Cardinal Yu Heung-sik: "Saddened by Itaewon Tragedy... Many Pray for Korea"

Appointed Prefect of the Vatican's Congregation for the Clergy in June Last Year
Responsible for Priest Formation and Seminary Education
Pope Deeply Moved by the 200th Anniversary Film 'Birth' of Father Kim Dae-geon
Pope Shows Great Interest in the Korean Peninsula... Has Expressed Willingness to Visit North Korea

Cardinal Lazarus Yoo Heung-sik, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy of the Holy See. Photo by Korean Catholic Bishops' Conference

[Asia Economy Reporter Seo Mideum] “The Itaewon tragedy is truly a great sorrow and an event that should never have happened. I heard from many cardinals in Rome that they are praying. (...) If even a few people had been faithful to their duties and devoted themselves throughout the many processes, such a large-scale tragedy would not have occurred...”

At a press conference held on the 2nd at the Korea Catholic Central Council in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, Cardinal Lazarus Yoo Heung-sik conveyed that the Vatican is also concerned about the Itaewon tragedy and that many people are praying. He added, “Many are saddened by this backward tragedy that occurred in Korea, which is advanced in digital technology.”

Born on November 17, 1951, in a non-Christian family in Nonsan, Chungnam, Cardinal Yoo serves as a bridge between the Vatican and Korea. On June 11 last year, he was appointed by Pope Francis as the Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, assisting the Pope closely. The Congregation for the Clergy is a kind of educational and administrative department responsible for priestly formation, priest education, and approval of budget execution for local churches worldwide.

Cardinal Yoo said, “When I took office as Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, the whole world finally realized that the Vatican has become a global church. It is no longer just the Vatican of Italy, Europe, or America.” He added, “Sometimes I feel that people treat me differently because of this position, but I think that means I can do more (positively).”

On that day, Cardinal Yoo answered questions about various social issues and the Church. Regarding the decreasing number of candidates for the priesthood, he said, “Priests must become attractive to young people,” and added, “Loneliness and solitude are difficult, but if you live the Gospel, you can never be alone. When you go out from this side, the other side responds. When you love, you are not alone.”

Regarding sexual scandals involving Catholic priests, he expressed concern that “some issues are often reported exaggeratedly and inaccurately,” but also explained, “Similarly, if you live the Gospel, you cannot use others as (sexual) tools. Rather than focusing on what to do or not do, we are striving to educate priests to live as mature priests who embody the Gospel.”

Cardinal Yoo then mentioned the Vatican and the Pope’s special love for Korea, referring to the movie Birth, which depicts the life of Korea’s first priest, Kim Dae-geon. The film was planned at Cardinal Yoo’s suggestion last year to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Saint Andrew Kim Dae-geon. Cardinal Yoo said, “The Pope praised it as a truly beautiful film.” He also added, “When the COVID-19 vaccine was first developed and the global Church requested help for neighbors in need, the Korean Catholic Church was the first to respond. The Pope is very grateful for that.”

Next year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Korea. Regarding this, Cardinal Yoo said, “In the past, the Vatican provided full support behind the scenes for Korea’s admission to the UN. I hope such history will be well reflected through symposiums and the like.” He continued, “On August 24, the Pope clearly expressed his willingness to visit North Korea if invited during an interview with KBS. If the Pope, a symbol of trust, steps in as a mediator, many things will change. Everything depends on North Korea.”

He also mentioned issues related to sexual minorities. He said, “It is not right for sexual minorities to suffer disadvantages and discrimination,” and explained, “In foreign countries, there are priests who specifically help them live happily in their circumstances. The Church is paying great attention to this.”

Cardinal Yoo, who came to Korea on vacation, will carry out a private schedule. However, on the 8th of next month at 10:30 a.m., he will celebrate a thanksgiving Mass commemorating his ordination at Solmoe Holy Site’s Church of Memory and Hope, where he previously served. The message and live broadcast can be viewed on the YouTube channel of the Catholic Diocese of Daejeon.