Sabah Youth Day-4 launched

“Bah, mula sudah SYD4 KITA..” that is the word printed on the new T-shirt of the 4th Sabah Youth Day event which was officially launched in Holy Cross Toboh, Tambunan Feb 13-15.

The launching was officiated by Bishop Julius Gitom from Sandakan diocese, witnessed by Archbishop John Wong and Bishop Cornelius Piong, priests, religious and 146 heads of youth contingents from all 3 Arch/dioceses.

This marks the start of the journey of the Youth Cross from one parish to another until they reach the SYD4 highlight celebration in Holy Trinity Tawau Jun 6-10, 2016 which carries the theme from the Beatitudes, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” (Matt 5:7).

Bishop Cornelius Piong, main celebrant for the Mass said that SYD is an important programme that would help Catholic youths in facing faith-degrading challenges. He gave example on life circumstances such as local migration from the village to big cities, which creates distance between family members and later commonly fuels immoral relationships and use of drugs. Working youth normally face difficulties at workplace among colleagues with different beliefs. Bishop Piong said, “The question is, how do they live out their Catholic faith in situations like these?” SYD hopes to help youth to address such issues.

In conjunction with the launching, the first phase  talks were held. Among sessions organised were talks on individual identity and Catholic youth culture, family and youth, and salvation history.

The new SYD4 logo and official song were also launched on the same day. All are encouraged to check SYD4 website for more information: https://sabahyouthday4.wix.com/syd4  or Facebook: HELLO!! SYD-4, 2016. – Sr Dora Obod fsic