NEWS
Youth Gather to Celebrate Self, World and God in the Presence of Rector Major
The highlight was the Eucharistic celebration presided over by the Rector Major, Father Ángel Fernández Artime, on October 21, in thanksgiving for the canonisation of Saint Artemide Zatti, a Salesian Brother and the director of San Jose Hospital in Argentina for nearly 40 years. Amidst the many hardships, Zatti went about with a spirit of serenity and joy typical of St John Bosco. Known as the Holy Nurse of Patagonia and the Relative of the Poor, he was a saintly man while he was alive. Father Artime invited the young to inculcate a strong sense of belief like Saint Zatti.
An eco-campfire and various programmes were presented from the Salesian institutions, highlighting values related to the self, world and God. The birthday of Ms Ridhima Pandey, a climate activist from Uttarakhand and the resource person for the event, was celebrated.
On the following day, the gospel band Echoes of Zion lifted the spirits of all participants with their heart-thumping music and singing. During the input sessions, Ms Pandey shared her life story, arousing in the youngsters the enthusiasm and the need to do their bit in helping protect mother Earth. Mr Denzil Rodrigues spoke on financial management and explained how young people smartly and efficiently can buy shares in the stock market. Psychologists from Don Bosco Prafulta Andheri held discussions on Care for Self.
An exhibition of dance forms highlighting the various cultures of the Province was held. Following this, the Rector Major and the youth had a lively dialogue, song and dance. He joined the youngsters for lunch, and they went on to gather around him for photographs. His actions were true to his words, “We Salesians exist because of you, my dearest young people.”
The concluding Eucharist was presided over by the General Councillor for South Asia, Father Biju Michael. In his homily, he stressed that all are special in the eyes of God, and therefore every person must bear good fruit.
Team building and fun tele-games were conducted according to the various institutions. In addition, a lively and energetic Zumba session was held. Though initially shy, the youth immersed themselves actively in the dance without inhibitions. It was a time to come together, learn something new, and celebrate the richness of the Don Bosco Way and the potential of young people.
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