members.”

Currently, he said, there are 3540 members in this group.

“The group is not only Christian in aim, but also aims to help build character for youths, and help teach them good strong values, strong morals.” Members are aged 15-29.

“Normally after Confirmation, one would have the choice of continuing through Muzew (Catholic doctrine), or not. Not everyone wants to continue Muzew. So a few youths got together, and wanted to create a group where youths from around Qormi can meet, make new friends, and have a place to meet after school and after work for activities.”

The group meets every Friday at around 8.30pm.

“Basically most of the time we hold discussions on subjects that interest youths, such as photography, informative meetings about internet security, etc. We try to make them interactive, using videos and music.

“The group also holds other kind of events. As an example, on Freedom Day, we went on a hike and held a treasure hunt. We try and hold events that interest our members. We do live-ins, movie nights, go out for walks, dinners, bbqs and so on.

“Some events include the community, such as the recent Last Supper meal. It took the form of a play, where we had actors play the part of the apostles etc.”

Asked how a Catholic youth group can attract more youths, Mr Camilleri mentioned two important factors.

“Firstly we are welcoming, showing them why they should keep on coming. Secondly, the topics of the meetings must be relevant. If you hold a meeting on an irrelevant topic, they will stop coming. It needs to be interesting, original and delivered in a creative way.”

He believes that 20-30 years down the line, youth groups will still be around. “I know of one group that nearly closed, but because they persevered in what they believe and in their aims, their numbers increased. Even if numbers decrease, don’t give up, continue showing interest in the message the group wants to deliver, and I think more people will come.”

He agrees that youths have been moving away from the Church over recent years. “This is not a Qormi phenomenon. If you go to any church after Mass, seeing ten youths is a lot. The truth is that youths might not feel the Church is as relevant, but this does not