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Young Orthodox Christians take part in a lights procession in Romania’s capital
The annual gathering drew 2,400 participants from Romania, its diaspora and 40 countries, highlighting youth faith and identity in a rapidly secularizing society.
On Wednesday, thousands of young Orthodox Christians processed through Bucharest streets with candles and flags, marking the eighth edition of the International Meeting of Orthodox Youth.
The annual gathering brings together 2,400 people aged 16 to 35 from Romania and its diaspora, where around 85% of the population identifies as religious, one of the most pious in the European Union.
During his Tuesday address, Patriarch Daniel noted the event provides "a concrete opportunity to intensify the mission of young people in the life of the Church today" in a "rapidly secularizing society."
Participants are exploring the theme "Young people, Family and Life in Christ" to address loneliness, while Paula Pantea, a 24-year-old attendee, described the church as a place for "refuge and solace."
Adrian Agachi, a priest for the Romanian Patriarchy, said participants from 40 countries will join a holy liturgy on Thursday at the National Cathedral, which opened last year with a 5,000-person capacity.
"The process of lights is gathering on the streets of the capital's participation in the International Meeting of Orthodox Youth 2026. The event is broadcast live by Trinitas TV and can be watched on Youtube and on the pages of Facebook Trinitas TV, Radio Trinitas and the Basilica News Agency. The pilgrimage takes place from the National Cathedral to the Patriarchal Cathedral "The Holy Emperor Constantine and Elena. Young people, wearing the lit…