(ANS – Cracow) – In the studentate of theology of Cracow, from May 11-13, about 700 children and young people from the South of Poland took part in the 22nd “Savionalia”, an annual event, promoted by the Salesians of the St. Hyacinth Province of Cracow (PLS), which is a festive commemoration of St. Dominic Savio.

The motto for this year, inspired by the advice of Don Bosco to the young saint, was “Be cheerful!”. The youngsters took part in various events and discussions about their interests, on what makes them happy and what they can learn from others, concluding that “being happy” means loving yourself, loving others and the world.

Conferences, group work, theatrical and film festival, musical workshops, craftwork, photography, dance...were only some of the choices offered to the young participants. On the stage set up In the courtyard of the studentate several music groups performed, among them was the “Love Store” band, which, with its Christian rock, was the main attraction of the evening of Saturday, May 12th. Among the other stage activities there several illusion games, and some reflections on the value of volunteering, including missionary volunteering.

The Saturday was closed with the traditional “Good Night” given by Fr. Dariusz Bartocha, the Provincial of Cracow. Referring to the motto of the event, in a simple and direct style, the Salesian Superior spoke about the true joy which comes as a gift of the Holy Spirit.  Fr. Bartocha said: “To be happy means to organize your life in such a way that you can always see the true horizon: God is the true joy!”

Among the team games which most engaged the youngsters there was the “City game”, a game which has the whole city as its scenario. This year, the first year of preparation for the Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco, the boys and girls tried to follow the footsteps of Don Bosco present in the city and at the same time to get to know better the history and monuments of Cracow. The “Dominic Tournament, carried out in the area of the stadium, showed  the great creativity of the organizers.

The youngster also had the opportunity for prayer, daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and Reconciliation. Special mention is due to the Sunday Mass on May 13, presided over by the Councilor for North Europe, Fr. Chrzan, during which 9 young volunteers received their missionary crosses in view of their departure for their respective destinations.

The activities of Savionalia 2012 concluded with prize-giving for the winners of the various competitions and a spectacular floral ceremony.

Thos who could not attend the event were able to follow on Facebook and on the website set up for the purpose.

Published 15/05/2012