Lancy Fernandes
Bangalore, Nov 6: The second day of the Jesuit mega youth convention ‘Magis’ gave a wonderful opportunity to the pilgrims to get in touch with society and the issues that are embedded in it.
The exposure from November 2 to 4 included contact programmes in villages (Anekal), Cancer Hospital, Leprosy Centre (Sumanahalli), Bosco Mane, slums of Viveknagar, Home for the aged, eco- spirituality, inter–religious dialogue (Ashirvad and visit to temples), street theatre, etc.
‘Magis Circle’ one of the pillars of the convention gave time for all the pilgrims to share their experiences and deepen their commitment to society.
On the evening of November 4 all pilgrims gathered together for a creative youth mass at St Joseph’ College Chapel. After the mass, fun games thrilled all as every team gave its full heart and soul.
A candle procession of all 300 pilgrims meaningfully resonating clearly the mission each one has to be beacons of light in the world. Half an hour of Gospel music by ‘Vibrant Stars’ a team of committed youth gave much needed spiritual fervor as everyone danced and jumped in praising God.
The concluding day began with Morning Prayer and sharing of experiences by different groups. Cultural extravaganza included presentations by 13 groups on varied themes of their places of exposure. They clearly portrayed the struggle each one went through and the changeover of attitudes that had taken place in these five days.
A special Magis quiz on St Ignatius and Society of Jesus saw four teams qualify out of 13 teams, to be part of the finals. Fr Arun Kumar SJ was the quiz master. Each team was on their heels throughout the quiz.
The concluding mass at 3 pm was a solemn thanksgiving celebration with Fr Edward Mudavassery SJ. Provincial of South Asia was the main celebrant.
The valedictory function began with the flashback video of Magis-2012 which rekindled the memories of pilgrims. The videos brought tears to the eyes of many. The youth group of Bangalore ‘Ignitors’ were thanked profusely.
Fr Brain Pereira SJ, the chief organizer of the event, thanked everyone. He also promised that there would be a bigger gathering of Magis next year in Bangalore.
Everyone was overjoyed to have spent five useful days. Tresy, one of the participants from Mangalore said, “This was indeed a unique kind of youth convention. I never expected a splendid exposure programme like this. It was indeed a memorable event. Thanks to Fr Brian and his team.”
It was truly an experience of striving more for the greater glory of God.