By Marisol Becerra, Province Youth Ministry Assistant

(Bellflower, California) – From March 14-16, the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC) Spirit Team gathered at Camp St. Francis in Aptos, CA, for a weekend of formation, preparation, and faith, all in the joyful spirit of Don Bosco.

Friday set the tone with a warm Salesian welcome, community-building activities, and dedicated time for committee work, ensuring every aspect of SYLC was infused with intentionality and mission. The team also prepared for the SYLC Opening and Mass, recognizing these moments as powerful opportunities to animate the young. As night fell, the group entered into prayer through El Camino, reflecting on their personal faith journeys this Lent. The day concluded with a Salesian goodnight from Bro. Al, who shared his vocation story, reminding everyone that God calls us anew each day and invites us to respond with love and trust.

Saturday began with the Eucharist, the heart of the Salesian experience, celebrated by Fr. Marcos Castillo, with a homily by Deacon Damien Ho. The morning session focused on the art of animating prayer—ensuring that every moment of prayer at SYLC is not just routine but a transformative encounter with Christ. The day continued with committee work, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility. In the afternoon, the team reflected on situational leadership, hospitality, and the Salesian presence—core elements of creating a home that welcomes, a school that educates, a playground that brings joy, and a church that nurtures faith. The SYLC theme song was also chosen.

The evening was alive with the energy of the Chispa committee, as they practiced their activity, igniting conversations on ethical and social responsibility. This was followed by a check-in between the youth and adult Spirit Team members, fostering an atmosphere of accompaniment and mutual support. The night ended with prayer centered on meditation and imaginative contemplation, drawing the team into deeper trust in God. Mr. Adrian Fulay then shared a Salesian goodnight, encouraging the team to surrender their work to God, trusting that He is always the true animator of their mission.

Sunday the team gathered for Mass on the Feast of the Transfiguration, presided over by Fr. Fabian. The homily invited each person to allow God to renew and reshape their hearts in His love. The day concluded with committee updates and final preparations, as the Spirit Team left renewed in their commitment to accompany young people in the Salesian way—with joy, presence, and a heart filled with God’s love.

Throughout the weekend, the Spirit Team deepened their bonds, strengthened their mission, and prepared to lead SYLC with the same zeal and love that Don Bosco had for the young. With faith, family spirit, and joy at the center, they left ready to set hearts ablaze at SYLC 2025!