The Jubilee of Mercy Ad Hoc Committee of the Hong Kong Diocese in collaboration with the China Province organized the Jubilee of Mercy – Teens Carnival on 24 April 2016. Although it rained cats and dogs on the day, God really blessed the event and the youth. There was only a little rain and even sunshine at the peak of the event. We were really struck by the fact that during the prayer session led by Cardinal John Tong, there was absolutely no rain. In all there must have been around 1300 youth who shared the joy of this special carnival of the Jubilee of Mercy.
Aberdeen Technical School was filled with a variety of games, snacks and workshops. Free ice-creams were provided in keeping with the traditional festival atmosphere of Salesian spirituality with the young. Most of the games focussed on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. It was a very good opportunity to teach the young some practical knowledge and actions that can be put into practice during the year of Jubilee of Mercy.
Although the weather was not satisfactory, the young people were entertained with music and juggling - elements that Don Bosco used in his oratory and now inherited by all his followers. These attractions drew the attention of the youth in front of the stage, encouraged them to dance and to listen joyfully, even though the rain remained.
In his sermon, Cardinal John Tong encouraged the youth with what St. Luke wrote in the gospel when he said that Jesus advanced in wisdom and age and favour before God and man. Especially in this Jubilee year, we need to open the door of our heart, to receive the love of God. Then, we have to imitate this love coming from God and bring this love to those around us.
Even though the whole event took place under rain and wind, Auxiliary Bishop HA Chi-Shing Joseph still felt the joy and energy of the youth. Bishop Ha invited all of the youth to live the faith of God. We won’t be afraid when we rely on His might and therefore we can face the unknown future with courage.
