Tetere, Solomon Islands, 27 September 2024 -- The Salesian Parish of Christ the King in Tetere organized a four-day youth camp from 19 to 22 September, with the theme "Awakening of the Lambs to be Wantoks of Love." More than 200 young people gathered for Christian and human formation. The theme was based on the Rector Major's 2024 Strenna and Pope Francis' message to the youth of Oceania during his recent visit to Papua New Guinea.
Earlier this year, during the Wantok Bosco camp, the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) had multiple opportunities to learn about the Rector Major's Strenna. This camp aimed to awaken the youth, encouraging them to reflect on whether they have become the "lambs" within their parish and families.
The camp opened with a beautiful adoration and reconciliation service led by Parish Priest Fr. Robinson, Parapilly, SDB. It enriched the lives of the young participants by addressing pressing issues affecting the youth of the Solomon Islands. Four key sessions focused on topics such as:
- The dangers of phone game addiction and excessive internet use among young people,
- Cultivating potential, building self-confidence, and setting life goals,
- The challenges of faith for modern youth,
- Christ's second coming as our eternal hope.
Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, SDB, the provincial superior of PGS, along with Bro. Paul Paiara, SDB and Bro. George, SDB, were the resource persons who delivered these sessions, offering valuable insights to the youth.
These sessions, coupled with group discussions and presentations, encouraged the youth to break free from their fearful, closed-off lives. As Generation Z, young people often find themselves confused by the fast-paced changes in technology, media, peer pressure, and social norms. Many struggle to understand why they act in certain ways, feeling disconnected from society's expectations. This camp provided a much-needed opportunity for the youth to understand themselves better, set meaningful goals, and unlock their potential.
It’s not easy for young people to step out of their comfort zones, particularly when it comes to detaching from the mobile world and music. However, the encouragement from the Salesians and parents motivated many to attend the camp.
This experience helped us to prioritize our lives, recognize our potential, and take on the challenge of unlocking that potential. Many youths live without clear goals or direction, but the Salesians offered hope, teaching us to cherish the love of Jesus and, with His grace, move forward in a world increasingly influenced by materialism, moral relativism, peer pressure, and technology.
The camp was filled with fun, laughter, prayer, games, and meaningful interactions with other young people from parish communities. The Salesian spirit of joy and family was evident in every gathering. The youth also had the chance to showcase their talents during a cultural night, where they felt supported and welcomed. The combination of games, moral lessons, action dances, cultural activities, and shared experiences made this weekend camp an unforgettable experience.
A big thanks to the Salesians and the entire team. The youth have committed to becoming "beautiful Lambs" rather than "Wolves" in society and being Wantoks of love.
6569_Annual Seminar on Salesian Accompaniment
