Young people have a strong sense of right and wrong and should have the courage to make their voice heard.
That was the message from the Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Davies, on Wednesday afternoon at a service of thanksgiving for the centenary of UK Youth and for the work of Youth Cymru.
The Princess Royal, Patron of UK Youth, attended the service at Llandaff Cathedral, and met young people from across Wales involved with Youth Cymru projects. Also there was ITV news reader Andrea Benfield who spoke about the importance of youth work in young people’s lives and the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, who gave the blessing.
In his address, Bishop John, who is Vice-President of Youth Cymru, said young people made a “huge contribution to the life and vigour of their communities”.
He said, “The days of the young being seen but not heard are long gone. Young people should have the courage to make their voice heard.
“Young people regularly demonstrate an acute moral awareness and a willingness to stand alongside and serve the needy, which often puts others to shame.
“Today we give thanks for the voice of the young, the moral awareness of the young and the visionary ideals of the young; and for all who help them articulate that voice, maintain their moral awareness and work for those ideals.”
Keith Thomas, Chief Executive of Youth Cymru, said:
“We are very honoured that her Royal Highness is with us today to celebrate this important anniversary and the contribution young people make. We hear so many negative stories about young people in the media, but the truth is that the vast majority work hard at school, have positive relationships with their families and with other young people, and many make a real difference in their communities. Good youth work can both help support young people in their own development and help them make that difference. Youth Cymru and UK Youth are committed to working with partners to ensure that all young people have access to good quality youth work that meets their needs. Her Royal Highness’ presence today and her ongoing support as a Patron of UK Youth send a great message of support to young people and to those who work with them.”
