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Chennai hosts South Asia Regional Oratory and Youth Centre Meeting

25 July 2024

- Fr. Patrick Lepcha, Youth Delegate, DBYA-SA

The annual South Asia Regional Oratory and Youth Centre meeting was held at the Provincial House of Chennai on July 19 and 20. Thirty participants attended, including youth ministry delegates, Oratory directors, lay collaborators, and Vice-Provincials. The meeting focused on studying and evaluating the updated document on Oratories and Youth Centres from the Youth Department in Rome, with the goal of strengthening the existing youth centres in the provinces.

The event commenced with a Lectio Divina session on the miracle of the five loaves and two fish, symbolizing compassion and care for the youth. Fr. Patrick Gloria Alexander and Fr. Patrick Lepcha led discussions on the importance and current status of youth animation in South Asia. Fr. Ashley Miranda presented key points from the updated document.

Participants shared best practices and plans for various oratories and youth centres. Visits to significant sites, including St. Thomas Mount and Don Bosco Vazhikaatti, provided insights into effective youth engagement and career guidance programs.

The second day featured a Holy Mass by Archbishop Emeritus A. M. Chinappa, group discussions, and formulation of action plans for the region. The meeting concluded with a dinner and evaluation at St. Mary's Co-Cathedral, expressing gratitude to the Chennai Province for their hospitality and organization.