Basilan, Philippines. The Claret Youth Ministry of Tumahubong and Maluso hosted the Claret Way Asia-East and Claret Youth Camp 2024 Re-echo from November 8-10 at Claret School of Maluso. This event marked a significant first for CYM Basilan, moving beyond individual parishes to unite 80 delegates from Claretian parishes across Basilan. Together, they celebrated their faith, strengthened their connections, and rekindled the Holy Spirit’s flame within them.
This year’s theme, “Spreading the Flame of the Holy Spirit,” honored the 175th founding anniversary of the Claretian Missionaries. The gathering opened with a Mass led by Fr. Jo Stephen Cagaanan, CMF, parish priest of Maluso, and was hosted by CWAE and CYC 2024 participants Ms. Hydie Misamis, Mr. Clymarc Cantay and Marlon Delante of CYM Guilinan. Ms. Justin Viaca, youth coordinator of CYM Tumahubong, officially launched the program, and the Ormoc team of CWAE and CYC participants energized the crowd with a vibrant performance of the theme song and lively animations. Ms. Angelita Caldamo, youth coordinator of CYM Maluso, then introduced the house rules and guidelines.
The first evening featured four insightful sessions led by Fr. Jeffrey Rasay, CMF, on understanding the Holy Spirit as the giver of life, its journey, its gifts and fruits, and the symbolism of the Spirit’s flame. As part of this reflection, each group received a torch symbolizing the Spirit’s presence. During a moving bonfire ceremony, they passed the torch among one another, offering prayers and receiving the flame as a symbol of the Holy Spirit’s love and warmth. For many, this was a tangible encounter with the Spirit.
On the second day, delegates attended a parish Mass celebrated by Fr. Ven John B. Porras, CMF, of Tumahubong, followed by a reflection on the previous night’s ceremony and the inner call of the Spirit’s flame. Fr. Jeffrey and Fr. Martin then led a baptismal renewal to honor the Spirit’s role in their mission. Following this, groups shared stories of how the Spirit’s flame inspires them, reinforcing a sense of shared faith and purpose.
A lively Claret Race was a highlight, challenging participants to apply Claretian teachings through fun tasks. The group from Our Lady of Assumption won, showcasing both enthusiasm and insight into Claretian values. That evening, pilgrims gathered for an exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Taizé prayers, and confession, deepening their spiritual journey through reflection, reconciliation, and the support of Claretian priests. The night ended in fellowship with praise and worship led by the Ormoc participants, uniting everyone as one Claretian family.
The final day began with a rosary and concluded with a closing session encouraging everyone to let the Spirit’s flame shine as a light of hope. Delegates then created action plans to carry the event’s lessons forward. The closing Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Martin Ele, CMF and certificates were awarded to delegates, leaders, and organizers in recognition of their dedication.
The Claret Youth Camp 2024 and Claret Way Asia-East Re-echo achieved its goals of inspiring Claretian youth to spread the Spirit’s flame, fostering personal growth, and reinforcing the Claretian Youth Ministry Family’s unity. The spirit of St. Anthony Mary Claret’s mission was alive in this gathering.
Padayon Claretians!
By: Ardine Kate Perez
