Sandakan Youth Day gathers 197 young people

Anyone who believes that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, will gain knowledge of the truth, which sets us free (John 8:32) and leads us to salvation (1 Tim 2:4).

Sep 15, 2023

SANDAKAN: Anyone who believes that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, will gain knowledge of the truth, which sets us free (John 8:32) and leads us to salvation (1 Tim 2:4).

Fr Simon Kuntou said this at the closing Mass of the Sandakan Youth Day 2 or Temasya Belia Keuskupan Sandakan (TBK2). TBK2 is the largest youth programme in the diocese.

This second TBK brought together 197 youth from five parishes for a mission in the diocese from August 28 - September 1. It was held at St Joseph Parish, under the patronage of St Mary’s Cathedral, Sandakan.

Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom celebrated the opening Mass. In his homily, he emphasised to the youth to be like Mary who arose and went with haste to serve others. He said, the “spirit of haste” is what should be instilled in the youths so that they are always ready to serve others.

But in haste, Bishop Julius reminded the youth, “you should think of the pros and cons of your action, because the spirit of serving should begin with a clear mind to instil the seed of faith”.

He also emphasised that the spirit of serving should be sincere like Mother Mary. If you’re serving with an insincere heart filled with greed and not for Jesus, it can harm the Church, the community and even oneself.

Despite not being able to be with the youth at the TBK2 closing Mass, Bishop Julius apologised and prayed for them to continue to be witnesses of Christ.

At the closing Mass, some youth who felt the call to join the priesthood and the religious were asked to stand to receive a special blessing. Immediately after the speech, the procession of the icon of Mother Mary and the torch was held. This procession was symbolic as the host for the next Sandakan Youth Day would be announced — Church of the Holy Trinity, Tawau.

This five-day gathering has brought a very positive impact among the youth. Throughout the days, games and faith deepening sessions were held in the morning while noon time was filled with physical activities.

The organisers also provided space for counselling sessions by the religious and qualified counsellors.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation was also available during the Adoration, where the bishop and several priests gave absolution.