Zamboanga City, Philippines. For three days, the Claret Lay Formation Center of Zamboanga City became a sanctuary of the Faithful and Hopeful hearts, serving as a home for the National Youth Day + Claret Youth Camp 2025 Re-Echo.
In this gathering, the Jovenes Claretianos were immersed in the vibrant and beautiful culture of the Bicolanos, greeting one another as each other’s Katood. More than just campers, they are called Pilgrims of Hope, walking together in fellowship and prayer. With almost 70 campers to count, they were divided into eight equally excellent groups, each named after the values and spirit of the Bicolanos: Magayon, Marahay, Maogma, Mahigos, Matibay, Mapinayaba, Madabong, and Madagos.
On a cloudy Friday afternoon, the youth arrived with excitement painted on their faces. An hour after their arrival, their 3-day journey unfolded solemnly with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Larry Miranda, CMF. Now with hearts blessed, the night kicked off with a powerful, welcoming energy. Laughter, applause, screams, and dances from the crowd filled the room, creating a joyful atmosphere. Moreover, on the first night, the young pilgrims had already had their first session led by Katoods Jade, Gerald, and Larry. Their talks centered on dreaming God’s hope and bravely put out their nets, which allowed the young people to reflect deeply and openly as they were given tasks that asked them to express themselves.
Saturday morning came, and awaiting the youth were sessions tailored for them. Who would’ve thought that by clapping, they were able to know how mentally healthy they are? That was how Dr. Mary Jane Galang, PhD. opened her session on Mental Health Awareness. She tackled common mental health issues that the young people experience: depression, anxiety, and bullying. She also gave self-help tools to help them push nervousness away. Following the first session was an inspiring and heartfelt message by Sr. Angie Vergara, ADC, who reminded the youth that they play a big part in the Church. Sr. Mashyll Entac of the Augustinian Recollect then began her talk by letting the youth sing the hit song Multo by Cup of Joe, capturing the idea of having the courage to do what you aspire to do, even when it’s hard to begin, rather than not doing it at all, and eventually becoming their “multo”. Afterward, the Jovenes were visited by the Claretian Missionaries all the way from Spain, Fr. Pedro Belderrain, CMF, General Prefect of Apostolate, escorted by Fr. Arvin Belen, CMF, the Prefect of Apostolate, and Fr. Amador Tumbaga, CMF, the Provincial Superior of Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Province. Each of them shared words of inspiration and gratitude to the young people.
After a long day, the night was ready for the Noche de Maga Claretianos. The young people had dinner with a boodle fight to set the vibes straight, digging in on festive and “masiram” foods. With tummies full and energy high, the youth wearing their best fits showcased their amazing and creative performances, filling the night with delight and joy. Ending the night on a right note through praise and worship. The youth have both rejoiced with how beautiful the rendition of the songs was, and sobbed hard with the way the songs touched their hearts and resonated with their experiences.
The last day started early as the youth were set to start their morning with the praying of the Rosary at the Heart of Mary Eco Chapel to bless their day as they were to put forth for a community exposure in the respective BEC chapels they were assigned to visit. The eight groups were merged, forming four big groups destined for the BAT Compound Chapel, Baliwasan Chapel, Sto. Niño Chapel and Canelar Chapel. In their respective communities, the pilgrims learned about the history and origin of the chapel. They were then tasked to catechize the young people to pray the Rosary, read the Bible, and engage in team-building activities, strengthening their bond and friendship. Despite the huge age gaps, their youthful spirits and enthusiasm united them, forming a deep and genuine connection built on love and faith. In the bright midday, the youth returned to the session hall and shared their experiences and takeaways from their journey. The camp ended solemnly with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by the Prefect of Youth and Vocation, Fr. Martin Ernest Ele, CMF. Acknowledging everyone’s efforts and achievements, the pilgrims were given their earned awards and recognitions.
The Re-Echo has been a camp to remember; indeed, one for the book. They welcomed new young people into the ministry, were given the opportunity to meet inspiring priests from outside the country, met with young people across BECs, and hand in hand praised God and thy Holy Mother Mary through graceful dancing of the Katood ni Ina, joyful singing of worship songs, and being one in Prayer. May they all remember that they are not alone in their journey, for Ina is with them, mga Katood.
By. Mary Divine Cuenta and Monika Alvarez
