By Vincent A. Ochea

       DBYC Lawaan, Cebu, Philippines, 1 February 2023 -- The Don Bosco Youth Center, Lawaan conducted a Youth Vigil last January 28, entitled “Trail A Path: Choices, Chances, and Change”. The program aimed to provide an interactive platform for young individuals to reflect on the decisions they make, the opportunities they encounter, and the changes that shape their lives.

       The program began with registration at 5:00 pm, and as participants started to arrive, the energy was evident. Young men and women from different schools, youth groups, and sodalities came together to make for a diverse and dynamic crowd. The opening prayer was animated by the Lilies of the Altar, which set the tone for the rest of the evening. Father Vince Michael Sabal, SDB, delivered an inspiring welcome message, encouraging the participants to make the most of the program. The host also took the opportunity to ask the participants about their expectations for the program, which generated a great deal of excitement among the attendees.

       The program was designed to be interactive, and the first activity was an energizer and GTKY (Get to Know You) session. This helped break the ice among the participants and allowed them to get to know one other better. The participants were also grouped according to the places which they will belong.

       The talks on Choices, Chances, and Changes were the main highlight of the program. These talks were designed by young individuals to reflect on the decisions they make, the opportunities they encounter, and the changes that shape their lives.

       The talk on Choices was given by Ms. Genevieve Lavadia, who shared her personal experiences and insights on the topic, emphasized the importance of making well-informed decisions, and the impact that our choices have on our lives. She encouraged the participants to think carefully about the choices they make, and to consider the long-term consequences of their actions. She also shared practical tips on how to make better choices and how to avoid common pitfalls.

       The talk on Chances was given by Kuya Ike Abastillas, who discussed the opportunities that come our way and how to make the most of them. He talked about how to recognize opportunities when they present themselves, and how to take advantage of them. He also emphasized the importance of being open to new experiences and stepping out of our comfort zones. He encouraged the participants to seize the opportunities that come their way and to make the most of them.

       The talk on Changes was given by Fr. Erwin Cabilan, SDB, who shared his personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the changes in life as he talked about how to cope with change, how to embrace it and how to make the most of it. He also emphasized the importance of being adaptable and resilient in the face of change. He encouraged the participants to be open to change, to learn from it and to grow from it.

       These talks provided a valuable learning experience for the participants. They were given an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make and to gain practical insights and advice on how to navigate the opportunities and changes that come their way. The speakers shared their personal experiences and insights, which made the talks relatable and engaging for the participants.

       After the talks, there was an Adoration Prayer where participants were given time to meditate and pray. They were also given time to write a reflection on a sheet of paper, which allowed them to process the information they had received during the talks.

       The program concluded with a Praise and Worship session led by the #31DB band, and the energy in the room was at an all-time high. The event ended with a traditional talk by Rev. Father Andy Mendoza, SDB.

       The 2023 Youth Vigil at the Don Bosco Formation Center Lawaan was an enriching experience for the youth. It provided an opportunity for the young to reflect on the choices, chances, and changes in their lives, and to bond with others who were going through similar experiences. The program was well-organized and executed, and it is hoped that it will serve as an inspiration to all participants.

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