FIJI: YOUNG LEADERS FLOCK TO DON BOSCO
Mareko Pesamino sdb
SUVA: 18th October -- On the Feast of St. Luke, who wrote the Gospel of Joy, Suva City saw the largest joyful gathering of young school-age Catholic leaders in recent times. The occasion - a gathering of school leaders in the 14-15 year age bracket. This is a crucial age group in Fiji, since it marks the 'Faith drain' period between Confirmation at age 12 and the admissions age for 'Fiji Catholic Youth' at age 16. It has been our observation that very little opportunity for catechesis or involvement occurs in the interim and many are 'lost' to the Church. Fijian youngsters, like youngsters anywhere, like to come together, to dance, sing, play, pray and reflect, and the nearly 200 young people, comprising school leaders, post-school leaders and young Salesians, did all of those things on this occasion.
Of particular note was the role played by the young Salesians from the House of Formation, and the group that they have been forming for more than a year now, the Don Bosco Movement, so-called. The plan eventually is to invite further members into these ranks from the gathering of so many young leaders today.
Leaders spent some time reflecting on the effectiveness of their leadership at school level, by noting the pluses, minuses and possibilities of the task. The day, which began with a 'Good Morning' from Fr. Petelo, went without a hitch, and left the youngsters asking, obviously, for another - before Christmas if possible!
The long term Salesian plan is already well under way - easy and effective access to all the schools in the city with the purpose of developing good Christians and honest citizens on the widest scale possible for us, and keeping an eye out for future leaders who will explicitly adopt Don Bosco's approach, either as young lay leaders or as Salesians. Already one young Fijian is preparing for his first profession as a Salesian in January. We hope for many more.
