(ANS - Madrid) - The members of the Salesian Youth Movement taking part in the WYD met in the late morning of Saturday 20 August at Carabachel. Before setting out for Cuatros Vientos (formerly an airfield) with Mother Reungoat the SYM presented its pledges for the future.

Coming from the various places where they were staying, the various SYM delegations taking part in the WYD met at the Salesian community Carabanchel, Madrid. Here, along with the FMA Superior General, Mother Yvonne Reungoat, Fr Fabio Attard and Sr Maria del Carmen Canales they took part in a brief celebration of the Word before setting out on foot to Cuatros Vientos to join the vigil with the Pope

A summary of reflections made during the Mini Forum held Wednesday morning, 17 August at the CES Madrid was presented during the celebration. The Mini Forum had involved youth from 50 countries, accompanied by 50 Salesians and Salesian Sisters. A list of pledges were presented to Provinces by the various delegations.

• Have more regular meetings as SYM in order to know and help the young people of the area.
• We want to offer an all-round education and improve the quality of our environment.
• We will create groups and communities that can support young people in critical situations, and so accompany them as they progress in Christian life and faith.
• Reach out and go to where the young people are and not just wait for them to come to us.
• As the SYM, we will cooperate more with society and rediscover the meaning of being upright and committed citizens, and also offer social opportunities.
• We will foster more contacts with people in poor countries and give the young leadership roles and opportunities for volunteer experience.
• Grounding in faith, forming small prayer communities and  training and involving lay leaders 
• We will help newcomers to the country to fit into society and find their way to God
• We will create a sense of belonging and strong ties, will foster a happy Catholic way of life through everyday spirituality, and reinterpret and deepen our understanding of Salesian Youth Spirituality
• We will evangelise beyond the usual Salesian settings through witness, service and deep knowledge of the Lord.

Published 20/08/2011