The Comboni Annual Youth Gathering, a cherished tradition that brings together young people from various parishes to celebrate, connect, and grow, came to life on January 5th, 2025, at the Uganda Martyrs International Scholasticate in Nairobi, Kenya. This year’s gathering revolved around the theme: “Navigating Social Media: Strengthening Relationships in a Digital Age.”
The event provided a platform for vibrant discussions, celebrations, and shared experiences.
The gathering aims to foster meaningful interactions among youth, creating a supportive environment where they can share their challenges and aspirations. By engaging with peers from different backgrounds, attendees strengthen their sense of community and gain new perspectives.
This year’s theme addressed the pervasive influence of social media on relationships among young people. Through group discussions and a spirited presentation given by Fr. Christopher Silwembe, Mccj, participants explored both the opportunities and challenges posed by digital communication. They delved into strategies for maintaining authentic connections while ensuring a balanced use of social platforms.
Youth face unique challenges that can often feel isolating. The Comboni Annual Youth Gathering provides a safe space for open discussions, allowing young people to connect with peers who understand their struggles. National Youth Moderator Joseph Bill underscored the importance of community, quoting Pope Francis: “As much as we have our spiritual lives together, we cannot be saved as individuals. We are saved as a community.” He highlighted the gathering’s role in forming the Comboni Youth Community a network that fosters both spiritual and personal growth.
The event also served as a stage for celebration and self-expression. From musical performances to talent showcases, participants had the opportunity to explore and display their abilities. Many discovered hidden talents, while others were inspired by the creativity of their peers. These activities fostered joy and camaraderie, reinforcing the gathering’s spirit of unity.
Mentors from the Comboni Community played a pivotal role in the event, offering insights into economic, social, and cultural issues. Joseph Bill referred to the youth stage as a “hunt stage,” where distractions can easily derail one’s focus. He emphasized the importance of grounding oneself spiritually while actively contributing to areas like education, music, media, and sports.
“Youth have immense potential to make a difference,” said Joseph. “Events like this equip them with the tools to navigate challenges and pursue their dreams with purpose and faith.”
The Comboni Annual Youth Gathering creates a unique opportunity for young people to share experiences and support one another. By discussing how they cope with challenges, participants learn from each other’s journeys and find strength in shared solutions. The gathering’s emphasis on unity empowers youth to face life’s obstacles with confidence and determination.
As the event concluded, attendees left inspired and equipped with new perspectives to navigate the complexities of modern life. The Comboni Annual Youth Gathering continues to be a beacon of hope, fostering growth, faith, and community for young people across parishes.
By Brian Siebela
New People Media
