DUGMANON QUASI-PARISH CELEBRATES YOUTH DAY 2024

On 6^th day of July 2024, the Dugmanon Parish Youth Apostolate gathered and joyfully celebrated the Parish Youth Day at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Quasi Parish, Dugmanon, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur under the resounding theme, “Paglambo sa Pagtuo ug Pagserbisyo: Kabatan-onan sa Pagbag-o ug Paglaum”. This one-day activity was participated in by almost 100 delegates coming from the three districts.

The program commenced with a Eucharistic Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Cristito Rey P. Tepace, OAR, along with Rev. Fr. Mark R. Saludes, OAR and Rev. Fr. Jay Parilla, OAR. After the mass, the program proper started. Rev. Fr. Cristito Rey P. Tepace, OAR, delivered his welcome message. He highlighted the true essence of service – that it is not about merely participating and doing rituals of the church but also doing good deeds such as helping the needy. He also encouraged everyone to work with unity and to pray towards love, peace, and harmony of the community and of the world. “…mga kabatan-onan sa Parokya, kamo ang paglaom sa simbahan. Padayon kamo sa paglambo ug pag serbisyo. Mag amping kanunay ug pag-ampo kamo alang sa kalinaw sa atong katingliban ug sa kalibutan…”, Fr. Cris, said.

An informative talk on Mental Health Awareness by Dr. Emelie S. Viola, MD. RN. FPSMS, followed thereafter. She tackled mental health disorders – anxiety and depression, leading to a serious and dangerous suicidal attempt. She also discussed the factors affecting mental disorders and things on how to cope them. Dr. Viola presented an exercise called Tai Chi. This exercise helps release the anxiety. Delegates were asked to perform the meditative movements. Having a mental disorder is not so easy. Thus, Dr. Viola reminded the youth to always be mentally healthy amidst life’s challenges and adversities, to be open, and to not hesitate to seek for help to trusted people such as family, teachers, close friends, priests, and doctors if there are any symptoms. Furthermore, she inspired everybody to be a refuge for someone – to help friends with mental disorders.

Bro. Dorin G. Igsoc, an OAR college seminarian, graced the youth through a talk on Vocation in the afternoon session. He elucidated the Vocation, its different types, and its general purpose which directly led the youth to a clear and deep comprehension. Bro. Dorin shared his great and meaningful experiences inside the seminary, and he gave a quick virtual tour of the Casiciaco Recoletos Seminary (CaReS) in Baguio City through a video presentation.

The activity became more vibrant, meaningful, engaging, and fun as participants were grouped for team building. This part of the celebration was one of the most awaited parts of every delegate. They courageously faced and surpassed every challenge in the game. Through this activity, delegates established the spirit of camaraderie, empowered unity and created precious memories.

Tree planting activity is the especial activity of the Youth Day Celebration. Delegates showed their love and care for nature as it is one of their responsibilities as stewards of God’s creation. They planted trees within the premises of the Church with the hope that all of them will grow and will contribute a big impact on the environment. After the tree planting, all delegates received a certificate of appreciation for their active participation.  

The Parish Youth Day Celebration was a huge success nurturing a sense of solidarity and optimism within the community. It emphasized the Parish’s dedication to fostering the development of its youth providing them opportunities to grow and thrive.

“…the purpose of such a day is to foster a sense of community, faith and belonging among the youth. To nurture their spiritual, social, and personal development. This activity was one of the best. I’m Forever grateful for the responsibility given to me as a parish youth leader. Thank you to everyone behind this success, especially to Rev. Fr. Cristito Rey P. Tepace, OAR, as our active and supportive Youth Director. To the youth, may we continue to carry the torch within us, to be the light of the world, to be the hope of the word, to be the change, and to spread God’s love…” Marivel A. Geduquio, Parish Youth Leader, commented.

Truly, the Youth Day Celebration has left an indelible mark on everyone. Delegates went home full of pride and spirit to make a difference in the Parish and beyond.