ASIA/HONG KONG - “Catch the Vision, Live The Dream”: workshop organized by the Commission for Youth Pastoral Care

Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) - “Catch the Vision, Live The Dream” is the theme of the workshop organized by the Commission for Youth Pastoral Care in Hong Kong which was held from 14 to 19 November. According to reports from Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), the Commission invited Bishop Rolando Joven T. Tirona of Infanta, Philippines), responsible for Youth Pastoral Care for the FABC (Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences) to preside over the six days of exchange and sharing between 30 youth pastoral care workers in Hong Kong and Macao. Together they dealt with issues related to catechesis, evangelization, spiritual formation, social activities, and pastoral projects that relate to the world of the youth. Bishop Tirona, who is the FABC President of the Office for the Laity and for the Family, stressed the importance of Sacred Scripture and prayer, because they help young people “to approach the Lord.” He also emphasized that “pastoral care workers are required to provide an exemplary witness. In this way you can encourage today's youth to have 'a dream', which is our God, the desire to meet our God.” During the sharing of experiences, Dominican Fr Chan highlighted “patience and charity as essential elements for youth pastoral care.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 24/11/2010)