by Leander Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On the night of March 8th, Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS) Matunga organized its annual Way of the Cross, a profound spiritual experience titled Walk With Jesus. The event took place at Don Bosco Yuva Sanstha in Karjat, drawing 67 young people into a reflective journey of faith. Upon reaching Karjat, Fr Anthony Santarita shared a brief history of the place, highlighting how this Salesian home serves as a center for spiritual renewal and animation.

The Way of the Cross commenced at midnight, offering the youth an opportunity to deeply contemplate Christ’s suffering in light of their own struggles and challenges. Animated by the youth, each station included moments of silence, prayers, and meditations.

Through these reflections, the stations highlighted the struggles and challenges faced by today’s youth, drawing powerful parallels to Jesus’ Passion and His journey to Calvary. Each station was led by a different youth member, with a brief pause after each reflection for silent contemplation.

Some of the participants took on the symbolic act of carrying a life-sized wooden cross, nails, and a crown of thorns, physically embodying the suffering of Christ as they ascended the hill. The Way of the Cross concluded with a special blessing of the Relic of the True Cross.

Following the 15th station, the youth gathered for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by DBYS Youth Director, Fr Leon Cruz. In his homily, Fr Leon reflected on Jesus’ temptations in the desert, drawing a connection to the struggles that often lead young people into temptation. He urged them to recognize the forces that cause them to stumble and to seek strength in their faith to overcome them.

The Night Walk with Jesus was a moving and meaningful experience for the youth who participated, offering them a chance to deepen their faith and strengthen their connection with the Lord during this Lenten season.