The International Orthodox Youth Meeting (ITO-2026) opened in Bucharest on September 1, bringing together around 2,400 young people from the Romanian Orthodox Church and other Local Orthodox Churches.

Held from August 31 to September 3, the gathering is centered on the theme “Youth, Family and Life in Christ.” The opening ceremony took place at the National Cathedral and was attended by Romanian Patriarch Daniel, President Nicușor Dan, government officials and representatives of Bucharest City Hall.

In his address, Patriarch Daniel urged young Orthodox Christians to uphold Christian values amid rapid social change. He said youth in the Church requires the “desire and courage” to bear witness to enduring Christian values in a world increasingly focused on temporary ideals.

The patriarch placed particular emphasis on the family, describing it as the most important environment for the spiritual upbringing of children and young people. He stressed that faith is transmitted through prayer and good works and encouraged young people to become positive examples to their peers and active participants in Church life.

“A young Orthodox Christian who loves God and his neighbors reveals and bears witness that Christ gives people a humble and merciful love that frees them from selfishness and brings peace and joy to family, friendship and society,” Daniel said.

President Nicușor Dan called on young people to speak openly about their beliefs and values not only within the Church but also in wider public life. He also encouraged participants to maintain confidence in Romania and contribute to the country’s future.

Education Minister Mihai Dimian highlighted the importance of combining knowledge with spiritual guidance. He urged young people to “build bridges where others erect barriers” and not to fear either the future or their own identity.

The forum’s program includes prayers, conferences, meetings and cultural events. The international component features 65 young representatives of Local Orthodox Churches, including the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Patriarchates of Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem and Serbia, as well as Orthodox Churches from Greece, Cyprus, Poland, Albania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia and other countries.

Around 500 volunteers are involved in organizing the event. On the evening of September 1, the National Cathedral hosted a conference focusing on the role of youth and the family in contemporary society.

The International Orthodox Youth Meeting has been held since 2014. Previous editions took place in Baia Mare, Cluj-Napoca, Bucharest, Iași, Sibiu, Craiova and Timișoara.