On the occasion of Romania’s National Youth Day, His Grace Bishop Benedict of Sălaj conveyed a message of encouragement and guidance to all young people:
“Pay close attention to your mentors, learn from them, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.”
The bishop encouraged youth to cultivate two essential components for a meaningful and intelligent life: curiosity and apprenticeship.
“The first element involves enthusiasm, a thirst for knowledge, exploration, determination, and a spirit of adventure—all traits specific to this stage of life and indicative of both a dynamic journey and a generous perspective.”
On Human Choices
According to the bishop, apprenticeship involves posing questions to those who have already gained life experience. A person’s success depends on making the right choices and having a trustworthy guide. Trust in a good mentor is the path through which one can transform their talents into a great endeavour—ultimately passing that knowledge on to others.
“You can get involved, ask for advice, and, more importantly, see with your own eyes exactly how things are done. This perspective places us in a state of discipleship. Only those who stay close to a good master can transform their gift into a great project,” said Bishop Benedict.
“Our success depends on this choice. Beyond talent and creativity, only those who prove themselves good disciples can later become good mentors.”
The Noble Desire for Knowledge
At the end of his message, Bishop Benedict urged young people to keep their enthusiasm and desire to learn alive:
“On your day, Youth Day, we send you this thought: strengthen and cultivate your noble desire for knowledge, your need to engage with real-life experiences, and your eagerness to dive into new adventures. But also seek good mentors—professionally, personally, and most of all, spiritually.”
“Don’t rush. Investigate, reflect, but once you’ve done that, give your trust, observe, learn, and take action. There are people ready to walk with you, support you, encourage you—and even lift you up. A beautiful partnership can be formed between generations, and the successes can be truly great.”
Photo: Metropolis of Cluj
