Youth ministry in the thought of bishop Nikol Guzeppi Cauchi (1967-2006)

Abstract

Through an in-depth analysis of the life and teachings of Mgr Nikol Ġ. Cauchi, Bishop of Gozo for thirty eight years, this dissertation seeks to accomplish a thorough reflection on his ministry with the young Catholic members of his Diocese. This is illustrated in his pastoral plans, norms and initiatives, homilies, circulars and official documents, books, speeches, interviews, correspondences, and other writings and media. It is hoped that this study will shed new light on the qualities of a local spiritual shepherd with a creative personality, marked by deep pastoral charity and great sensitivity for the young, and who, in the light of the Second Vatican Council, sought concrete initiatives to promote the Gospel in an intelligible language. Rather than providing a chronological and systematic list of sources, the dissertation examines a list of the core themes and elaborates upon them. The extensive Magisterium of Bishop Nikol Ġ. Cauchi remains to this day a joyful invitation to the local Church and youth ministers in particular to read the ‘signs of the times’, and passionately strive to help young people meet Christ in their concrete daily situations.