3982_Jubilee of Mercy – Teens Carnival

April 26, 2016

By Ms Kiko

Hong Kong, April 24, 2016 - The Jubilee of Mercy Ad Hoc Committee of the Hong Kong Diocese in collaboration with the China Province organized the Jubilee of Mercy – Teens Carnival on 24 April 2016. Although it rained cats and dogs on the day, God really blessed the event and the youth. There was only little rain and even sunshine at the peak of the event. We were really impressed that in the prayer session leaded by Cardinal John Tong, there was completely no rain. Totally there have been around 1300 youth shared the joy of this special carnival of Jubilee of Mercy.

The Aberdeen Technical School was completely permeated with diversity of game, snack and workshop booths. Free ice-creams were provided which represents the traditional festival atmosphere of Salesian spirituality with the young. Most of the game booths focused on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. It had been a very good opportunity to teach the young some practical knowledge and actions that can be put into practice during the year of Jubilee of Mercy.

Although the weather was not satisfactory, the stage kept having music and juggling performance. These were the elements that Don Bosco used in his oratory and now inherited by all his followers. These elements drew the attention of the youth to stay in front of the stage, encouraged them to dance and to listen joyfully, though the rain remained. This makes obvious one thing very important: “Do not be afraid” of the weather on the youth.

After the sermon, Cardinal John Tong encouraged the youth with St. Luke wrote in the gospel saying that Jesus advanced in wisdom and age and favor before God and man. Especially in this Jubilee year, we need to open the door of our heart, to receive the love of God. Then, we have to imitate this love coming from God and to love those around us.

Even the whole event was under rain and wind, Auxiliary Bishop HA, Chi-Shing Joseph still felt the joy and energy of the youth. Bishop Ha invited all of the youth to live the faith of God. We won’t be afraid when we rely on His mighty and therefore we can face the unknown future courageously.