By Cl. Swapnil Shelke for BISMumbai

On 9 March 2024, Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS), Matunga, in collaboration with various ecclesial youth movements of Mumbai organised a night vigil, ‘A New Dawn’. This engaging event drew over 300 enthusiastic youngsters from the city.

The event started at 8:30 p.m. with registration, followed by icebreakers and action songs, setting an energetic atmosphere for the night vigil ahead. The YU4C (Youth United for Christ) Band set the tone for the vigil with lively gospel songs. Fr Leon Cruz Ratinam, along with the DBYS youth, conducted an adoration service during which priests were available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. 

Ms Evlin Bosco and Mr Christo Benz from Jesus Youth Mumbai shared their testimony, adding a personal touch to the spiritual experience. This was followed by engaging group discussions, allowing the participants to plunge into their faith and share insights, based on the questions provided. The discussion ended with a meaningful dialogue and the exchange of ideas between the youth and a panel comprising of Fr Joyston Machado, Fr Mateus Jensen Didonet, Mr Immanuel Joseph, and Sr Florina Joseph.

The youth then recited the Divine Mercy Chaplet, after which Fr Vinod Mascarenhas offered a profound understanding of the teachings of the faith, enhancing participants with spiritual knowledge and understanding. After a short break, the vigil continued with the Way of the Cross, animated by the youth of the Missionary Families of Christ. They helped the participants reflect upon Christ's suffering and his rising as the new dawn of hope for all.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr Kelvin Sanctis, who in his homily spoke about how Jesus is the new sign for the redemption of mankind, and the rising sun which eradicates us from the clutches of darkness and evil. He concluded by saying, “Each of us is called to be rays of Jesus, which give happiness and joy.”

The programme concluded with Fr Leon Cruz Ratinam giving thanks to all those who took the initiative to make this event successful and with the release of his book ‘The Shepherd’s Dream’.