Caritas’ Summer Youth Camp creates special bonds

More than 30 youngsters from four dioceses saw peacebuilding in a new way at Caritas Pakistan’s Fifth Annual Youth Camp this weekend.

“Generally Christians are regarded more trustworthy than others. Support each other. Your bishops stand with you,” Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi Diocese said. “Live your life as per gospel values. We face many challenges as minority but education can change our community.”

The Archbishop was speaking on June 15 at O’ Spring Estate in a program organized under Caritas Pakistan Peace Building and Social Harmony Program. Young Christians, aged 17 through 23 participated in the June 13 to 16 camp that included sessions and quiz on peace building concepts, role of youth in peace building, peace builders’ tools, self-confidence and youth development, hiking and cultural night.

Mr. Amer Anwer National Program Coordinator held a group work on conflict resolution. “Always remain neutral as a peace builder without taking any sides. The seeds of peace will flower, keep faith,” he said.

Mr. Aneel Mushtaq Executive Secretary Caritas Pakistan Faisalabad held a session on importance of role models while Mr. Samuel Clement Executive Secretary Caritas Pakistan Multan held a group work on youth leadership and career development. The participants pointed drug addiction and unemployment among major challenges being faced by Christian youth. Father Kamran Daniel Assistant Director Our Lady of Lourdes Minor Seminary urged the youth to become sacraments of Christ. He suggested them to take Central Superior Services (CSS) exams and contribute in making better legislations in the country.

Mr. Amjad Gulzar Executive Director Caritas Pakistan joined Mr. Kamran Sattar Executive Secretary Caritas Pakistan Islamabad-Rawalpindi, Mr. Samuel Clement and Mr. Aneel Mushtaq in presenting shawl and souvenirs to the archbishop. “Despite existence of social media technologies, Christian students have a low percentage in schools all over the country. Live your life to set example for younger generations. Share your learnings in parish meetings. Our annual National Community Development Course can further help you in job opportunities,” said Mr. Amjad Gulzar.