India – SYMBIOS 2022: Self, World and God

25 October 2022

(ANS – Mumbai) – On 21 and 22 October 2022, 380 youth from across 29 Salesian institutions of the Province of Bombay participated in SYMBIOS 2022 at the Don Bosco Matunga campus.  The theme of this event was the theme of the Strenna ‘Do all through Love’. The topics that were touched upon were represented by the acronym ‘SWAG’ which stands for ‘Self, World, and God’.

All the youth enthusiastically took part in the Eucharistic celebration presided over by the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, that evening in thanksgiving for the canonization of Saint Artemide Zatti. The eco-campfire organized in the evening witnessed a wonderful display of a variety of programmes by the youth from various Salesian institutions, each highlighting values related to the topics of the event: Self, World and God.

Early next morning, the popular gospel band 'Echoes of Zion' enthused the hearts of the young people with their heart-thumping music and melodious singing, lifting the spirits of all participants. After breakfast, input sessions were held pertaining to the theme. Ms Ridhima Pandey, a well-known climate activist from Uttarakhand who was invited as the resource person, shared her life story, arousing in the youngsters the zeal and the need to do their bit in helping protect Mother Earth. Mr Denzil Rodrigues gave a session on ‘Financial Management’ and explained how young people can smartly and efficiently buy shares in the stock market. Psychologists from Don Bosco Prafulta, Andheri, held various discussions on the topic of ‘Care for Self’. 

This was followed by an exhibition of dance forms highlighting the various cultures of the Province and the lively dialogue of the Rector Major with the young people.  The Rector Major joined the youth for lunch, and his kind gestures and availability, reaffirmed the statement he made: ‘We Salesians exist because of you, my dearest young people.’

The concluding eucharist on the 22 October was presided over by the Regional Councillor for South Asia, Fr Biju Michael. In his homily, he highlighted that everyone was special and precious in the eyes of God, and therefore it is the duty of every person to bear good fruit.

Team building and fun tele-games were also conducted according to the various institutions. In addition, a lively and energetic Zumba session was held, which made the youth dance actively without inhibitions. It was an unforgettable time for the young people at SYMBIOS 2022, to showcase their talents and potential, and celebrate the Don Bosco way with the young.

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

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