On the weekend of February 15 and 16, the young people of the Youth Ministry of St. Anthony Parish and the future Pastoral Area of the Divine Holy Spirit in the city of Salgueiro, in the northeastern region of Brazil, experienced a profound moment of retreat and fellowship . During this transforming experience, they were able to share experiences, strengthen their pastoral and personal mission, and renew their faith journey. It was a time of reunion with God, the Good Jesus of Joaquina de Vedruna.
The meeting began on Saturday afternoon, when the young people, gathered in community, contemplated together the magnificent sunset. This moment of communion with nature prepared their hearts for the evening program, which became even more meaningful. In the evening, a dynamic of personal encounter took place, guided by two essential questions:
What is my mission?
What is my role in this world?
After a moment of interiorization and inner listening, the young people returned to the large group to share what had welled up in their hearts.
The spirituality was intensified with the song “O Mesmo Rosto”, by Jorge Trevisol, which served as inspiration for a profound moment of mysticism and light. The song brought to reflection the need to be light and encouragement in the personal and pastoral mission of the youth. Despite the challenges facing young people today, it is essential to seek the true meaning of life, nourishing hope and faith.
Sunday was marked by a more intimate contact with nature, allowing the participants to appreciate the beauties of the “sertão” (semi-desert area) with a contemplative gaze. This moment awakened ecological awareness and reflection on the importance of protecting and caring for the Common Home, recognizing in it the manifestation of divine love.
As a symbol of the meeting and all that was experienced, the young people received the bracelet of the Vedruna Youth Mission of Haiti, a sign of belonging and commitment to the youth. This symbolic gesture reinforced the vocation of each one, reminding them that in the simplest things of life the touch and love of God is always present.
Álvaro Danilo da Rocha Santos, youth animator
