Faith – a community experience
On the 9th of December 2017 about 9 0 youngsters from different regions of the Mumbai Province gathered together at Maria Vihar, Nasik through the intervention of different Salesian sisters and Salesians to enrich their experience in the faith. The faith celebration began with an inauguration ceremony at 5:30pm.
The girls of Maria Vihar presented a prayer dance to help the participants enter into a moment of prayer Sr. Salomi declared the faith fest open through a ceremony consisted of dwelling on faith which is about being faithful, available, indebted, together and holy. In his speech Fr. Ashley the Chief Guest mentioned on how faith is a 
significant element of our lives and that faith and action go hand in hand. In her welcome note Sr. Philomena emphasized on how Nashik is a centre of faith for many people and therefore for us gathered too is now an experience of strengthening our faith.
The organizers were then introduced by Sr.Nilima the (Chief coordinator) followed by some ice-breakers for the youngsters to make new friends. Thereafter the youngsters were divided into 8 different groups and reflected on the aspect of faith in their lives and what God means to them. To energize them once again a few biblical games were organized. Seeking the guidance of our Bl. Mother they then prayed the Holy Rosary and contemplated on the Joyful Mysteries.
Later on Supper was served and they and some time for recreation to mingle with others. The day ended with a praise and worship adoration service in which the youngsters offered their weaknesses and failures before the Lord. Sticking to the Salesian tradition Fr. Jacob gave a goodnight asking youngsters to be Christ bearers in their respective setups.
The next day began with a simple morning prayer together after which the youngsters had a meditation in their respective groups centered on the gospel passage of Jesus being lost in the temple. Thereafter they were served breakfast and given time for recreation. The later session was intense in nature. The youngsters were given personal time to reflect on life and relationships especially in the f
amily. This meaningful journey continued with the sacrament of reconciliation wherein the youngsters spend some quality time with themselves in silence. A meaningful Eucharist was then celebrated by Fr. Kenneth who helped the participants to involve themselves as he explained the different parts of the mass and their significance.
In the afternoon, lunch was served and the youngsters spent some time together in sharing. After lunch a short session was organized by the brothers with the theme ‘You too can be a saint”. The session focused on how holiness is a matter opening ones heart to God. After the session the participants spent some time sharing their experiences. The last input was given by Fr. Robert who spoke on motivating oneself as a crucial element of the life of youth. The faith celebration ended with a closing ceremony and prize distribution. The youngsters were grateful for the experience and expressed their sentiments personally to those who contributed to a process of growth in their lives.