Quezon City, Philippines. From November 29 to December 1, 2024, CYM North embraced the opportunity to hold the CYC + CWAE 2024 Re-Echo at Claret School of Quezon City, with the theme “Spreading the Flame of the Spirit.” This camp served as a sacred space for the youth to rekindle their faith, reignite their spirits, and be reminded of the divine mission entrusted to them. The three days brimmed with sessions and activities while participants were guided as they deeply reflect and embrace their purpose. What seemed like an impossible task, bringing the heart of a 10-day Ormoc CYC + CWAE 2024 into three days, blossomed into a living testament of God’s divine plan and infinite grace. What seemed impossible was made possible, not through human effort alone, but through the Spirit’s movement, weaving a plan far greater than imagined. Though the camp lasted only three days, its impact extended far beyond, sending the youth forth with a renewed mission to ignite their communities with the flame of the Spirit.
Rev. Fr. Ama Tumbaga, CMF, opened day 1 with a Eucharistic celebration, preparing hearts to embark on a life-changing three-day camp. Rev. Fr. Jay Coching, CMF, started the first session as he introduced and blessed the “Holy Ground,” inviting participants to walk barefoot as a symbol of humility and readiness to receive the Spirit’s flame. Through his moving words, Fr. Jay guided the youth to reflect on their life’s challenges and embrace acceptance. The day ended with a bonfire activity, symbolizing the passing of the flame, and marking the beginning of their mission. As the sun rose, the campers joined the 6:30 am daily Mass at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Dodong Cleofe, CMF, rooting them in God’s grace to embrace a day filled with purpose and meaning. Guided by Ate Lovely Rosos, Kuya Charles Julian, and Kuya Vince Abrigonda, they gained a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit’s presence in their lives, sharing personal reflections within their groups. Camaraderie and teamwork then flourished as participants creatively acted out stories and further strengthened bonds during the lively Claret Race in the afternoon. As dusk settled, the grounds were sanctified through the exposition, Taizé, and confession, immersing everyone in a holy atmosphere. To conclude day 2, the worship team led the whole camp into a night full of praises, adoration, and thanksgiving. Day 3 commenced with a Holy Rosary, followed by Kuya Charles’ final session which emphasized the Holy Spirit’s mission for the participants as they return to their respective communities. Concluding the final day was an awarding ceremony and a Holy Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Martin Ele, CMF. Through his heartfelt homily, he encouraged the participants to view the Claretian Youth Ministry not as an organization but as a family—where every Claretian youth may call it his/her home.
The three-day camp unfolded as a testament to the beautiful power of faith and community. Hearts were set ablaze with the Spirit’s flame, kindled through prayer, reflection, and shared experiences. Each moment, from walking barefoot on holy ground to the reverence of Taizé and Eucharistic adoration, wove threads of humility, grace, and belonging into the fabric of their journey. As they departed, the campers carried with them not only cherished memories but also a renewed mission to bring the Spirit’s light to their communities. Truly, the Claretian Youth Ministry proved to be more than an organization—it was a family, a home, and a beacon of God’s love that will forever burn brightly in their hearts.
By: Dane Randal Rosales
