(ANS - Krakow) - From 9 to 11 May about 1200 young people from twenty-three Salesian houses in the Province of Krakow, including some from Ukraine, participated in the twenty-third Savionalia at the Salesian theological college in Krakow.  This is an annual event organized to mark the feast of St. Dominic Savio.

The motto this year,  the final year of preparation for the Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco, is Holiness to measure. The young people participated in several events, all incorporated into an overall programme  called Stokrotka (Daisy). It is a festival of theatre and film, with a competition of sketches and exhibitions, including a photo exhibition called  Boska FOTA,  a competition of religious poetry and poems on John Paul II, a race through the city streets, a Sunday tournament in honour of Saint Dominic Savio and concerts,  including a much anticipated one by the group  New Day which is very popular among young people.

The spiritual programme was well prepared, with daily Eucharist, opportunities for Confession, Eucharistic adoration and other times of prayer and reflection.

The central conference was entitled "Can you be holy if you are young?"  It was given, not by a Salesian, but by a Capuchin. He explained to the young that holiness consists in a continuous effort of conversion, which becomes possible by the grace of God who is merciful and forgiving. He wants us to be with him in heaven. But conversion must be sought in a way suited to each one.

During the Sunday Eucharist on 11 May, Fr Dariusz Bartocha gave the mandate and the missionary cross to nine missionary volunteers leaving for different countries: South Sudan, Peru, Bolivia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone. These nine young people are a great example to other young participants, showing that you can find joy and self-fulfilment in selfless service to the needy, and that the measure of holiness is love for God and neighbour, practiced every day.

The activities of Savionalia 2014 ended with a floral ceremony and the awarding of prizes to the winners of various competitions .

Published 21/05/2014