Reconnecting Hope through God’s Word

Youth Inspired by the Word, Journeying with Hope. That was the central theme of the 3rd Archdiocesan Youth Bible Symposium last January 18, 2025 at Jesus and Mary Thevenet School Bangkal Davao City. Youths from different parishes and vicariates gathered to glorify God in the Scriptures and at the same celebrate together as one Christian Family.

The bible enthronement along with the pilgrims dance marked the beginning of the event followed by the animation. The bible was also venerated wherein the youth kneeled and gave reverence to the Holy Scripture. After that Bro. Concordio Pondias, ABAD Lay Coordinator gave the Opening Remarks.

Mr. AJ Perez was the Resource Speaker of the event. His charismatic and energetic way of engaging with the youth resulted in a fun-filled talk. He emphasized that we are now in a generation wherein people are disconnected to hope. Hence, a lot of people are experiencing anxiety, stress and depression which poses a challenge to today’s society. The talk also gave emphasis to the theme of this year’s Bible Month which is “God’s Word: Source of HOPE (Harmony. Obedience. Peace. Empowerment).”

Rev. Fr. Ritsche Gamaya, ABAD Director presided over the celebration of the Holy Mass at 11am. He emphasized the importance of encountering the Word of God and despite the fact that we may feel unworthy, we must not fear for Jesus came not for the good and healthy but for the sinners and the sick.

After the lunch break, the afternoon program began with a lively dance animation. This was followed by the Creative Quiz Bee, where three pairs from each parish participated. During the quiz, each pair took turns answering one question before passing it on to the next. Immaculate Conception Parish Mintal emerged as the 1st placer, with San Miguel Parish Panacan securing 2nd place and Sto. Rosario Parish, Toril taking 3rd. Consolation prizes were awarded to all participating parishes.

A lively praise and worship session followed wherein the youth sang and danced their hearts out to glorify God. Lastly, the certificate of appreciation was given to all participating parishes and the closing remarks was given. Fr. Ritsche then gave the final blessing signifying the end of the event.

The bible Symposium was made successful due to the unified efforts of the Archdiocesan Bible Apostolate of Davao and the Davao Archdiocesan Youth Coordinating Apostolate and of course the steadfast support of the different parishes into sending their youth delegates to the symposium. Youth, may you continue to walk with a hopeful heart. (Allyza Hope J. Tabigue)