Medellin (Colombia), 15/09/2017, Interprovincial Youth Vocation Ministry Team.- The Second Interprovincial Meeting of Presentation Youth, resulting from the work done by the Interprovincial Vocations Team of Youth Ministry, took place in Colombia the days of September 7 to 10, and within the spirit of the visit of Pope Francis. More than 150 Presentation Youth participated along with Sisters from the five Provinces of Colombia.

Presentation Young: ‘Take the risk for Christ! Take the firsft step!’

The Meeting opened with words from Sister Ángela María Vélez, Provincial of Medellin, who encouraged the young to follow the invitation of Pope Francis, “don’t let yourself be deprived of neither joy nor hope.” “Don’t fear the future! Dare to dream big!”.

During the gathering the Preparatory Document for the upcoming Synod, Youth, Faith and Vocational Discernment, was presented and reflected upon by means of learning strategies and dynamics through which the young people could give their input and their understanding of their personal experiences. All of this affirmed in them their faith and their trust in the processes of formation in their communities. On the evening of Friday, September 8, the group participated in the Vigil, before the Papal Mass at the Olaya Herrera Center, an experience that provided much learning to the young and to the Sisters who gladly kept vigil in the expectant joy of receiving the blessing of Pope Francis at the Eucharist on Saturday, September 9. The Holy Father invited us to live three attitudes to mark our lives as disciples: to look for what is essential, to renew oneself, and to get involved. The young took these words to heart in view of their growth in discipleship.

On Sunday, there was the evaluation of the meeting with open floor for the young to express their suggestions, their teachings and gratitude towards each of the Sisters who accompany them in their Youth Communities. Next, (after this) followed the Eucharist of sending forth and each participant was given the Cross as sign of commitment and of the road of discipleship. We thanked Sister Angela María Vélez, Medellin’s Provincial Superior, for her warm welcome, kind gestures and the organization of the meeting. Provincial Governments were also recognized and appreciated for their support and trust. Special thanks were expressed to the Sisters Coordinating the Pastoral of Youth in the five structures, for their perseverance, dedication and commitment to the Young people.

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