(ANS – Czerwinsk nad Wisla) – Creating a vocations culture is one of the fundamental challenges in youth ministry. Helping young people to see life as a gift and to live it as a vocation requires a special commitment on the part of those who accompany the young in their spiritual and personal development. For this reason, the Salesians of the Warsaw Province started a movement in 2010 called ProVocatio, to help young people to discover the various forms of vocation as ways of living for one’s neighbour.

The ProVocatio movement was born in response to the call of the Rector Major in the Strenna of 201. Using the gospel phrase “Come and See”, he invited the Salesian Family to make a particular effort to foster a vocations culture.

The Provocatio movement brings together very many young people every year. During the meetings, the young people follow a spiritual path based on:  frequent reception of the sacraments of Eucharist and Confession; listening to conferences and discussions; exercises in human development with the help of specialists that include priests, journalists, musicians and therapists.

The most recent meeting took place from 12 to 14 April at Czerwinsk nad Wisla where more than 80 young people from higher schools took part. The theme took as its starting point the account of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. It sought to develop the idea that each one travels his or her road in life, and we need to be able to recognize the presence of Jesus Christ along the way. The young people are involved, especially in the practical part of the retreat, and learn to build relationships with others, to deal with stress and to avoid addictions.

The meetings are organized by the Emmaus Centre for Vocations and Youth Ministry.

Published 19/04/2013