3rd Penang Diocesan Youth Day launched

Nov 12, 2014

By Brenda Julianose
A rush of joy and excitement spread through the grounds of the church and the hearts of all present as participants registered themselves for the day’s event. Some 470 young people and adult Youth Ministers across the Diocese of Penang arrived at St Anne’s Sanctuary as early as 7.30a.m, all set and eager to witness the launching of the Third Penang Diocesan Youth Day (PDYD 3). As soon as the participants were registered, they proceeded to have breakfast at the Sanctuary’s Green Hall. Needless to say, participants were already relaxed and mixing around with youths from other parishes.

The event of the day began with a praise and worship session led by several committee members and youths from the PDYD 3 host state, Perak.

A thought-provoking and moving input entitled “The Calling of St Peter” given by Fr Martin Arlando, Head of Penang Diocesan Youth Network (PDYN) set the tone for the whole event for it was linked to the theme for PDYD 3, Blessed are the Pure in Heart, for They Shall See God (Mt. 5.8). The stories and videos presented were simple and yet informative for everyone. A young person, when asked after the talk what he could remember, answered that “we should not have excuses if we truly want to follow and be a disciple of Christ.” Throughout the whole session, Fr Martin had no problem holding the attention of the audience. His session concluded by reaffirming God’s invitation to each and every one present to hear His call because He is faithful to those who follow Him.

Mass was celebrated by Bishop Sebastian Francis with Msgr Bernard Paul, Fr Martin Arlando, Fr Henry Rajoo, Fr Martin Then and Fr Andrew Stephen concelebrating. The homily started off with the Bishop requesting all present to stand and spend a minute of silence in respect for the youths in Hong Kong who are courageously standing up for democracy and speaking up for justice. Bishop Sebastian Francis then went on to elaborate on the significance of this dual celebration: The Launching of PDYD 3 and the anticipation of World Mission Sunday. Both events were about sending the young people on a missionary journey. The first is a year-long preparation towards the main PDYD 3 event which is filled with prospects for love and service to others; and the second, is the send-off to all baptized Catholics, young and old for a mission! Thus, one day before the actual Mission Sunday, the young people underwent the “Rite of Sending” by coming forward to bless — themselves with the sign of the Cross with non-sacramental oil. This gesture signified their willingness to accept the mission. After that, each received an envelope containing a checklist of missionary acts in the language of their choice and a crucifix.

The Launching of PDYD 3 followed with a short video clip of PDYD 1 and 2 while paying tribute to those who have organized and participated in them. Fr Martin reminded the young people that this joyful celebrative journey from the first Penang Diocesan Youth Day and now re-ignited at St Anne’s Church, Bukit Mertajam will continue to be celebrated at parish and deanery levels all the way to the actual PDYD 3 event in Perak Deanery next year, 2015.

The PDYD 2 Main Organising Committee led by Simon Joseph and Martin Wong handed over the banner to the current organising committee led by Vincent Joseph. This was then unfurled by Bishop Sebastian to reveal the beautiful new design for PDYD 3. Lastly, the PDYD cross and icons of Our Lady and St John Paul II were brought in from various parts of the church and were assembled in the presence of all the participants. It was quite an emotional scene because this is our time and we are involved!

After lunch, the youth leaders from each parish gathered at the auditorium for an orientation by Vincent Joseph, in the presence of Fr Martin and PDYN staff. PDYD 3 kits, banners and posters were distributed. Vincent explained how the youth should go about the formation sessions and celebrations at the Parish and Deanery levels in preparation for PDYD 3. The leaders were also assured of the support and assistance of the Deanery Level Committee throughout the whole journey. While the leaders were busy getting information and clearing their minds of whatever uncertainities they had, the rest were entertained with activities by Vernon and Mary Ann of Butterworth, professional team-builders. The fun-filled activities culminated with each parish presenting their cheer.

The final event for the day was the beginning of the journey when the PDYD Cross and icons were handed by the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) to the parish of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Butterworth. It will travel around the whole Northern deanery before moving on to the Penang Island Deanery and lastly, to the host Deanery of Perak. It was another touching moment as we sang “Give Thanks” just before the Final Blessing. We thank the Lord indeed for everything that happened, especially for the overwhelming response from the youths at the Launching of PDYD 3.