South Asian Salesian Youth Movement Fest (SYM’ 2024)

Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, India

29^th December 2024 and 1^st January, 2025

The South Asian Salesian Youth Movement Fest (SYM 2024) took place from December 29, 2024, to January 1, 2025, at Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, India. Organized by Don Bosco Youth Animation South Asia and the Salesian Province of Chennai, the event brought together over 1,800 youth from across South Asia, promoting unity, fraternity, and social responsibility.

Day 1: The event was inaugurated with an oath-taking ceremony, pledging environmental stewardship and equality. Keynotes by Rev. Fr. Michael Angel SDB and Rev. Fr. Don Bosco SDB emphasized the relevance of St. John Bosco’s teachings today. Distinguished speakers such as Mr. Nanda Kumar IRS and Mr. Jayaseelan IDAS highlighted the role of youth in addressing modern challenges. Cultural performances by Sacred Heart College students celebrated national unity, while the Holy Mass focused on faith, service, and the values of St. John Bosco.

Day 2: The day was filled with enriching sessions and cultural performances. Fr. Ernest Rosario SDB’s session on "Social Media: The Magic, The Logic, and The Tragic" explored the dual aspects of social media. Cultural performances like the Parraiattam drum beats connected youth to their heritage. Sessions on the evolution of SYM by Fr. Patrick Antonyraj SDB and youth engagement in ecology by Dr. Sultan A. Ismail were followed by discussions on nation-building in the “My Dream for My Country” session. The highlight of the evening was the Holy Mass, celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu DD, Bishop of Vellore. In his homily, Bishop Ambrose emphasized the transformative power of faith and hope, particularly in the lives of young people. He highlighted their role as agents of change in society and in nation-building. He shared three key life lessons for the youth. The evening ended with a powerful Praise and Worship session, Holy Mass, and a grand Christmas Cantata, celebrating the birth of Christ.

Day 3: This day focused on reflection and cultural exchange. The morning began with a feedback session followed by discussions on the future of SYM. A Short Film Competition showcased youth creativity, and the SYM Cultural Display and Rally in Cultural Dress celebrated diversity and unity. The rally, flagged off by Thiru K. Tharpagaraj, IAS, was a significant moment of commitment to the SYM values. The day concluded with Mass, the Rosary, and a festive New Year Programme.

Concluding Ceremony: On January 1, 2025, the event concluded with a solemn Invocation by Rev. Fr. Deva Joe SDB. A Welcome Address emphasized unity, service, and a brighter future. Cultural performances, including a dance by Don Rua House students, highlighted the event's festive atmosphere. Rev. Fr. Agilan SDB, Provincial of INT, commended youth contributions, and the SYM LEADS Stars of Hope Awards recognized outstanding individuals. The ceremony concluded with a Vote of Thanks, the emotional SYM Anthem, feedback from the youth, and a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Lawrence Pius DD. The Bishop’s homily emphasized peace, harmony, and youth as agents of change.

Overall, SYM 2024 was an inspiring celebration of youth, faith, service, and leadership, leaving participants with a renewed sense of commitment to the Salesian mission and a future of hope and unity.