By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Amrutdhara, Kapadwanj, organised a three-day SYM Youth Seminar for the youth of the Gujarat region from November 9 to 11, 2026, with the theme “Dasha Ane Disha” (Challenges and Direction). Around sixty young people from neighbouring parishes participated in this enriching programme of personal growth, faith formation, prayer and fellowship.

The seminar was inaugurated on November 9 at 10:30 a.m. in the presence of Fr Robert Pen, Vice-Provincial of the Mumbai Province; Fr Ashwin Macwan; Br Tony; and Fr Pravin Macwana, Rector of Don Bosco, Dakor. The inauguration was marked by the symbolic release of a special rosary into the sky, after which Fr Robert Pen formally declared the seminar open. In his inaugural address, Fr Ashwin Macwan welcomed the dignitaries, resource persons and participants.

The first day focused on self-discovery, identity and hope. Mr Shailesh Christi conducted an insightful session on identity, social media, competition and loneliness, focusing on the question, “Who Am I?” Mr Rajesh and Ms Pinkey Christian dealt with failure, fear, disappointment and despair, highlighting the importance of hope and perseverance. Fr Pramod conducted the evening session on “Self-Discovery and God's Unique Plan”. The day also included animated games organised by Fr Vinay, Deacon Sanjay and the volunteers.

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr Robert Pen, who encouraged the young people never to give up in the face of life's difficulties. He shared an inspiring example of a local youth who overcame struggles and achieved success. In the evening, Sr Monica and her team organised a meaningful rosary service in which each participant placed a lighted lamp around a large rosary, symbolising the light and hope present in every young person.

The second day began with a creative meditation by Sr Monica Macwan, FMA, on the theme “The Way, the Truth and the Life”. Mr Stivan Roy conducted an interactive session on mobile phone addiction, pornography, substance abuse and negative influences. This was followed by Mr Michael Paul, who presented Jesus as the Way, Guide, Friend and Saviour. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr Pravin Macwana, who highlighted the challenges faced by today's youth and the importance of proper guidance and values. Later, Fr Dinesh Vasava conducted an interactive session on “Finding Purpose and Direction in Christ”, using group activities to help participants discover their purpose in life.

The evening provided an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharistic Adoration, offering the young people a meaningful experience of prayer and spiritual renewal. After supper, a musical evening was organised, with each team presenting a value-based performance. The day concluded joyfully with Garba dancing.

The third day began with a meditation by Fr Vinay Ganawa on “You Are the Light of the World”. He encouraged the participants to become a light in their own lives, families, society and the world. Mr Shailesh Christi and Ms Preeti Rathod conducted a session on love, friendship, family, loneliness, personal boundaries and forgiveness. The final session was jointly conducted by Fr Ashwin Macwan and Mr Shailesh Christi on “Leadership, Service and Witness – Be the Light”, inspiring the youth to become responsible leaders through service and Christian values.

The concluding Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr Michael Bansode, Provincial Councillor. In his homily, he presented Christ as the first missionary sent by the Father and recalled Don Bosco's missionary spirit. He encouraged the young people to become missionaries of Christ in their families, communities and society.

The seminar concluded with a formal closing ceremony. Fr Ashwin Macwan delivered the vote of thanks, followed by prize distribution, felicitation of the resource persons and sharing of experiences by the participants. The youth leaders expressed their gratitude to Fr Ashwin Macwan for taking the initiative to organise the seminar and congratulated him on the occasion of his jubilee celebration.

The three-day seminar was a meaningful experience of learning, prayer, fellowship and personal transformation. It helped the young people understand the challenges of modern life and discover the right direction through faith in Christ.

The central message of the seminar was clear: Face life's challenges with courage, walk with Christ, serve others and become a light for the world!