China Bay, Sri Lanka. In a celebration of faith, community, and youth empowerment, the “Claret Way” youth gathering for 2023 was recently held from March 11-12, 2023, at St. Anthony’s Church in China Bay, Sri Lanka. The event was attended by 48 young people from five Claretian parishes, including Balleketuwa, Mallavi, Pampaimadu, Aligambay, and China Bay, and participants from Colombo and Chilaw regions.
The gathering began with a Lenten talk, followed by Way of the Cross, Adoration, and Confession for the youth. The Claretian Youth Movement (CYW) also had its annual meeting, during which the new office bearers and administrative body were formed for the smooth functioning of the Claret Way youth movement. Special thanks are extended to Fr. Xavier Anton Devaseelan, CMF, the parish priest of China Bay parish, and Dea Selexon for their diligent arrangements.
Following the program, the CWY team also had its first plenary meeting to discuss plans for the year 2023. The outgoing coordinator for the last three years of CWY, Fr. Mariyathas Renald Ruban, CMF, and Sr. Geraldin Sashirekah, RMI, the jubilee celebrant of the 25th religious profession, were also felicitated by the Claretian Youth. The celebration marked a wonderful gesture of giving shape to CWY according to the Charism, thanks to Fr. Ruban for his faithful and active service as coordinator of CWY.
The Claret Way youth gathering was an inspiring testament to the Claretian mission of building community and empowering young people to become active and engaged members of their communities.
Source : Br. Carlos Verga, CMF, General Prefect of Youth Ministry and Vocations
