Young Catholics from around 100 countries are gathered in Manila for the July 6 start of an international youth festival organized by the global Focolare Movement. The 11th edition of Genfest, which is being held for the first time outside Europe, carries the theme “Beyond All Borders.” The three-day event aims to facilitate the “sharing of experiences” among young people, especially on culture and sustainable environment.
Gio Francisco, facilitator of the event, said workshops would be held simultaneously to encourage young people “to go beyond borders.” Other activities have already taken participants to the peripheries, including a trip to the island of Boracay to immerse with the Ati tribe. “In this globalized world … we are invited not to be afraid of the differences of the other and their cultures to contribute to a world that is more united and fraternal,” said Father Emmanuel Mijares, convenor of the group Youth for a United World International.
