Encountering Christ in the Eucharist

A Qualitative Study on Youth Faith Formation and Ecclesial Participation

Abstract

This study explores the role of the Eucharist in the spiritual formation and ecclesial engagement of young Catholics. Drawing from in-depth interviews with ten members of the Catholic Youth Community (KOMKA) at St. Luke Parish, Temindung, Samarinda, the research employs a qualitative method with a thematic-descriptive approach. The findings reveal that young people perceive the Eucharist as a personal and transformative encounter with Christ, which strengthens their daily lives and fosters ethical commitment and community belonging. However, several barriers—including digital distractions, limited catechesis, and perceived liturgical irrelevance—hinder deeper engagement. The study highlights the importance of contextualized faith formation, active participation, and creative pastoral strategies that integrate Eucharistic spirituality with the realities of youth life. Theologically grounded in the teachings of the Church, particularly Christus Vivit, Gaudium et Spes, and St. Augustine’s concept of communio, the research affirms the Church’s vocation as a home for education, character formation, and mission among youth. It calls the Church to walk with the young and cultivate the Eucharist as a daily source of identity, vitality, and love.