Lenten formation sessions were held by the SDC members, in collaboration with the Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad in Darasa, Tanauan City across five Saturdays, concluding on March 28. These sessions were aimed at young people from Grades 7 to 9, aged around 13 to 15 years old. The overarching theme chosen for the sessions was Walking with Jesus during Lent, and in each week, the reflections shared were linked to the Gospel reading from each respective Sunday.
More than 120 young people attended at least one of these sessions, with each session having around 60 participants. At the start of each session, the participants, coming from different schools and barangays, were encouraged to interact with each other through indoor games in the parish hall. During the formation sessions, the youths present participated by reading passages from the Gospel, sharing their own reflections and taking part in quizzes. At the end of each session, the parish provided a small meal for all involved.
In preparation for Holy Week, the last session featured prayers from the SDC tradition, such as the memorial exercise written by St George Preca, while the concluding prayers took place around the Face of Christ. These consisted of an examination of conscience as preparation for confession.
A special word of thanks goes to Fr Darwin de Leon, parish priest, Kuya Leo and his team in charge of the youth in the parish, and Ate Maria Victoria who always welcomed us with open arms. Above all, we thank the Lord for giving us the opportunity to journey with him throughout this blessed season, as we look forward to more opportunities to accompany the youth in their journey of faith.


