Kolkota, Dec. 2, 2018: The youth leaders and animator’s formation programme, SYM India, Central Region which comprise of Hyderabad, Kolkata and Delhi Province was held in Don Bosco Nitika Kolkata from 1 – 2 December. It was conducted in English however Hindi and Bengali too was used to make the participants understand better. There were 4 participants from Hyderabad, 13 from Kolkata and 13 from New Delhi Province. Delhi was represented by 7 girls and 6 boys from Ranchi Region. They travelled to Kolkata on 30th December with Fr. Deepak Kindo SDB who is the in charge of Social dimension of the province.
The Programme started by 10:15 a.m. Fr. Patrick Lepcha SDByouth pastoral delegate of Kolkata welcomed everybody and introduced theresource persons The Chief co Ordinator and the main resource person was Fr. Robert Simon SDB, Social dimension in charge at the national level. Along with Fr. K.T Jose from Hyderabad two Salesian sisters also participated in the programme. The first day sessions included the theme “Knowing Don Bosco & SDBs, “Understanding Movements; SYM-History & Relevance” “SYM in the making; evolving statues & Guidelines”, “Salesian Youth Spirituality; Living & Promoting it”, “Building and Leading Movements”, SDB Identity; Preventive System Today”. There were also moments of relaxation as different provinces animated the gathering with party games and action songs. After the supper, there was family gathering on the first day. There were occasions to participate in the spiritual moments like Holy Eucharist and Eucharistic adoration.
On the 2nd day, the different provinces came together to take concrete decisions to carry out after they go back to the provinces. The Delhi Province decided upon various things:
a.) There will be training of youth leaders at the parish level and at the province level.
b.) Youth gathering at the local level and the province level.
c.) Awareness programme for the parents with the present political and social scenario.
The programme was concluded by 4 0 clock. After the tea, the youth along with Fr. Deepak went to Dharamtala for shopping. On 3rdDecember the group went to Bandel and had rosary together at the balcony. They also got chance to see New Kolkata with the limited time. They group travelled back to Ranchi by night train.
To conclude, the programme was well animated by the organising committee. It was well appreciated by the participants. The youth is motivated and encouraged to carry the SYM movement forward in the province.
Deepak Kindo SDB