Darkhan (Mongolia). From 22 to 25 January 2024, in Darkan, six hours by train from the capital Ulaanbataar, a meeting took place with about fifty young people from the Houses of Mongolia of the Salesians of Don Bosco and Morning Star Province (KOR) of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, from Darkhan, Ulaanbaatar, Shuwuu, and Orbit – organized by the Youth Ministry and coordinated by Fr. Mario Gaspar, SDB.
The theme of the meeting, with the aim of forming the young animators of the Salesian communities, was Strenna 2024, “The dream that makes you dream”.
Two FMA Past Pupils, who became Oratorians, Enhktul and Anungoo, participated for the first time. Accompanied by Sister Aleth Evangelista, FMA, they greatly appreciated the exciting experience of living with other young people those days of friendship, fun, knowledge, formation, sharing, celebration, and reflection.
On the first day, Fr. Paul Leung, delegate of the Salesians in Mongolia and Director of the House of Ulaanbataar, conducted a reflection on the Strenna, showing the video with Mongolian subtitles. Young people confronted themselves with the reality of the life in which they find themselves, which challenges them a lot and, despite the difficulties, have been encouraged to continue dreaming to find their goal and meaning in life.
Fr. Mario and Fr. Andy, respectively on the second and third day, deepened the Dream at 9 years of Don Bosco, updating it and actualizing its meaning in the lives of young people. In addition to the reflections, the group also had the opportunity to visit the city and an afternoon of sledding and group games on the snowy mountain. They also had a sports night where they played volleyball and basketball.
During the final evening, each team presented a thank you. They then evaluated the event and planned the concrete steps to be taken in their respective local communities.
The meeting lasted only three days, but the Salesian spirit of joy and hope remained indelible in the hearts of the young people upon returning to their realities. Each left with the Dream of Don Bosco alive in their heart, ready to dream and live his dream!
