By Ms Angela Fernandes for BISMumbai

The Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS) Mumbai, held an overnight walk at the Don Bosco Yuva Sanstha, Karjat on 17 February 2024. 60 young people joined in the event.

After having assembled at the Shrine of Don Bosco’s Madonna, Matunga, at 9 p.m., the group started their journey with a prayer. During the journey, the youth mingled over games, sang praise and worship songs, and recited the Rosary. 

On arrival, everyone was given refreshments after which they started the mountain-top Way of the Cross animated by Fr Brian Boothello SDB. Many carried along wooden crosses and wore metal crowns of thorns to help them empathise with Jesus at his Passion. At every station of the cross, there was a significant expression, asking each present to examine and evaluate themselves under one’s view, to be a judge of one’s character, keeping Jesus’ struggle at the center of their minds. The prayers that followed asking for repentance and forgiveness, were a holistic way to get closer to the Lord.

Once the walk was over, it was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by  Fr Cletus D’Souza SDB which left a lasting impact, hours after it even ended. The choir helped the youth sing devotionally and helped them immerse in the liturgy of the First Sunday of Lent more fully. After the Mass was over, everyone interacted and bonded over their experience from the walk, sought blessings from the priests, took pictures together, and had a delicious breakfast.

One of the young people who attended the walk said, “I wasn't really into the spiritual mood. I was overflowing with thoughts and whatnot. But, looking at people fervently praying and them experiencing something personally, I sensed togetherness and acceptance through this.” 

Ms Sydelle Mascarenhas added, “Experiencing the Stations of the Cross by carrying crosses, nails, crowns, and lanterns throughout the walk was a profound and reflective journey. This allowed me to connect with the events of Jesus’ Passion, giving me solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of faith through this devotional practice.”

The youngsters thanked the priests and headed on their way back home with amazing memories and hearts full of compassion, love, and belonging.