by Father McEnroe Lopes
MUMBAI, DEC 14, 2017: Salesian Youth movement (SYM) organised a mega-youth event entitled SYMBIOS, with the theme of Health, Harmony, Holiness at 
the Don Bosco School, Matunga on December 9 and 10.
The first day of the event was reserved exclusively for juniors, whereas the senior youth participated on the final day. Both days began by invoking the blessings of the Divine after which the participants reflected on the theme with meaningful presentations through skits, dances and mimes. They enlightened everyone on the importance of good health, living in harmony and one's call to holiness by doing ordinary duties extraordinarily.
The participants then took part in workshops conducted on various themes. The Red Ribbon association focused on Health, the Blue Ribbon movement on Harmony and AVEC Mumbai on Holiness. The interactive workshops focused on developing healthy food habits, choices one needs to make to be an instrument of peace and harmony and uplifting one's life.
Participants put their creativity to test by participating in theme- based activities like rangoli, clay modelling, best out of waste and painting. A lively beat of Zumba proved the energy and joy of being young. The event concluded with the presentation of the SYMBIOS souvenir to all participating Salesian communities.
A highlight of SYMBIOS was the presence and testimony of Father Tom Uzhunnalil, who celebrated the holy Eucharist for the senior youth on the second day. The youth were inspired as they listened attentively to Father Uzhunnalil's testimony about faith, bravery and perseverance. The youth also were given time to interact with the visiting priest.
Father Uzhunnalil made headlines world-over after terrorists held him captive for over a year in Yemen after they stormed a Missionaries of Charity home in Aden and killed 16 people, including four Missionaries of Charity sisters. He was finally released from captivity on September 12 this year.