Don Bosco Philippines South Province

by: Gershee Jumao-as, Youth Leader, DB Lawaan Youth Center

The Salesian Youth celebrated the 206th Birthday of Our Father and Teacher, St. John Bosco last August 16, 2021 with the theme, #Quamustahan101. The celebration took place via Google Meet/Facebook live (Salesian Youth Movement-FIS page). The virtual gathering served as a venue for the Salesian Youth to reconnect and to update each other with their recent activities amidst the pandemic.

The #Quamustahan101 started with an Opening Prayer followed by the recital of the SYM Identity, Mission and Vision, and checking those who are present per District (Cebu, Negros and Mindanao District). Rev. Fr. Fidel Ma Orendain, SDB, the FIS Provincial Superior, welcomed the participants.

The activity became more lively and exciting because of the fun Trivias and Online Games on the Life of St. John Bosco. And one of the highlights was when young people were invited to share their thoughts and learning about the Life of our Father and Teacher, St. John Bosco as well as their experiences following his good deeds and teachings.

Two of the participants volunteered to share something about Don Bosco especially in this time of pandemic. One of the them shared, “As a youth in this time of pandemic we see Don Bosco as our friend, inspiration, a father and teacher who is always there to guide and inspire us to continue and live life despite all the challenges and struggles we are facing right now. And through the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, we pray for the Church, for our family and friends, for the frontliners, for the poor and abandoned, and all the dying.” At the end of the activity was the video launching the upcoming activities of the SYM-FIS for 2021-2022.

The virtual celebration brightened and encouraged the young that there’s more to life. Indeed, even in this trying time, we continue to tell the world, “Youth serving youth!”