by Ramona Crasto
KUWAIT, JUNE 14, 2018: Eighty Catholic youth from across Kuwait attended a fun-filled spiritual night that stretched from 8pm to 8am at Don Bosco School in Kuwait on June 7.
The night comprised of praise and worship, while also dealing with topics such as stress management, spirituality, healthy body, family, communication and time management.
The event commenced with a welcome note by spiritual director of Salmiya Parish Youth (SPY), Father Lionel Braganza. Father McEnroe Lopes, a visiting Salesian priest and the director of youth services of Mumbai province, was also present.
The youth were divided into various groups that presented different topics through skits and speeches. "The youth thrill was an event conducted with the purpose to strive to exceed expectations. The topics handled were youth-centric and relevant to issues and predicaments we have to face on a daily basis," Paloma D'Sa, a SPY animator, said.
"Even though the topics were heavy, they were executed in a lively, light and interactive way which really drove home the message. We collected feedback and all the participants were happy and asking for more of such programmes to be held."
Keynote speakers Priya Fernandes, Lloyd D'Souza, Christopher Pereira and Mercy Joseph gave lectures on topics like positivity, communication, time management and talent utilisation respectively. Staying awake at an overnight event was a challenge for Shawn Rodrigues from 'Everything is Possible in Christ (EPIC) youth group'.
"Just when I thought I might fall asleep after the delicious dinner, Mr Lloyd ignited the crowd with amazing vocal exercises and some life inspiring stories. The topics that were chosen and the resource people who shared their knowledge and experience personally has helped me to look at life with a different perspective. I pay my sincere gratitude to the organisers and members of SPY," Rodrigues, said.
Animators maintained the enthusiasm through games, action songs and short videos relating to the topics. The main highlight of the event was a short movie that was played as a part of the sermon during Holy Mass, celebrated by Father Braganza.
The event ended with the distribution of 'Exploring our Catholic faith', a book written by Bishop Camillo Ballin to every participant. SPY continues to inspire the youth through different events and encourages them to participate and be a part of the youth group in church.