Duaca, Venezuela – March 2025 – On March 8, 110 young people from the youth centers of Domingo Savio (Duaca), El Tostao, Madre Mazzarello, Maria Auxiliatrice, and San Vicente, all part of the Integrated Zonal Team of Lara (EZIDEL), gathered for a Lenten retreat titled “A Time for Encounters.”

The event was led by Fr. Jorge Bastidas, Delegate for Salesian Youth Ministry, who guided the participants in deepening their spirituality and encounter with Christ during Lent—a season of reflection and preparation for Easter.

Held at the Domingo Savio Youth Center in Duaca, the retreat was attended by the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and the Daughters of the Divine Savior. Through moments of reflection, prayer, and sharing, the young participants strengthened their faith and commitment to the Salesian community, following Don Bosco’s legacy of dedication to youth.

The retreat concluded with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Bastidas, who urged the young people to slow down amid modern life’s speed and distractions, embrace silence to listen to God, and disconnect from their phones to foster meaningful interactions.