Youth Gathering Under the Theme “Peace Begins with Me”
On October 1, 2026, the Youth Office of the Battambang Apostolic Vicariate organized a youth gathering under the theme “Peace Begins with Me.” The event was held at Thpoung Catholic Community and was guided and coordinated by Ms. Marie Phak, Coordinator of the Youth Office of the Battambang Apostolic Vicariate, together with Fr. Ching Yuk.
The gathering brought together more than 60 young people from five Catholic communities: Thpoung, Khnach Romeas, Chomnaom, Nigeam, and Poipet. This gathering provided a valuable opportunity for the young people to get to know one another, share their experiences, listen to each other, and reflect together on the role of young people in building peace.
The theme “Peace Begins with Me” reminded every young person that peace does not simply happen on its own, nor is it the responsibility of others alone. Rather, peace begins with our hearts, thoughts, words, and actions. Learning to forgive, respecting one another, listening with understanding, avoiding inappropriate or hurtful words that may create conflict, and helping one another with love are small but meaningful steps that can contribute to building greater peace within our families, communities, and society.
Young people are an important force for both the Church and society, today and in the future. Therefore, this gathering was not only a time for fellowship and building new friendships, but also an opportunity to learn, listen, share, and work together toward building a society rooted in peace, understanding, and mutual respect.
It is also worth noting that the program lasted for two days, from September 30 to October 1, 2026. Through this gathering, the young people were encouraged to recognize that peace begins with each person and that, through their daily words and actions, they can become instruments of peace in their families, communities, the Church, and society.
