Discover God’s love and mercy through his teachings

Apr 22, 2016

SG ARA: A confirmation camp by Martin Jalleh was held March 11-13 for the Forms 4 and 5 students of the Church of the Divine Mercy (CDM).

This camp gave the youths the opportunity to know the ways in which they can continue to grow in their faith as well as the spiritual challenges they will eventually face in the outside world, away from the comforts of home and family.

The parents gave their support by handling all the food arrangements and serving as chaperons at night. The camp was conducted in the spirit of openness. Each participant was encouraged to express his/her feelings without prejudice or fear. It began with Jalleh asking each one to let others know how they perceived their world. Opinions ranged from “perfect” to “complicated”, “depressing”, “stressful” and “a roller coaster ride”.

Jalleh emphasized that the world is forever changing and that they need to understand that often, parents do not like the change and will maintain their old ways to protect their children. He stressed that parents will be the ones who will always be there for them, no matter what the circumstances. It was imperative for them to cherish who they are and the importance of self-awareness and self esteem in living their lives. Later, many of the participants remarked that they realized their strengths and appreciated themselves and the gifts God had given them.

In another session, the participants were told that God had everything and had no need of them, but He created them out of His love for them. They were guided through a biblical reflection to discover God’s love and mercy for them through the Catholic Church’s teachings. In a group dynamics session, they participated in activities that required them to cooperate with each other non-verbally. They were also asked to carry out some activities that showed the very nature of human behaviour in avoiding embarrassment and fear when put under scrutiny or in a position of responsibility.

Many found the healing session meaningful because it gave them a chance to forgive others, and themselves, to move forward in their lives. The most lively session was on Christian sexuality and Boy-Girl relationships. As there were a few participants where one parent was a non- Catholic, much debate was also generated on the complications and support on the often confusing direction of the faith development of their children. Martin reminded them of their commitment as confirmed Catholics and the importance of the works of Mercy in their lives. At the end of the camp, the participants were engrossed in reading the affirmation notes left by their now close friends.

At the parents’ session, Jalleh explained to them that the world is in constant change. As parents, they need to know when to rein in and when to let go. He provided the analogy of flying a kite. We all want our kite (child) to soar but it will not if we just keep on reining in the string. He cited some observations of the behaviour of their children, much to their surprise that this was so obvious in the short time he had with their children. He explained the fears and challenges faced by their children and stressed the importance of positive affirmation in their children’s lives.

It is hoped that this motivating camp would encourage greater participation among the youth towards activities in church as it is the safest environment for the children to grow spiritually.