10k Bicolano Youth gather for MYC 2018

By JC Madrid, NPS NAGA CITY – Around 10,000 Bicolano Youth gathered once again for the annual Marian Youth Congress (MYC) last September 8-9 at the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum. Spearheaded by the Caceres Youth Commission and themed “Do not be Afraid” (Lk 1:30), this year’s MYC contemplated on Mary’s example of courage and humble service by wholeheartedly accepting God’s plan for her. The twelve-hour overnight event started with animations led by the Caceres Animators. After which, Rev. Fr. Arnel I. Haber, Director of the Caceres Youth Commission, welcomed the delegates and promised them a better and possibly earlier holding of the 2019 edition of the Congress, coinciding with the Year of the Youth. A Eucharistic Celebration was then led by Caceres Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD, who, in his homily, reminded the delegates that the center of their devotion is not only the Blessed Virgin, but also her Son, Jesus Christ. The Archbishop also pondered on the theme of the MYC. According to him, Mary is a woman of faith. Thus, the Archbishop exhorted, “Never lose faith. Despite all [the] challenges, do not be afraid. Instead, have faith in God.” After the mass, the priests and religious from the Archdiocese showcased their talents and skills in the “Clergy/Religious Got Talent”. A talk was also delivered by Mr. Jeremy P. Quimbang, the Youth for Christ International Coordinator. Other activities during the said annual event included the Taizé Prayer, Heart of Worship Concert, Animations, and Sayaw ki Ina.