Know no bounds
Nothing could ever stop the Salvatorians in carrying out the Continental Leadership Meeting 2014 as they set-off this event in the beautiful country of the Philippines from March 19 to 27. In fact, all members of the SDS Generalate from Rome led by General Superior Fr. Milton Zonta, SDS, came to participate together with the representatives of the SDS communities from India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, China and Philippines. Likewise, there seemed no bounds too for the Father Jordan Youth (FJY) when they were given a one-night privilege to meet and greet these ‘big personalities’ of the Society of the Divine Savior and opportunity to share their stories and talents.
On March 23, 2014, FJY was invited to perform for this Continental Leadership Meeting. A night of entertaining performances was held in the Salvatorian Formation House in Talon, Amadeo. The program started at 8:30 pm with the opening message of Fr. Adam Janus, the Vicariate Superior of EAMV. He also led the introduction of the delegates of the Meeting and gave a brief background of the Father Jordan Youth. This promising group, founded almost six years ago, has been doing well in many different activities such as involvement in the church and community projects.
The youth kicked off the show with a poem recital dedicated to the Founder of the Salvatorians, Fr. Francis Jordan. The poem entitled, “The Apostle of the Divine Savior”, was written by Ate Lerma, one of the advisers of the FJY. It reiterates the year’s theme of the Continental Leadership Meeting-“A Call to Be Apostles in the Changing World”, as it narrates the life story of Fr. Jordan and the foundation of the Society.
The event also highlighted the journey of this promising youth through video presentations demonstrated in between performances. The videos mainly cover the group’s purpose, history, and vision. It was really a well-timed moment to introduce the group to all the delegates present in the gathering.
A cultural production number popularly known as “Singkil” (Entangled) was also performed. Originated from the rich culture of the people of Mindanao, Philippines, the dance narrates an epic story of a beautiful princess abducted by the fairies and later on saved by his fearless prince. Dressed up with glimmering costumes, the youth performed the dances with superb grace and sophistication. The subsequent acts entitled “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” (Choose Philippines) and few modern dances, were performed too showcasing the festivities and vivacity of the Filipinos.
The youth also prepared few inspirational songs dedicated to all the delegates of the Meeting. One, entitled “I Believe I Can Fly” was performed by FJY Gilbert and FJY Janssen. It was followed by a very reflective song “Via Dolorosa” sung by Salvatorian brother, Francisco. A group of brothers and some youth members joined together in singing “Fr. Jordan’s Mandate” and another song composed by the first Filipino Salvatorian priest, Fr. Wilson Catabay, underscoring the charism of the Society, entitled “This is Eternal Life.”
Before the program ends, Fr. Milton Zonta, General Superior, delivered a message on behalf of the delegates. He was so glad to witness the talented performances and to see these young people being involved in a lot of activities. Coming from his mouth, he said, “The spirit of Fr. Jordan surely resides in you all and may you continue doing good works and follow Christ.” Finally, the Father Jordan Youth offered a very touching blacklight theater presentation as the event’s concluding prayer.
The two-hour encounter that night was filled not only with entertainment but also an inspiration both for the delegates of the Continental meeting and the members of the FJY. Young or old, everyone can be a witness of Christ and continue His works with faith unshakeable that knows no bounds!
