Good Friday at Camp Savio

Good Friday at Camp Savio: An Encounter That Began a Journey

(ANS – Bellflower, Calif. – April 7, 2026) - Nearly 200 young people gathered at St. Dominic Savio Church on Friday, April 3, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM for a Good Friday reflection organized by Camp Savio. What began as part of the regular Friday formation for summer volunteers became, for many, a profound encounter with God—and their first step back into a church setting.

Based in Bellflower, Camp Savio is more than a summer program. Rooted in the Salesian spirit, it forms young people as leaders while preparing them to serve during a 5-week summer camp. Formation for counselors begins each March, with weekly Friday gatherings focused on leadership and spiritual growth.

This particular evening was intentionally dedicated to reflecting on Good Friday and the personal relationship each young person holds—or longs to hold—with God.

The night unfolded with simplicity and purpose. After an opening moment of silence and reflection, participants divided into small groups and rotated through witness talks led by former Camp Savio members. Each testimony focused on a core dimension of Christian life: sacrifice, forgiveness, love, hope, faith, and trust.

The power of the evening lay in its authenticity. Justin, Lesley, JJ, Sam, Juanito, and Zoey shared not theories, but lived experience. JJ spoke about feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty and discovering unexpected growth through surrendering to God. Sam reflected on betrayal and the difficult path toward forgiveness. Others shared stories of learning to trust God in moments of doubt and disappointment. Throughout the evening, the church was marked by an unusual stillness. Nearly 200 teenagers sat in attentive silence. The absence of distraction spoke for itself—something meaningful was happening.

After the rotations, the group gathered for a communal reflection and night prayer. The evening concluded with a heartfelt “good night” message from Fr. Mike Gergen, who thanked the young people for their generosity and willingness to serve. He affirmed their importance to the community and encouraged them to continue seeking depth in their faith.

One question at the end revealed the deeper impact of the night: “How many of you have participated in a church service or event for the first time this week?” Nearly 80% raised their hands.

For most present, this was not simply another activity—it was an entry point. It highlighted a broader reality: many young people today do not immediately see church spaces as accessible or relevant. Yet when invited into environments shaped by peer witness, authenticity, and community, they respond.

In a culture shaped by digital noise and fragmented belonging, young people continue to search—often quietly—for meaning and connection. When pastoral initiatives meet them where they are, faith becomes not an abstract idea but a lived encounter. This evening was not improvised. Since December, 17 head counselors have been preparing thru a structured formation process designed to shape both leaders and meaningful experiences. Their preparation made this encounter possible.

As St. John Bosco is often paraphrased: “Love what the young love, and they will come to love what you love.” Good Friday at Camp Savio embodied that vision—not by imposing, but by accompanying. For many, the journey began on April 3.