SHARING THEIR EXPERIENCE

Mar 27, 2015

“YLC-4 is a youth leadership programme, the first one I attended, which has benefitted me tremendously. The two sessions that touched me were Walking with my Cross and I am Enough. In the first session, the pauses and reflection during the Way of the Cross made an impression on my own journey as a youth. In I am Enough, I saw my deficiencies which made me aware of my own weaknesses. If I wrote down all my strengths and weaknesses on paper and reflected on myself, I realize that I am not perfect. But with the encouragement that was given to me by Sr Anna Teresa, I have become stronger and this has given me belief in myself. What I have learned is to accept my weaknesses, to be patient and work harder to better myself.” -- Jornalius Francis Sales (Youth Leader, Telupid Parish)

“Initially, I had no interest in attending the YLC-4. I was there as a substitute for a member who could not attend. But when the session Walking with my Cross began, my ideas about the programme began to change. I realized that I had to change my attitude because I had to wake up as early as 4.00 am with a torch that would not work! A session that resonated with me was called I am Enough where I could reflect on my own weaknesses and learn to accept them. Another session that was connected to my own life journey was conducted by Mrs Teresa Sebastee called Pure Heart, and it was about repentance. I am a person who finds it hard to forgive. Yet, during my sharing session I found my heart melting. I am ready to forgive those who have hurt me before. I realize that I have to accept myself as I am. Finally, to carry my cross will not be easy but nothing is impossible with God!” -- Veronica Hamzah, (Youth Leader Sandakan Parish).

“I am thankful that I was given the opportunity to share my experiences during YLC-4. For myself, what affected me was Walking with my Cross. At each stop, there was a reflection. What struck me the most was the stop at the 4th Station when Mary saw her tortured son. During the reflection I found some connection within my own family. I could really relate it to my own life and the reasons behind my behaviour because I am a little naughty. I also have family problems. I often felt pressured so I doubted God. This situation continued until I participated in YLC and through the activities, I had the opportunity to reflect upon my past. I am determined to change and not go back to my old ways. During the session I am Enough, I realized that, as human beings we are not perfect. Yet in God’s eyes, we are, because we are made in His image. At that moment, I realized that I should be thankful for all His gifts. For example, through YLC-4, I can strengthen my faith as a Catholic and have friends who accept me as I am. I hope that more youths will take the opportunity to participate in YLC programmes. Thank you and God bless.” -- Sherlie Stella Doket (Youth Leader Tawau parish)

“In the beginning I could not understand what was so great about YLC-4. Previously YLC had outdoor games and that attracted me to participate in this programme. On the second day, there was the session Walking with my Cross. I was excited because it was something new. The session I am Enough, it made me want to help others for Jesus’ sake. In addition, the programmes were well planned and was exactly right for the youth.” -- Sunny Souza Sylvester (Youth Leader Sandakan parish.)

“The session I am Enough was what affected me. I felt sad nearly all the time especially during the short performance that was put on by Valentine Tony’s group from Telupid parish. The performance stayed in my heart and reminded me of the friends I had left behind at the chapel. It also showed me that I was only thinking of myself and that it has been a long time since I had served in Church. I feel that this is what God is trying to tell me. What I learned from the YLC-4 programme is that I must not leave God and be my own person and I should not blindly follow others. Thank you for conducting the YLC-4 as it showed me the way to Christ.” -- Marney Ambrose (Youth Leader Telupid parish.)

“Peace be with you! Throughout the five days participating in YLC-4 at St Martin Parish, I learnt how to be a better leader. This is the second time I have participated in such a programme. The sessions that touched me were Walking with my Cross and I am Enough. In Walking with my Cross, I shared with my friends, during reflection, some of what I had gone through. “Sharing is Caring” that was our motto in serving. In I am Enough, I learned how to recognize my own self, and at the same time, build up my own faith and confidence in myself. I was very touched by the sermon given by Fr Jasery on service and leadership. He encouraged us, as youth leaders, to take the opportunity to study hard to renew ourselves so as to be able to confront the reality of life for the youth today. I also made new friends and we are ready, like Isaiah to answer God’s call, “Here I am, Use me.” -- Paulus Kopong (Youth Leader Sandakan parish.)

“My heart opened during the session Seeing God – Joy of the Gospel, which was conducted by Fr Sunny Chung during the YLC-4 programme. I was unable to attend the programme wholeheartedly because of other commitments. Yet, I am thankful that I was able to participate, even if it was towards the end of the programme. In the session, Seeing God, I found out about evangelization and the reason for God’s presence in the world. Despite the little knowledge I gained at YLC-4, it has made enough of an impact for me to continue serving in the Church. I will use the experiences that I gained in my own parish. YLC-4 made me want to get closer to Jesus because before this, I was very far away.” -- Yulita Maslan (Youth Leader, Lahad Datu parish).

“This programme increased my confidence as a youth leader and I was inspired by the youth leaders who were sent. At the same time, I also made new friends. I was affected by the sharing sessions because I can understand the problems that my friends are facing. I learned that I should accept myself as well as those around me. I felt God telling me, “Go and speak about me to all the nations.” I am ready to accept this mission, to bring the Good News that I have received. Praise the Lord!” -- Avleneia Patrick (Youth Leader Sandakan parish.)

“Peace be with You. This YLC is a continuation of the previous YLCs. YLC-4 provided me with a definite answer to the question “Am I fit to be Called?” I can now answer, “Yes! I Am.” All the programmes in YLC-4 were closely linked to myself, especially the session I am Enough. In this session, I was able to look back and to look at myself before I can lead others. I was touched in a session where I met Sr Anna and was able to share with her my problems and shortcomings. I am very thankful because what she told me made me believe and have faith in myself. A small voice inside me kept saying, “Yes, I am Enough.” I know who I am in God’s eyes; I am special and now, I am brave enough to say, “Here I am Lord. Use me.” --Roynner Patrick Assang (Youth leader Sandakan parish.)