Salesian Youth Spirituality on "The Way"

NCYC 2024
Salesian Youth Spirituality on “El Camino/The Way”

(ANS – Long Beach, Cal. – November 27, 2024) – The Salesians of Don Bosco were present at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC), Nov. 14-16, at the Long Beach Convention Center. The team comprised representatives from the 4 SDB and FMA Eastern and Western provinces of the U.S. and Canada. By consistently meeting and planning, the team created a vision for the Salesian presence at NCYC 2024, incorporating the theme “El Camino/The Way.” Salesian youth spirituality was reflected through activities organized in the Salesian exhibit booth, the examination of conscience in the Sacred Space, and the workshop sessions presented by members of the Salesian Family.

The Salesian Family: Session Speakers

There were 2 speakers from the Salesian Family on the NCYC program. Dr. Juan Carlos Montenegro, who accompanied by young people from St. Dominic Savio Parish, where he is the CYM, presented a breakout session on “Bridging the Gap Between Generations.” The talk was engaging and made an impact on his audience. It was an inspiration to witness young people speaking about uniting generations and becoming rooted in a love for the Eucharist. Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, FMA, presented a breakout session titled “That Your JOY Be Complete: Living a Joyful Life!” Her presentation was about finding joy in ordinary life, and the young people were able to learn about and appreciate the Salesian charism. Sr. Elfie will also represent the Salesians next year in Indianapolis as a master of ceremonies for NCYC 2025.

The Exhibit Booth & Sacred Space

The youth ministry offices USA East/USA West (SDB) animated the exhibit booth with all who worked alongside them from the 4 provinces. Seeing young people stop by the booth and engage with Salesian youth spirituality through activities, face painting, reflections, and meaningful conversation was a joy. Each interaction strengthened a young person’s sense of our charism and brought them closer to St. John Bosco.

The booth was separated into five activities representing the 5 components of Salesian youth spirituality. For example, for joy and optimism, we had games, face painting, and a reflection asking young people, “What brings you joy?” Most prolifically, using the 2024 Strenna, we collected dreams from young people. Our booth was filled with youth dreams ranging from connecting with Christ to being successful in school. The Province Youth Ministry Team will celebrate the Eucharist for all the youth’s dreams and pray over their intentions in the month of December.

The Salesians were asked to incorporate further the components of Salesian youth spirituality in the Sacred Space at NCYC. The examination of conscience that led young people to confession was engaging and encouraged youths to reflect on their everyday lives. The Sacred Space was brought to life with candles, cloth, greenery, and items that incorporated the theme of “El Camino.” It proved successful in allowing young people a moment to connect with God and prepare for the sacrament of Reconciliation.

“We look forward to seeing young people and their leaders again next year in Indianapolis, Indiana, for NCYC 2025, where Sr. Elfie will be as one of the two MCs,” Victoria Figueroa, Salesian Youth Movement coordinator, finally stated.

Fr. Eddie Chincha, at left, from Port Chester, N.Y.
with youths