By Ma. Celine Ria C. Acosta

The Philippines North Province (FIN),7 March 2024 ---From February 28 to March 2, 2024, the Zepherin Camp gathered 42 young campers from the different Salesian Houses at the Caisip Beach House in Calatagan, Batangas.

The camp aims to bring together young people who discern God's will for them, deepen their knowledge and appreciation of Don Bosco’s life and mission, and, lastly, lead them to a deeper discernment and encounter with God.

The first day started with the participants’ exposure to the different Salesian apostolic works. The campers received a warm welcome from Fr. GC Carandang, SDB, to DB Tondo, and they were introduced to the Parish Ministry apostolate. This was followed by their visit to the Printing Press apostolate at DB Makati, where the campers were welcomed by Fr. Donnie Duchin Duya, SDB, and Fr. Drans Nolasco, SDB.

Afterward, they proceeded to SJB Makati to celebrate Mass with Fr. Mario Villaraza, SDB, at the Chapel of the Relic. The campers also had the opportunity to venerate the relic of Don Bosco afterward. Following this, they toured around the DB Pugad House facilitated by Fr. Pat Villasanta, SDB. After a hearty meal prepared by DBTI Makati, they also got the chance to interact with the TVET and Migrant students.

The campers were then welcomed to DB Tuloy by Fr. Beng Molavin, SDB, where they were oriented about the Street Children apostolate of the Salesians.

They also explored the place and interacted with the children at DB Tuloy.

The celebration of the Holy Mass marked the beginning of the camp’s second day. They proceeded to DB Batulao, where Fr. Edwin Soliva, SDB, welcomed them, and they were oriented about the Retreat Ministry of the Salesians. They traveled to Calatagan right after.

At Calatagan, the camp masters, Br. Dandrew Matias, SDB, Br. Roj Mallari, SDB, Br. Nathan Petate, SDB, and Fr. Jay David, SDB, prepared a series of activities to build teamwork and camaraderie among the campers. A merit-demerit system was also implemented to encourage healthy competition.

Through the different inputs, they were introduced to the life of Don Bosco, Friendship with Jesus, and Discernment. Special prayer moments were prepared for the campers to immerse themselves in their moments with God while looking at the picturesque beach before them.

The camp concluded with the awarding at Don Bosco Canlubang, hailing the Growling Lions group as the champion of the camp games.

The camp may have concluded, but the memories, shared waves of laughter, and bonds of friendship will surely last a lifetime. Big thanks to all Salesian communities that warmly accommodated the campers and helped make the event successful. Our gratitude also goes to the 42 Zepherin Campers who stayed with us for the entire camp.

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