By Luis Chacon
On December 2nd, the Provincial Youth Ministry Team gathered at Saint John Bosco High School, commencing the day with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by the Youth Ministry Delegate, Fr. Fabian Cárdenas.
The day commenced with a simple yet profound moment of prayer, setting the tone for the discussions that followed. Participants were invited to reflect on significant moments encountered with young people throughout the year, emphasizing personal highlights and preparing their hearts for the Advent season amidst the busyness.
The agenda progressed to a thorough review of the Job Descriptions for the CYMs of the Province, initiated by the CYM of the Youth Centers. The team collaboratively worked on creating, modifying, and updating these descriptions, addressing key points, and ensuring alignment with the goals of the Salesian mission.
Monica, the Coordinator of the Salesian Youth Ministry, presented “The Salesian USA West Youth Advisory Commission,” and how it consists of representatives from various Salesian works. This commission analyzes youth experiences and provides advice to province leadership, fostering understanding, progress, and improvement through quarterly meetings.
The spotlight then shifted to “Being a Prophetic Voice for the Young in the Margins,” led by Gina and Br. Al. They introduced a commission of expert advisors on youth realities, facilitating reflection on the needs of young people for provincial leadership. The team was presented with a list of experts and their resumes, concluding with an open invitation for further collaboration.
The next agenda item centered on the upcoming synod, as Fr. Fabian shared that the Rector Major, Don Angel Fernandez, had called for a synod with leaders from the Salesian Youth Movement. Two young leaders representing each province will be sent to Rome for this event. Fr. Fabian Cárdenas will be one of the two Salesians representing our region.
The team then delved into the responses received from young people regarding the synod’s preparation questions. These questions addressed enduring life dreams, societal dreams, dreams for the Church, and dreams for the Salesian Youth Movement. The participants of the Provincial Youth Ministry Team shared their insights on how they could support the youth in realizing their dreams.
One notable discussion focused on addressing taboo topics, such as politics and LGBTQIA+ issues, making impactful social and political statements, providing networking opportunities, ensuring transparency, and involving young leaders. Emphasizing Salesian roots, the team advocated for empowering youth through comprehensive leadership and service programs, community engagement, inclusivity, and inter-generational communication.
The team also shared the dream of Christiana, emphasizing the importance of a loving family embodying Salesian values, kindness, and advocacy for others.
Victoria then presented on “Youth Ministry and Integral Ecology,” sharing insights from a two-day seminar titled “Towards a Sustainable Future” organized by the Red América Social Salesiana. The seminar explored environmental significance, global solutions, and urgent actions needed for a sustainable future.
Fr. Fabian concluded the meeting by posing a crucial question: What can we do as a Congregation to contribute to a sustainable future, given the increasing focus on ecological considerations? The team acknowledged existing initiatives in various Salesian works but recognized the need for better articulation and socialization.
In the closing updates from the Salesian Youth Office, members were informed about ongoing programs and initiatives, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among the Salesian family.
The Provincial Youth Ministry Team meeting proved to be a rich and insightful gathering, highlighting the commitment of the Salesian community to nurture dreams, support the youth, and contribute to a sustainable and ecologically conscious future.
