VINCENTIAN MARIAN YOUTH GREECE
together in FAITH, together in HOPE, together in LOVE for Christ!
VMY Greece celebrates Patronal feast, holds 1st monthly session for the Pastoral Year 2022-2023
by Maria Crisalyn Serquiña
Last September 25, 2022, VMY Greece simultaneously held its celebration of the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul (September 27) and its first monthly integration session for the Pastoral Year 2022-2023 at the 3rd floor of the Miraculous Medal Center. The session was facilitated by its Executive Youth Council (EYC) officers.
The session began with the Morning Prayer led by Catherine Binibini, EYC Secretary, and a lively opening hymn entitled ‘Trading My Sorrows’. Afterwards, Julia Meneses, EYC Treasurer, proceeded with the greeting of the Birthday celebrants (both youth and parents) for the months of June, July, August and September, as well as made some important announcements regarding some upcoming events like the Feast of St. Therese, the October Marian Pilgrimage in Lavrio, and the 13th Anniversary of the group, which everyone was looking forward to with excitement.
"We should strive to keep our hearts open to the sufferings and wretchedness of other people, and pray continually that God may grant us that spirit of compassion which is truly the spirit of God." - Saint Vincent de Paul
As the group welcomed its new members, theme of the day’s session was primarily focused on the life of Saint Vincent de Paul, on what he built and collaborated with, as well as the values that we, Vincentians, input in our daily lives. Pictures of Vincentians around the globe were shown on the power point presentation as the facilitators talked about its patron saint and how big the Vincentian community is. Furthermore, discussions were centered on the three essential elements of Spirituality, Friendship and Service. Later on, an activity based on these essential elements was made wherein the participants were divided into three groups. Each group was then asked to present their acts on these elements.
Meanwhile, Ivy Palope, EYC President, took the chance to discuss and reflect as well the Vincentian values of simplicity, humility, gentleness, zeal and selflessness on which we, Vincentians, should practice on a daily basis.
The session eventually concluded with Catherine Binibini leading the closing prayer and the prayer before the meals.