VMY ALGERIA: EXPERIENCE AT THE INTERNATIONAL MEETING OF VINCENTIAN YOUTH AND WORLD YOUTH DAY 2023
AN UNFORGETTABLE MOMENT
Felgueiras
My name is Jean Quentin MANIRAMBONA. I come from Burundi, studying in Algeria. My participation in Felgueiras, Lisbon, from July 29th to August 6th, was a blend of tears and joy.
During the International Gathering of Vincentian Youth from July 29th to 31st in Felgueiras, young people from all corners of the world came together to share their cultures, build connections, live in harmony, pray together, and engage with various participating communities.
What struck me the most, despite our different languages, races, and cultures, was the mutual respect and love among us as human beings. In essence, it was the harmony of diversity creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Furthermore, the training we received was very crucial for humanitarian development. Here, I’ll cite, for example, the theme on Climate Change, which aimed to prepare us to preserve a better future, especially the living world that surrounds us as the fruit of the future.
After these unforgettable moments, we had to bid farewell to Felgueiras and move on to another significant event in Lisbon: the World Youth Day.
Lisbon
World Youth Day (WYD) was an extraordinary experience for me. The highlight was not only seeing the Pope in person but also being among a million people and engaging in numerous well-organized activities.
Waking up at 7 a.m., sometimes even at 6 a.m., involved a lot of walking, using various forms of transportation, occasionally getting lost, and standing in long queues for activities. Through it all, I realized that faith in God is stronger than any challenges we face. I never felt bored. The Pope himself reminded us that the only thing in this world that is truly free is the love of Christ, which we sought and found during WYD.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated volunteers who selflessly served others; may the Lord reward their courage and commitment.
Thank you!
Jean Quentin MANIRAMBONA
VMY ALGERIA
