Reconnecting young people into the life of the Church

Apr 15, 2016

PENANG (Herald Malaysia): Over 170 Catholics from across Malaysia gathered for Callback Camp Eleos, which was held at St Anne’s Church, Bukit Mertajam. Organised by Callback LIT (Leaders-In- Training), the weekend programme was designed for those who have received the sacrament of Confirmation.

The theme, Eleos, which is Greek for mercy — was chosen in accordance with Pope Francis’ announcement of the extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.

A total of 179 participants, 69 of whom are university or college students, took part in the camp. While most of the participants came from Penang (specifically the island), Callback Camp Eleos also welcomed participants who came all the way from Johor, Kedah, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Perak.

One of the highlights of the camp was the open worship, held after the opening of the Door of Mercy at St Anne’s Shrine. Also organised by the Callback LIT, 200 attendees praised and worshipped our God non-stop for almost three hours. During this time, Bishop Sebastian Francis dropped by to take the stage, addressing the crowd there.

Sessions by in-house speakers Stephen Rodrigues and Leoreen Heah Rodrigues, as well as guest speakers Fr Martin Arlando, Belevendiran Joseph, and Andre Ong inspired the participants to not only be informed, but also to exhibit mercy, just as mercy has been shown to us by the Father.

Simply put: with mercy comes a mission. And with a mission comes ministry in the church. This is the essence of Callback Ministry, which was formed in December 2012 with the aim of reconnecting post-Confirmation Catholics into the life of the Church. Be it through the Callback camps or gatherings, there is a great emphasis on the true joy of being a part of a community who aspire to grow in faith and support each other, especially through the challenges of young adult life. -- By Anne- Marie Khor

TESTIMONIES

“This camp taught me many great things. For the first time in my life, I’ve experienced God in a different and unusual way. This camp gave me, and others (I’m sure of this), reassurance in our lives, that in Jesus, there is only victory, never despair.” -- Kevin Raj

“Throughout this camp, I not only enjoyed myself but also felt the Lord’s presence. It was very peaceful and wonderful. I also feel much better as some of my burdens have been lifted up to the Lord. I also felt the power of His love during the praise & worship sessions. It was one of the best moments of my life.” -- Gabriel Marks

“I have gone through an immense amount of healing and I finally found peace with God. The speakers were awesome. It was an unforgettable journey. Love this camp, can’t wait to come back next year.” -- Elisha

“I came for healing, but I got more than that. I had been lost for a very long time but now, I remember what my faith is all about. To remember God’s love and mercy for His children is something that I needed. I’m inspired to bring what I have learnt about Gods mercy back to the CSS (Catholic Students Society) in my community.” -- Marrlene

“I have attended many camps before and they were all the same. However, this one was different. I got to know God better and I felt the strong presence of God. I’ve gotten the answers to many questions that were running through my head before this.” -- Cally

“God has touched me in so many ways that I’ve never experienced before. This camp made me feel His presence and love.” -- Anon

“What I have learned in this camp is priceless!” -- Leon Joshua

“In this camp, I got to experience God very closely and I felt His touch. The worship session was beautiful and empowering and the presence of God was so strong. This really helped me connect with my Awesome God. Now, I’ve been set free. Thank You Jesus.” -- Alyshea

“I experienced God in so many different ways that words can’t describe. The highlights at this camp for me were the session on St. Anne’s Hill and the Saturday night praise & worship. Releasing and letting go of all my worries on the hill was just beyond words. I felt a sense of calmness. Praise & worship taught me a lot. It helped me worship and love God more.” -- Mary Anne

“Thank you for helping me find what I wanted the most in my life. Throughout the past couple of years, although I was very active in ministry, I never did feel that I was doing enough for God. As time went by, I started to lose my faith and began to go astray. For a long time I was lost, not knowing which way to turn. When my cousin invited me to join the camp, I hesitated, as I was unsure of what I would gain. Now, I have found my way back and I found my calling. Truly, I have been called back.” -- J.C.D.

“From this camp, I learnt the true meaning of being in a community with God. I felt the presence of God.” -- EJ

“I’ve been in ministry before, but I felt like I’ve grown very distant from God ever since I furthered my studies. This camp really brought me back. I got to praise again which I missed a lot since I left my hometown. I know I am renewed and I was reminded that His mercy renews every day.” -- Alvin