By SC THA
Hua Hin, Thailand, 10 October 2024 -- From 1-4 October 2024, the Commission of Salesian Youth Ministry, Thailand organized a youth gathering in the Salesian Family at the Don Bosco Youth Centre, Khao Takiap, Hua Hin, under the theme “The Dream that Makes You Dream”. 134 students from 9 institutes of the Salesian Family participated in the event.
The first day of the gathering began with an orientation by Father Nopphadon Joseph, who is responsible of the pastoral work of the Salesian youth in Thailand. The opening rite was presided by Father Boonlert Paneetatthayasai, the Provincial. During the gathering, there were times for learning through the inputs given by the Salesian Fathers, Brothers and Sisters, on various topics.
On the topic “The Dream that Makes You Dream” - this enabled the youth of the Salesian family to realize their individual dreams and to journey to that dream to inspire others to dream even bigger dreams. This was shared by Sister Chawiwan Ketthongma (FMA).
Father Nopphadon Joseph shared on the topic “Getting to know Don Bosco and SYM”. This enabled the youth of the Salesian Family to know and understand Don Bosco and the Salesian Youth Movement more.
Father Boonlert Paneetatthayasai spoke on “The Salesian Accompaniment as an SYM Leader” to stimulate the potential of SYM leaders to walk alongside the youth members.
The topic on “SYM Active Leadership” was taken up by Father Chinnawat Suvadinkul in order to make SYM leaders aware of working with a heart of service to others and not forgetting to give importance to themselves at the same time.
In addition, there were other activities such as Salesian games, recreational and beach activities, sandcastle competitions, swimming, and SYM Show Contest performances from each school. These activities were full of fun. The events were interspersed with Salesian moral and ethical reflections.
The gathering ended with a thanksgiving ceremony for the Salesian Youth Gathering 2024. This was officiated by Father Boonlert Paneetatthayasai, the Provincial. Afterwards, he also presented the certificates of participation to the nine schools and gave the awards to the winning teams.
