India - Chennai hosts a meeting of oratories and youth centres in the South Asia Region
Chennai, India – July 2024 – The annual meeting of the South Asia Region's oratories and youth centres took place on 19 and 20 July at the headquarters of the Salesian Province of Chennai. Thirty participants were present at the event, including Youth Ministry Delegates, Directors of the oratory, lay collaborators and the Vice-Provincial. The meeting focused on the study and evaluation of the updated document on oratories and youth centres by the Youth Ministry Sector at Salesian Headquarters in Rome, with the aim of strengthening the existing youth centres in the provinces. The event began with a Lectio Divina session on the miracle of the five loaves and two fish, which symbolise compassion and care for young people. Fr Patrick Gloria Alexander and Fr Patrick Lepcha led discussions on the importance and current state of youth animation in South Asia. Fr Ashley Miranda presented the key points of the updated document. Participants shared best practices and plans for various oratories and youth centres. Visits to significant sites, including St Thomas Mount and Don Bosco Vazhikaatti, provided insights into effective youth engagement and career guidance programs. On the second day Mass was celebrated , presided over by Archbishop Emeritus A. M. Chinnappa, SDB, then there were group discussions and formulation of action plans for the region. The meeting ended with a dinner and an evaluation at St Mary's Co-Cathedral, expressing gratitude to the Chennai Province for their hospitality and organisation.