Brother Sun Youth Camp - Cambodia 2018
Sihanoukville, Cambodia, 16 December 2018 -- Last weekend, 15-16 December, Don Bosco Kep hosted a much anticipated 'Brother Sun' youth camp with 31 young people coming from Salesian presences in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and Kep. The event was opened by Fr Roel Soto (Delegate Superior for Cambodia) and led by Fr Albeiro Rodas and two practical trainees, Cl. John Bosco Somony (Sihanoukville) and Cl. Anthony Hoang (Phnom Penh).
The Two day program was carefully planned, involving zeal and devotion: it began with a tree-planting ceremony involving saplings brought from all Salesian presences represented and a 'catechesis' on the Brother Sun 'monument' put up in Kep 10 years ago at the sea shore. This is dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. Then the youth planted different flowers brought from different Cambodia DB schools as a symbol of unity - 'We are one Don Bosco in Cambodia'. Opportunities for sports, prayer and meals followed.
During joint sessions in the Kep TV and media communication studio, the Salesians involved in the camp shared talks on Don Bosco, Salesian life and vocation as well personal vocation story testimonials by Cl. Somony, SDB and Sr Juanita, a Carmelite Sister. On Saturday evening all participants celebrated the Eucharist with Kep boarders, followed by 'Brother Sun Night' around candles at the sea shore 'kiosk'. Each youngster their own personal story. It was a very spiritual time of thanksgiving for Don Bosco and for Jesus.
On Sunday morning the participants shared 3 questions in pairs (face to face) by way of evaluation: "We want this experience every year, we need to be formed, we want to learn something more about God and about Don Bosco and his Salesian family. We are very interested in listening to personal stories of other youth and how God directs our lives. We need to know God better."
At the same time, Brother Sun Youth made a contribution to the SDB General Chapter 28 process - 'What kind of Salesians for the young people of Cambodia'? They have great dreams for the Salesians of Cambodia: "Salesians are our mentors, educators, fathers and friends. They must continue to be like our parents and mentors. Please, always remain with the young! Salesians must be patient and live with joy. They are models for us. Not all people can do like the Salesians, to give so much love and values."
The Youth Ministry team is already dreaming about the next 'Brother Sun' which hopefully will also involve youth from other Salesian communities at Battambang and Poipet.
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