By Leander Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On October 25 and 26, the Salesian Province of Bombay witnessed a vibrant gathering of 286 youth and Salesians at Don Bosco, Matunga. SYMBIOS is a celebration of the Salesian Youth Movement. The youth came from the different states of the Province which included Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Months of planning and preparation culminated in two unforgettable days lived out under the inspiring theme: “Young Pilgrims of Hope.”

The event commenced with lively icebreakers in the evening. Participants were grouped in various t-shirt colors which even had different quotes of saints on it. In the evening celebration, Fr Leon Cruz, the Youth Delegate of the Province shared insights on understanding the Salesian Youth Movement. This was followed by the grand inauguration ceremony, officially declared open by Fr Ashley Miranda, the Provincial of the Salesian Province of Bombay (INB).

The evening came alive with cultural performances, where groups showcased their regional heritage through skits, dances, and songs. As night fell, the youth gathered with t-lights and banners of Mary Help of Christians and Don Bosco for a rosary procession in the campus, which was led in multiple languages. The procession concluded with an Adoration service, animated by the youth from Gujarat and Pune alongside the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Throughout SYMBIOS, a special “Tent of Hope” was set up for the youth to seek confession or counseling. The first day concluded with a heartfelt Goodnight talk by Fr Mylin Noronha who highlighted how St John Bosco transformed his weaknesses into strengths for his mission with the young.

The second day began with nature meditation in groups, a time for reflection led by Salesians and animators in the morning calmness. After breakfast, the participants attended two interactive workshops of their choice, led by expert facilitators which covered topics like Praying with Art by Joynel Fernandes, Modern Lifestyle & Nutrition by Greta Fernandes, Reel to Real by Fr Joyston Machado, Entrepreneurship by Royal D’Souza, Skills for Life by Shirley Coutinho and Faith Tested by Fire by Fr Ivan D’Souza.

During the mid-morning break, a Cultural Exchange took place, where youth showcased and shared their local sweets and souvenirs with the new friends they had made, joyfully interacting with each other’s cultures. Across the two days, the youth enthusiastically shared their memories and reflections on a Padlet wall, posting pictures, messages, and creative expressions that captured the true spirit of SYMBIOS.

Post-lunch, the volunteers led the youth in games, jam sessions, and interactive activities, filling the atmosphere with joy and energy. The two-day celebration culminated with the Holy Eucharist in the Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna. In his message, the Provincial reminded the youth that they are loved by God and called to be a young pilgrim of hope.  As the event came to a close, hearts were filled with gratitude, carrying forward the spirit of Don Bosco to live with faith, joy, and hope in every step of life’s journey.