NATIONAL CATHOLIC YOUTH CONFERENCE
15 - 21 November 2010
St. John's Pastoral Centre - Tokarara

STATEMENT

We, the delegates of the 2010 National Catholic Youth Conference held at the St John's Tokarara Pastoral Centre, Port Moresby from the November 15-21, 2010, gathered to share views, analyze our problems, issues and needs and deepen our grasp of our reality as youths in order to banner our theme - "Keep the faith burning and alive".

We are aware of the issues affecting young men and women today - legal issues on prostitution, same-sex marriage, and cell phone gambling are among those hot issues peddled in our highways. Added to these are more complicated issues of "drop-outs" and "push-outs" youth from schools, big number of "un-schooled or out-of-school" youths, unemployment of our graduates, drug and alcohol abuse, child and women abuse, rascalism, pre-marital sex, clan disputes and tribal fighting. There are now growing numbers of youth vagrants and street-children roaming the roads of Port Moresby and other centers.
We are resolved NOT to be paralyzed by these realities. The youths could not remain "Sleeping." We need to be heard but where are the spaces and forums for us to speak?

We are in danger of being neglected and marginalized in the process of decision making, especially on issues affecting our lives. As an organized sector, our voices could hardly be heard, only personalities and individuals are "shouting" the cause of youth for some personal and political end.

When there are anti-social violations done, name-droppings are generalized as "out-of-school youths" or "the youths" and not named as individuals. This brings demoralization and low-self-image to our ranks as young people of today.

To keep our faith burning and alive we need to renew our hearts and minds: " We appeal to our leaders - to build a solid foundation of character in us by leading us through best examples, not only in words but above all in deeds.

" We appeal to our parents - to see in us the spirit of our ancestors and the image of God worth developing at a very young age. Support the youth by giving them space and your trust.

" We appeal to our fellow youths - to grab the moment as a blessing to grow and mature. Empower yourselves with good values and right skills Prove that you are trustworthy.
We journey with Jesus, to walk his ways, tell his truth and live his life.