Photo credits: Archdiocese of Palo Commission on Youth Page https://www.facebook.com/RCAPYouth
Last July 17-21, 2024, the Student Catholic Action of the Philippines participated in the National Conference of Youth Ministers 2024 in the Archdiocese of Palo. Ms. Karen Claire Belocura, the National Coordinator for Formation and Advocacy, and Ms. Jhulienne Anne Bucao, the student representative of the SCAP Board, represented SCA Philippines. With the theme "Abound in Joy, Christ is our Hope", youth ministers from all over the Philippines gathered in solidarity and unity.
How was the NCYM experience? Jhulienne shares her experience during this meaningful gathering:
My experience at the National Conference of Youth Ministers can be summed up in one word: HOPE. It rekindled hope within me to become a better youth leader, hope in my fellow youth leaders to make a difference in their communities, and hope that together, we can bring more people back to the Church. This sense of hope was beautifully echoed in the words of Bishop Bart, the Bishop of Iba, who spoke about the importance of bringing hope and humility to our dioceses. He reminded us of Romans 12:12, which says,
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer," a verse that resonates deeply with our mission as youth leaders.
The conference was a wonderful opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges we face as youth leaders, and it was heartwarming to meet new friends who share the same journey, from whom I could learn valuable lessons. This gathering provided a platform to exchange ideas, adopt effective methods beneficial to our communities, and rekindle old friendships with familiar faces from other dioceses, including my own Archdiocese of Cebu.
Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and vocations not only broadened my perspective but also contributed to my ongoing discernment.
One of the highlights of the conference was Dr. Jessica Joy Candelario’s talk, which helped us identify areas where our parishes or movements might be lacking—whether in Evangelization, Catechesis, Fellowship, Social Action, Leadership, or Worship. As youth leaders, it is crucial to incorporate all these aspects to build a stronger Church, especially for the younger generation.
What truly amazed me about this conference was the overwhelming sense of hope it instilled in me to continue my calling. I believe it was no coincidence that I was there; it was part of God’s plan for me to hear the inspiring words of Bishop Rex Alarcon (Director of CBCP-ECY), who reminded us that
“Dum spiro spero”—“While I breathe, I hope.”
This message resonated deeply with me, affirming that as long as we walk this earth, even when all seems lost, there is still hope. By using the talents God has given us to help others, we can bring hope and joy in our own unique ways, continuing His mission with unwavering faith, no matter the challenges we face.
Jhulienne Anne Bucao is a SCAn from the Archdiocese of Cebu who is currently taking up Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Cebu Institute of Technology - University. She is also the outgoing Chairperson of the SCAP National Coordinating Council (2021-2024) and the Student Representative at the SCAP Board.
Would you like to get in touch with SCA Philippines?
Support our Programs through My Gift for Change
Follow our Facebook Page
Email us at mail@scaphilippines.org
"To Christ the King! Love and Loyalty!
Comments