Abstract:

In the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region of China, many Catholic young people receive their education in public schools where religion is largely separated from educational life. Academic pressure, limited opportunities for religious expression, and irregular participation in parish activities shape how these young people experience and practice their faith. Yet the absence of visible religious expression does not necessarily mean the absence of belief. This study explores how Catholic youth aged 15–24 live their faith quietly within these circumstances and how the Church can offer meaningful pastoral accompaniment.

Using the See–Judge–Act methodology, the study draws on pastoral observation, seven anonymized written responses, three informal follow-up conversations, and relevant theological and psychological literature. The findings reveal that young Catholics often maintain their faith through personal prayer, moral choices, family relationships, and selective expressions of religious identity. While some are comfortable sharing their faith with trusted friends, others prefer to remain silent in school settings. Such silence may reflect prudence and sensitivity to their environment rather than indifference or a loss of faith. Nevertheless, quiet faith can also become fragile when young people experience limited community support, uncertainty about their identity, or difficulty integrating faith into everyday life.

To interpret these experiences, the study draws on Erik Erikson’s understanding of identity formation, James Fowler’s theory of faith development, and Catholic theological and pastoral teaching. Particular attention is given to the Emmaus narrative (Luke 24:13–35), where the risen Christ accompanies two disciples through listening, dialogue, and the gradual recognition of faith. This biblical encounter provides a pastoral model that begins with the actual experiences of young people rather than demanding immediate religious expression.

Building on these insights, the study proposes a parish-based model of pastoral accompaniment through small-group gatherings and individual follow-up. The model emphasizes attentive listening, reflection on lived experience, dialogue with Scripture, prayer, and practical responses to daily challenges. It seeks to provide a trustworthy community where young Catholics can develop a deeper understanding of their faith, strengthen their relationship with the Church, and gradually integrate Christian values into their daily responsibilities. Its implementation requires sensitivity to local circumstances, confidentiality, and respect for individual freedom.

The study concludes that quiet faith should be understood neither as a failure of belief nor as an ideal condition requiring no further growth. Rather, it represents a contextual and developing form of Christian faith. The Church’s pastoral responsibility is to recognize the faith already present, accompany young people with patience, and help them move toward a more integrated, mature, and meaningful Christian life.

Final Defense:

Board of Examiners:

1. Fr. Teodulo Gonzales, S.J., Ph.D. (Adviser)
2. Fr. Jojo Fung, S.J., Ph.D. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner)
3. Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj, S.D.B., Th.D.

Proposal Defense:

Board of Examiners:
1. Fr. Teodulo Gonzales, S.J., Ph.D. (Adviser)
2. Fr. Renato de Guzman, S.D.B., S.T.D.
3. Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj, S.D.B., Th.D.