CYM Meeting 2023

By Mrs. Amy Stockinger, Program Coordinator, Province Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry

(New Rochelle, NY – November 1) – From October 25-27, 15 coordinators of youth ministry gathered at the Don Bosco Retreat Center in Stony Point, NY. There was representation from almost every work in the province from British Columbia to Florida.

The meeting began with a day of retreat led by Fr. Thomas Ruekert, SDB. His two talks centered around the Eucharist— “Food for the Journey” and the “Five Gestures of the Eucharist.”

On the second day, Fr. Abraham Feliciano, SDB, presented a talk on the educative pastoral community (EPC) as a way to “Make the House a Family for the Young.” In the afternoon, Fr. John Serio, SDB, presented “Don Bosco Today”— how to be a Salesian today for the young.

On the final meeting day, the office of youth and young adult ministry shared some opportunities for collaboration between the province and local works. Last, there was time scheduled for small group discussions on youth ministry best practices.

Throughout the meeting, there were also moments for daily Mass, adoration, Reconciliation, prayer, shared meals, a Salesian “escape room,” and bonfire socials.

Thank you to the CYMs, presenters, and Don Bosco Retreat Center for making this meeting such a blessed experience. Many thanks also to the Marian Shrine community for allowing us to use their patio for our nighttime socials!