Guwahati, 18th July 2023: The Don Bosco Youth Animation (DBYA) in collaboration with the Province of Guwahati recently organized a significant event, the Vocation Promotors Meeting. The meeting spanned three fruitful days, from 14th to 16th July 2023, and was hosted at Don Bosco Institute (DBI), Guwahati. The event garnered praise and appreciation, and sincere thanks were extended to Fr Januarius Sangma SDB, Provincial; Fr Joseph Terron SDB, Vice Provincial; and Fr Marcus Lakra, the youth ministry delegate of Guwahati Province, for their remarkable efforts in ensuring the event’s success.
During the meeting, several essential dimensions of youth ministry were discussed, with a particular emphasis on the Vocational Dimension, which was hailed as the crown of youth ministry. The participants recognized the significance of all four dimensions – Education and Culture Dimension, Education to Faith Dimension, Vocational Dimension, and Social Experience – and emphasized the need for them to function cohesively as a team rather than in isolation.
One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the importance of encouraging and promoting vocational guidance in schools. The vocational guidance team under the Salesian Provincial Conference of South Asia (SPCSA) was recognized for its efforts in offering job placements and awareness to young students about various vocational opportunities.
In a bid to adapt to the changing times and reach a wider audience, the participants also discussed leveraging the power of social media to promote Salesian vocation in their establishments. They recognized the potential of digital platforms in connecting with young minds and encouraging them to explore their calling.
Furthermore, to ensure a more structured approach to youth empowerment, the participants resolved to create an Educational Pastoral Community (EPC) and a Salesian Educational Pastoral Plan (SEPP). This comprehensive plan would encompass the vocational dimension, enabling a more holistic and cohesive approach to the development of young individuals.
Recognizing the value of collaboration and collective learning, the meeting also highlighted the importance of networking among vocation promotors. By sharing ideas and experiences, they aim to enrich their understanding and effectiveness in guiding young people towards their vocations.
The opening talk, delivered by Rt. Rev. Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil DD, SDB, set the tone for the meeting. He inspired the vocational guidance team to be relentless in promoting vocation across all facets of life. The Archbishop encouraged them to assist young individuals in discovering God’s plan for their lives, empowering them to make meaningful and purposeful choices.
The Vocation Promotors Meeting was a resounding success, setting the stage for enhanced youth empowerment and the nurturing of vocations. With renewed determination and a unified approach, the Salesian community seeks to guide the young generation towards a future filled with purpose and fulfilment.
(IND Webmaster and Fr Romeo Gaisinpou SDB)
