KOTA KINABALU: Social communicators from the nine Catholic dioceses in…
117 attend Papar Parish Confirmation Camp
PAPAR – One hundred and seventeen boys and girls from Papar Parish attended a confirmation camp on 20-21 Apr 2018 at St Joseph here.
The camp, organised by the parish catechetical committee, was held in preparation for the reception of the sacrament on May 6.
Among the activities were an introductory ice-breaking session, Bible enthronement, and holy hour.
In his catechesis, Father Thomas Yip explained in depth the need and benefits of the different forms of prayer and devotions such as adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, rosary, Divine Mercy chaplet, Lectio Divina and the seven steps of Bible sharing.
After morning Mass on the second day, the participants were divided in groups of four and engaged for about one and a half hour at each of the four praying stations (rosary, divine mercy, bible sharing and lectio divina).
In the concluding session after sunset Mass, five participants shared their feelings and experiences in the course of the camp.
Beckham Tan Chiu Hung, 16, shared how he was touched by Christ’s sufferings, death and resurrection and his forgiveness. He added that to be a true Christian, one ought to share the Good News.
Leonardus Simon, 17, touched on his personal immersion during the Rosary session in Christ’s enduring patience with the whipping and mockery by the Roman soldiers until the crucifixion site.
Efyqua Ovya Edward ,16, who comes from St Cyril Talantang, was thankful to God and Fr Yip, despite feeling unwell and the challenges in her life and family, through constant prayer she can really feel the peace, presence and mercy of God in the Divine Mercy session.
Melyyssa Ann Siaw Tze Fui, 16, shared that despite feeling drowsy, she was satisfied with the overall programme and group activities.
Ivanslaw Issac Isidore, 16, shared his anticipation and enthusiasm to attend the camp and how he wished it could be longer since he met lots of friends and learnt the various forms of prayer.
The participants will meet again on Apr 29 for the final rehearsal and on May 4 for confession. The camp ended with an evaluation and a closing prayer. – William Charles Mindus (SOCCOM Papar)