A crisis of connection is taking hold among younger generations. Recent studies show that young adults are increasingly retreating from dating, partnerships, and other important relationships. Instead of opening themselves to in-person relationships with others, many are turning inward toward online hyper-individualization and engaging in polarized digital discourse. Pope Leo XIV has responded to this worrying trend and called on young people to put “into practice the nature of the Church as communion,” reminding us that human beings are inherently social and called to authentic relationships.
How can we navigate this crisis of connection to live with faith, hope, purpose, and meaning? How can we resist the cultural trends of detachment and isolation to foster genuine relationships in our personal lives? How can we build community and live out principles of human dignity and solidarity to repair divisions between young men and women?
This Salt and Light Gathering for young adults brought together four leaders to understand this generational crisis of connection and how young people can cultivate authentic community and live faithfully, act on our beliefs, and encounter one another, leading to participation rather than isolation.
Christopher White, associate director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life, moderated the conversation.
This gathering had three parts:
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Happy Hour
Meet and network with other young leaders over food and drink
7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Dialogue
A conversation on “The Crisis of Connection: Strengthening Faith and Relationships” with four leaders
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. | Reception
Continue the conversation with other young leaders
This Salt and Light Gathering was for young Catholics and others to come together to explore key issues and personal stories involving faith and public life with respected leaders.
Resources
View articles, podcasts, and other resources for this dialogue.
