The gathering was organised by EAO Region representatives to the world SYM council, Teaghan Dolan (AUL Province) and Janine Nicole Quinto (FIN Province), together with the assistance of Fr Vince (FIS) and Fr Joebeth (EAO Delegate for SYM). Beginning at 12 Noon Rome time, young people joined from all over the world – and a different point in the day, beginning with an opening prayer from Jennifer - Youth of INA. Following the prayer, Joan – Youth Lead of CIN, shared a message of welcome to the audience, emphasising the ongoing disconnect and struggle many communities are facing, but the light our Salesianity and faith gives us in these times.

The theme for the formation gathering was Connections 101 – connecting with self, with others, and with God, and this theme was expanded on through the presentation of Fr Brian (AUL Youth Ministry Delegate), who gave a presentation outlining the important events and experiences throughout ST John Bosco’s life which enabled him to form such strong connections in his spiritual and personal life. After hearing from Fr. Brian, the group broke into smaller language groups to meet each other, discuss their reflections on the theme, and how they in their own life nurture these important connections.

Following the small group sharing, the group gathered in the ‘main room’ to comment on what their groups had discussed and shared, before a Salesian Goodnight was given by Fr. Vince, followed by a closing prayer led by Takahiro and Yuuka – Youth of GIA.

The formation gathering was a great success, being the first of its kind since the initiation of regional and world SYM groups during 2021. Thank-you to the many people who contributed, both during and prior to the gathering, as well as those who gave their time and skills in allowing the event to be simultaneously translated in 4 languages (Josè Alex, Paola Farfan, Dieu Donne) to enable greater participation.

Teaghan Dolan, SYM LEADS EAO

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