Conscious and Active Participation: A Way to Transform Catholic Youth's Understanding of the Eucharist at Penfui Parish, Kupang

Abstract

This research aims to explore in depth the dynamics of the transformation of the internalization of the Eucharist at St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Penfui, Kupang, to understand how conscious and active participation acts as a catalyst for shifting meanings from mere ritual obligation to a dynamic personal relationship with Christ. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, this research involved six Catholic Youth informants selected purposively based on their active involvement in the life of the  Church. Data were collected through structured interviews and literature studies of Church documents and relevant scientific articles, which were then analyzed through stages of reduction, data display, and verification. The results reveal that Catholic Youth in Penfui Parish undergo an internalization process that shifts their paradigm regarding the liturgy into an authentic personal encounter with the Divine. This transformation is deeply rooted in the dogmatic belief in the Real Presence (Realis Praesentia) of Christ in the Sacrament of the Eucharist through the event of transubstantiation. The impact of this active participation is holistic, internally yielding inner peace and spiritual strength, while externally fostering a missionary consciousness to strive for justice and peace as a concrete manifestation of faith in the public sphere. Despite internal barriers such as  a crisis of self-confidence and structural obstacles like academic demands, strategies involving mystagogical catechesis and dialogic pastoral guidance have proven crucial in strengthening the maturity of faith. In conclusion, the Eucharist for young people has transformed from a weekly routine into the primary foundation for navigating the challenges of the modern era. Through fully conscious participation, Catholic Youth are prepared to become agents of change capable of integrating the mystery of faith into concrete social commitments for others.