Mati Youth Convenes

Strengthening the Youth Synodal Journey, the Diocesan Youth Apostolate of the Diocese of Mati once again gathered for their 16th Biennial Convention, July 17–20, in Baganga, Davao Oriental, with the theme “Journeying with haste like Mary in communion, participation, and mission.”

DYC is a biennial convention and an expression of the synodal journey and camaraderie of the Diocesan Youth actively serving in the Church in the entire Mati Diocese. This will be the first in-person DYC after being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A total of 1,148 participating youth from 21 parishes across the Diocese, and 4 respective vicariates, namely: St. Vincent Ferrer, San Nicolas de Tolentino, San Salvador del Mundo, and St. James the Apostle.

Meanwhile, Most Rev. Abel C. Apigo, DD, Bishop of Mati, together with the youth director, Rev. Fr. Donie M. Emuy, led the opening program of this year’s convention with a Holy Mass situated at the host parish of the Immaculate Conception, attended by the Mati Clergy, followed by the opening parade and welcome program.

On the other hand, a talk took given on the second day, which struck at societal issues that are rampant, such as mental health, protection of environment, and the enlightenment of Catholic doctrine, which had a big impact on the youths’ mental, emotional, and spiritual growth.

Activities such as literary competitions, team building exercises, sports activities, and the Marian procession were also staged. On the third day, a socio-cultural program took place. This also includes the Vocation promotion and time with the bishop, which helped the youth follow their hearts and reflect on their chosen vocation.

Sharing a night full of glamour and fellowship, the youth attended the Agape night with the bishop and concluded as Miss DYA 2023 hailed its new queen, April Estopito of St. Vincent Ferrer Vicariate.

Youth Director, Rev. Fr. Donie Emuy, expressed his gratitude to the host parish – ICP Baganga, all the youth who attended the said event, and encouraged them to seal their faithfulness no matter the circumstances. He also extended his gratitude to all the benefactors, technical working groups, PYCs, core groups, parish leaders, and those who supported the event from preparation until the big day.

For the first time around, Immaculate Conception Parish-Baganga, supported by the Local Government Unit of Baganga guaranteed its impressive hosting of DYC 2023. (Kyrie Jacky Sobrecarey | Photo by Mati Social Communications)