By Fr. Joriz Foz Calsa, SDB

Cebu, the Philippines, 20 November -- Sunday afternoon is usually a quiet time in Don Bosco Liloan when the 100 resident boys are in siesta. But for the past two weeks it was a different atmosphere because through the Salesian Youth Movement, 25 enthusiastic Juventus Sodality leaders and members through the mentorship of Bro. James Antopina, a practical trainee, inaugurated the SUNDAY ORATORY.

Around a hundred kids coming from the nearby chapels of Cotcot, Ilacot, Ylaya, Tiltilon, and Camp Ville shared their joyful noise in the campus, playing, running, conversing, creating their own games from the toys and recreational materials the oratory offered them for use. It was a sight to behold and if St. John Bosco is present in the center truly you can imagine him smile from ear to ear.

The day started with free games, and then through the unfreezers children were taught how to release their good energy through dance and games. Then the student-leaders clustered them in small groups for the catechesis also prepared by their members. Since it was Christ the King, they developed the catechesis in line with it. After which, they went back in the assembly for a review of what they’ve learned and some deepening of the lessons.

The day then ended through a short prayer and refreshments were given to the joyful surprise of the kids.

As we commit to take care of the children of the parish especially in their faith formation, the young leaders are very much immersed in the Salesian ministry of evangelization and education. Juventus Sodality is spearheading the Sunday oratory but the vision is to gradually involve all youth groups like the KOA and LOA when in few weeks time we will introduce the Sunday Mass, the Auxilium when the feast days of Mary will be celebrated, and the Savio Friends club through sports and leadership camps. Da mihi animas is very much alive in Don Bosco Liloan! Thank you young people for taking the challenge.

---

---