(ANS – Sherbrooke) – 20 Canadian teenagers who form part of the Salesian Youth Mission Group (JMS) at Sherbrooke went to Santa Catarina, Mexico recently, where they met up with around thirty others their own age. It was an exchange of different life experiences which everyone found enriching. This took place from 1-16 March.

Leading this expedition, the 20th such, was Fr Alain Léonard, member of the Salesian community at Sherbrooke who has also led the previous 19 excursions. During their two week stay the Sherbrooke teenagers were able to spend their days with Mexican children and their activities: cultural trips to some of the local interest spots, prayer together, games and manual work like planting crops. As well as a linguistic exchange, it was also an exchange concerning some of the typical challenges teenagers face.

“The experience, which we would call one of international cooperation, reminded these youngsters that before they can change the world they need to change themselves”, said Fr Léonard. “Actually the challenge is to support and encourage those who have less in daily existence; focusing on others rather than themselves; choosing what is essential instead of what is extra; getting perspective on our little personal problems and being happy, like our Mexican friends, in a Salesian way”.

The exchange between the two groups also had some demanding moments such as when the Mexican teenagers spoke of the drug problem in Chignahuapan.

The Sherbrooke group who very much appreciated the experience, said: “My perception of the world has altered: I was seeing things through ‘North American’ eyes, but now I see things from a wider perspective”; “what remains with me after this trip is having experience of a certain poverty. There was a lot of mutual help between people... everyone shared and problems were overcome together.

The Canadians also benefited a lot in terms of relationships: “We have developed some wonderful friendships, without computers or mobile phones”; and: “I felt so much love during this trip; it reminded me that there is happiness in simple things, like a smile”.

Published 18/03/2013