Last May 31, 2024, Fr. Ramil V. Maranan, SDB, the Salesian Youth Ministry Delegate of the Philippines North Province, led an insightful Youth Group Seminar for the Lay Mission Partners on the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The seminar was a rich exploration of various themes vital to our mission.

He began by delving into the life and spirituality of St. John Bosco, providing us with valuable insights into the foundational principles that guide our work with youth. Drawing from Don Bosco's example, he emphasized the importance of compassion, empathy, and dedication in our ministry to young people.

He introduced the PRIMER of SYM, a comprehensive framework designed specifically for Lay Mission Partners like us. This primer serves as a roadmap for building a cohesive movement that involves Salesian Educators in youth groups and establishes connections between sectoral youth groups and the institutional Youth Group. He underscored the universality of our mission, emphasizing that whether we are within or outside the institution, we are all called to minister to the young with love and care.

During the seminar, he also shed light on the recent National Assembly Days (NADs), where Youth leaders from different provinces in the Philippines came together to address pressing social concerns affecting young people. The Manifesto that emerged from these gatherings serves as a testament to our collective commitment to advocating for the welfare of youth and actively participating in efforts to address their needs.

Lastly, he discussed the attitudes of Youth Group Animators and Moderators, highlighting the PRIME principles of Popular and Ecology, Rooted in Christ, Integral and Synodal, Missionary and Vocational, and Empowerment and Participatory. He emphasized the importance of placing the young at the center of the Educative Pastoral Community (EPC), ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.

In conclusion, the seminar provided valuable insights and inspiration to continue our mission of accompanying and empowering young people. It reminded us of our profound responsibility as Lay Mission Partners to be advocates for youth and agents of positive change in our communities.

Thank you, Fr. Ramil for facilitating this seminar for Lay Mission Partners of Don Bosco Mandaluyong!

by Ms. Jane Lansang, DBTC Pastoral Office