The Myanmar Catholic Youth of Singapore (MCYS) successfully hosted its inaugural youth training course for Myanmar Catholic youth in Singapore last weekend.

The two-day program, held from August 9th to 10th at the Catholic Spiritual Center on Upper Serangoon Road, drew an enthusiastic gathering of approximately 250 participants, predominantly young migrant workers.

The training course commenced with an opening prayer and talk by Fr. Joseph Kace, MCYS’s spiritual director and chaplain.

The central sessions were led by guest priest and facilitator Fr. Paschal Thi Ko Shin, who addressed critical topics including the Sacrament of Marriage, Christian leadership, and other spiritual themes, engaging directly with questions from the attentive youth.

Sr. Goretti and Sr. Elizabeth ably guided Praise, worship, and social activities.

Sr. Goretti, coordinator for Myanmar youth in Singapore, emphasized the profound purpose behind the initiative: “The main goal is to strengthen the hope of young people, especially those struggling in a foreign country. We want them to have stronger faith in God because this year is the Jubilee Year of Hope.”

She acknowledged significant hurdles overcome, including securing a venue, obtaining government permissions, confirming facilitators, and navigating the demanding work schedules of participants. “Despite these challenges, we managed to make it happen. I’m delighted that so many joined, and we hope to continue this every year.”

Fr. Paschal highlighted the unique challenges faced by the young attendees, each carrying their own burdens and reasons for living far from home.

“As migrant workers, they may not feel at home in a foreign land,” he observed. “I encouraged them not to lose hope despite the difficulties in building a better future for themselves and their loved ones. One day, these young people will be the brighter future of the Church, their country, and their families.”

Participants expressed deep gratitude for the rare opportunity to connect, learn, and share within their community.

Christina Nwe captured a common sentiment: “We migrant workers rarely meet due to our busy schedules, but this camp gave us the chance to share our experiences and hardships. Learning about the Sacrament of Marriage in a foreign country cleared many of our doubts and fears.”

For John Paing, the course provided long-sought answers: “This youth camp gave me the answers I had been searching for and knowledge I had longed for since my last camp 10 years ago.”

Matthew noted the inspiring enthusiasm despite being a first effort: “Although it’s our first youth training course and there were shortcomings, the energy of the participants was inspiring. Such camps enrich us with religious knowledge.”

The event concluded not just as a successful gathering, but with a renewed commitment from both organizers and participants to continue building and strengthening a vibrant, faith-filled Myanmar Catholic youth community within Singapore.

The success of this inaugural course marks a significant step forward in supporting young Myanmar Catholics navigating life abroad.

By RVA Myanmar Service