SYNAG1 (Salesian Youth aNd Animators' Gathering)
for school 2018
By Ms Janine Nicole Quinto, SYM
Parañaque City, the Philippines, 4 August 2018 -- More than 265 Salesian youth animators, presidents and leaders from different youth groups and sodalities in the whole Philippine North Province gathered for the first Salesian Youth aNd Animators' Gathering (SYNAG1) for school 2018. The event aimed to share the NADs experience to the whole province, set goals for each youth group for this school year, begin with the handbook revisions, and of course, to strengthen the bonds of friendship between leaders of different settings.
The participants were welcomed by the Rondalla of The National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Parañaque. During the registration, they were given the chance to make a "mini tour" around the venue with some youth dressed like a saint as guide, giving them a tour that showcased the beauty of the shrine. In addition, there was also an exhibit area of the NADs 2018: how it looked, the themes, atmosphere, and the outcome of the event. It was followed by the Taize as the opening salvo to create the proper mood setting for them, and indeed placing Christ at the center of all activities. Then, there was the plenary of the NADs re-echoing, where it was explained to them what that event was all about, from planning to execution, and how it has made a mark in the history of the Salesian Youth Movement. There was also a video message from Chinggay Farrarons of the FIS province, and the presence of Diego Contreras from the FMA, who both shared their Emmaus journey during the NADs 2018.
Another highlight of the SYNAG1 was the simultaneous youth group meetings that took place in the afternoon. Here, they were grouped according to their sodality to discuss what would be their goal for this upcoming school year, what would be their plans, schedule of meetings, the handbook revisions, and others. It was facilitated by the members of the SYM Council namely, the animators and youth group leaders for each sodality.
Before the day ended, Kuya Chad, the provincial animator with the ad hoc team for the handbook revisions, Jeff, the senior youth leader with the presidents, and Janine, the junior youth leader together with the elected provincial youth group secretaries, had their separate short meetings wherein they were asked about their commitment, and what would be their tasks for the upcoming school year.
Graced by the holy spirit, it has been a productive and fruitful day for the whole SYM FIN. Thank you everyone and see you on SYALA 2018!
Viva Don Bosco!!!