It has been one of my dreams to attend the National Youth Day. Finally, after years of waiting, God revisited an old prayer and granted this desire a few weeks ago. I was one of the thousands of youth who gathered in the Diocese of Caceres to celebrate and deepen our faith. What a joyful sight to see so many young Catholics loving and serving the Lord!
Seeing God so alive in the presence of the countless delegates I witnessed in the NYD made me more hopeful as a missionary. One heartwarming encounter that stood out for me is the generosity and genuine service of our brothers and sisters in our host parish. We were warmly welcomed in Saint Mary Magdalene Parish in Bula, Camarines Sur. A simple town yet made so vibrant by their fervent faith. They shared their stories, homes, families, and devotion to us. Our host family, Tita Maria and Ate Toinete, took care of us as if we’ve been part of their home for a long time.
The more we immerse into their parish, the more that I was able to see how strong their faith is. Even in times of calamities, their faith and love for God did not waiver. And I hope to have the same faith as theirs. They inspired me to live out my life as a Catholic with joy, hope, and generosity. They moved my heart to be dependent on God and no one else.
What a privilege it is to be surrounded by hopeful and faithful people! And what amazes me even more is that despite the multitude of people and eventful days during the NYD, God spoke to me personally in my quiet moments with Him. God met me there in the middle of the crowd of young Catholics. Then I realized, God loves us through the people He sends to us.
During the National Youth Day, God sent thousands of His image to show to me that He is true, good, and beautiful. The faith is alive. Hope is alive!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ate Azenette Samsom. A Fulltime Pastoral Worker assigned in Visayas.
