By Ms. Winnifred Arehu
Fr Robinson Parappilly

       Tetere, Solomon Islands, 29 April 2021 -- The first youth gathering of the parish took place from the 23rd to 25th with the theme "Catholic youth Holy, formed and sent for service." Almost 200 youth from 14 Christian communities of the Christ the King parish gathered to be formed and sent for service on vocation Sunday.

       Narrating the youth gathering Ms. Winnifred Arehu a form 6 student from the parish summarised 3 days youth gathering in these words.

       This is the first time for me to attend such a youth gathering. The theme attracted me to join the youth meet. The first day we were animated by Cl. Anthony Wale SDB. He inspired young people with his inspiring talk "Maturing in Christian faith". He encouraged us on the need to be connected with Jesus to grow into Christian maturity: daily habit of prayer and reading the word of God, reading spiritual books, and putting Jesus as foundation of our life help us to grow towards Christian Maturity.

       The second day was animated by Bro. George, one of the lay persons from the parish, who inspired the young people how to be formed in Christ for the service of the people and Church. We were reminded of our Christian faith in baptism and confirmation and the need to commit ourselves to outreach programs especially to people who are in need. All their inputs were helping me to get into the depth of my spirituality and prompting me for God's plan for my future life.

       In the third talk by Madam Modi one of our teachers in the parish inspired the young about how to form ourselves to be Holy. The manual God has given to us to be Holy is the Holy Bible. It is the instructions for life. We need to use our eyes, ears and senses for God. We make them holy to form ourselves to be Holy. Holy Family is the foundation of holiness. Make our home a Holy place.

       All our daily work must be Holy. She challenged the young people to transform our lives and become holy and transform the nation.

       In the afternoon we enjoyed sports and games. Sports and games like football, basketball, volleyball and footsal helps us young people to strengthen our relationship and friendship with the young people.

       In the evening being 24th of the month, we had a special Rosary service animated by the Don Bosco sodality of the RTC. The youth prayed for the country of Myanmar and Corona affected countries. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary we offered special flowers and candles for peace and healing in the world. It was very devout and prayerful experience and brought us more closer to God.

       In the night youth exhibited their talents in dance, drama, music, and variety of talent shows. The youth meet was full of spirituality and fun and we enjoyed fully.

       On Vocation Sunday the youth animated the Sunday liturgy and prayed for vocations. Very vibrant rythamayic dances and prayers by youth to made the celebrations very colourful and meaningful for us. Cl. Anthony Wale SDB, Sr. Sherly one of the Lapieta sisters and Fr. Albesa shared their vocation stories with us. We thank our new Parish Priest Fr. Robinson for organising this youth gathering and bringing the youth more closer to God. His stories of eminent personalities like Chase Hilgenbrinck, Andrea Jaeger, Dolores Hart who gave up their career and prestigious life and embraced religious life inspired us to understand the challenges of the religious and priestly vocation in our life. He invited many courageous young people to respond to God's call. These gathering helps us to build up a strong community of youthful hearts in our Christ the King parish.

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