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On the 16th & 17th of August, 2024, Fr. Robert Simon, SDB, from the Province of Tiruchy, led a workshop for 32 brothers (young clerics-Both Practical trainees & Students) of the Hyderabad Province on Salesian Oratory and Youth Centres, focusing on Youth Ministry through the lens of Christus Vivit. Drawing from his extensive experience, Fr. Simon emphasized the importance of a youth ministry that is vibrant, inclusive, and deeply connected to the realities of young people today. He highlighted how the Salesian approach, with its emphasis on creating a welcoming and joyful environment, aligns with the vision of Pope Francis in Christus Vivit to engage youth meaningfully and guide them in their spiritual and personal growth.
Fr. Simon shared several poignant anecdotes from his ministry, highlighting moments where the Salesian approach has made a significant difference in the lives of young people. These stories underscored the transformative power of love, patience, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of youth, principles that are at the heart of Christus Vivit. He shared stories of how creating a welcoming and joyful environment has helped to draw young people closer to the Church and fostered their spiritual and personal growth. He addressed the challenges of modern youth ministry, such as the influence of social media and the needs of marginalized youth, and provided practical strategies that have proven effective in his work, such as engaging youth through sports, music, and creative arts, and the importance of building personal relationships with them.
The workshop was a profound experience for the 32 brothers, who left with a richer understanding of youth ministry, inspired by both Christus Vivit and the lived experiences of Fr. Robert Simon. His testimony reinforced the importance of being present in the lives of young people, providing them with opportunities to grow, and guiding them with the wisdom and compassion modeled by St. John Bosco. The brothers left the workshop inspired to implement these insights in their own ministries, ensuring that their work continues to make a lasting impact on the youth they serve.
