Tampin parish hosts Youth Empowerment Camp

Dec 01, 2024

Jennifer Junita Franklin
The youth from Tampin gathered for a transformative Empowerment Camp at the Church of St John Marie Vianney from November 1-3. The enriching programme brought together 35 participants, including matriculation students from Kuala Pilah and Gemas, alongside local youth, for an immersive spiritual experience.

The camp provided a vibrant platform to deepen their faith, nurture devotion, strengthen community bonds, and delve into the essence of Catholic teachings and spiritual relationships.

The camp commenced with registration, followed by Saints’ Day Mass, which featured a solemn procession in honour of the saints. That evening, participants joined the “Puji Sembah” session, a time of heartfelt praise and worship, before engaging in ice-breaking activities. The day concluded with evening prayers, creating a reflective and spiritual atmosphere for the activities to come.

The second day began with morning prayers, followed by small group spiritual discussions. Participants then participated in the All Souls’ Day Mass at a local cemetery, walking t h e re while collecting litter along the way as an act of environmental stewardship. This activity highlighted themes of eternal life, care for creation, and service to the world. Bro Charles Borromeo delivered an inspiring talk on Vocation and Ministry in the Catholic Church, reminding the youth that every baptised individual is called to witness Christ’s love. Drawing from Mary’s example of unwavering faith and submission to God’s will, Bro Charles encouraged the youth to embrace ministry and reflect Christ’s love through their lives.

A session led by Fennedy Finjau explored the role of advocacy among Catholic youth. He emphasised that advocacy is not only a reflection of living faith but also a powerful means to address pressing issues such as human rights, social justice, and community welfare. Fennedy urged the youth to become voices for the marginalised and to integrate G o s p e l values into their efforts for societal change.

The final day began with the Rosary and Mass, culminating in a mission blessing to send the youth forth with renewed faith. Throughout the camp, parish priest, Fr Albet Arockiasamy, delivered a series of reflections centred on Jesus’ message in John 10:10 about living a full and abundant life. He emphasised the importance of testimony, love for others, adherence to God’s law, and prayer, encouraging the youth to follow Jesus’ commandments and the example of Mother Mary.

Fr Albet also highlighted the interconnectedness of ecology, the Church, family, and society in Christian service, urging the youth to become agents of love and care within their communities.

With 35 participants, the camp successfully deepened their faith, inspired a sense of mission, and empowered the youth to become catalysts of change, spreading Christ’s love, justice, and compassion within their communities.