Discovering self and God at Persons Are Gifts programme

Feb 22, 2025

MELAKA: Thirty-nine youth, mainly from the Church of St Theresa, and other parishes in Melaka, attended the Persons Are Gifts (PAG) programme held in the church grounds. Originally put together by the late Fr Ignatius Huan while he was based in the parish in the late 80s, the PAG programme has continued to touch hundreds of lives ever since.

The PAG typically caters for 12 to 15-yearolds. The three-day, two-night live-in programme is an opportunity for young people to discover themselves and others as gifts. Using the analogy of the gift, participants learn that the person is more important than appearances and that people come in different shapes and sizes, with their own unique characteristics and gifts.

The whole PAG weekend was packed with sessions facilitated by Jason Joseph, Annabel Loh, Madeline Melkis, Eugene Wong and Chloe De Costa and involved learning from small group sharing, Scripture reflections, community-centred activities, fun games, worship music, prayer, and lots of affirmation and love. Through the sessions, participants recognised their gifts, talents, and the people in their lives who are gifts.

Feedback from the Participants:

“During this camp, I’ve learnt and realised God’s love for me, even if I have sinned, He still loves me. I’ve learnt about unity and to have more joy. Not only that, my faith for serving the Lord has also increased.” --Josiah Aeden

“I learned that God loves me unconditionally, regardless of my actions. God has a plan for my life.” --Shanellia Klazeena

“Through this camp, I’ve learned how to pray more; how to talk to people with confidence and love the people around me.” --Micheal Patrick

“I learned more about myself as a person and how I view others. I enjoyed Talent Night the most. I also enjoyed the games as it was fun. I made lots of new friends too. Overall, it as an enjoyable camp.” --Donald Lee

“During camp, I enjoyed the fun and meaningful sessions and activities. I also made many friends and got closer to God. I even got to open up with my group and it felt safe to share with them.” --Emma Emmanuealla

“Throughout this camp I’ve learn many things from the sessions which taught me that each and every one of us, including family members and close friends, are gifts given by God and that these gifts should be shared with each other. I met many new friends and shared new memories with them while having fun at the same time.” --Hayley Pauline Ong

“I’ve learned many things about myself and how I am with others around me. I’ve also discovered my talents and my personality. Most importantly, it has deepened my faith and showed me that I can have fun while praying and expressing my faith.” --Luke Maalan