Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East has called on participants in the General Conference of the Orthodox Youth Movement to preserve their living faith, avoid formalism in church activities, and strengthen the unity of the Church.

The meeting took place on November 13 at the Balamand Monastery in Lebanon, following an evening church service.

Addressing the conference participants, Patriarch John X emphasized that Christianity must remain an integral part of people's lives despite everyday challenges and external pressures.

He highlighted the importance of prayer and spiritual attentiveness, describing them as essential to inner transformation, self-knowledge, spiritual purification, and personal growth.

Speaking about the Orthodox Youth Movement, the Patriarch cautioned participants against becoming overly focused on organizational structures at the expense of the movement's original spiritual mission. He urged them to preserve the enthusiasm and dedication of its founders.

"You, as members of the movement, must remain active people, inspired by the fire of the pioneers who came before you," Patriarch John X said.

He also stressed that maintaining Church unity requires avoiding unilateral decisions and actions. Instead, he said, cooperation should be built on mutual support, listening to one another, and trust.

The Orthodox Youth Movement of the Church of Antioch has been active in Lebanon since 1942. According to the movement's website, its activities include organizing educational programs and gatherings for teenagers and university students, establishing church choirs in parishes, and providing assistance to schoolchildren from low-income families.

The movement also publishes Orthodox literature and the magazine An-Nour (The Light), which has been published since 1944.