A new dynamism was felt which enabled the councils to get well-organized for Rome. We discuss initiatives, the problems of young people and what can be done to help them. The new communities The new communities of France, most of which were founded in the 1970s, have played an important role in the increased interest in Catholicism among French youths. These communities, or movements, combine charismatic spirituality with total loyalty to the Pope and Church doctrine. These movements have an important place in the French pastoral programs because they propose a specific support and evangelization of youths, said Bishop Jean-Pierre Ricard of Montpellier, vice president of the French Episcopal Conference.
Parishes often find it difficult to open up space for young people.
But these movements really take them in. During the first World Youth Days, it was these new communities above all who brought the young. For example one of the great gifts of the new communities is their music, which is very expressive and joyful. Though all movements are different, many place a great emphasis on group prayer. Sometimes they even use music as an aid to prayer.