The Canossian Youth Camp, affectionately known as “CanFIRE” (Canossians on Fire), is a vibrant three-day event held in Sta. Rosa, Laguna – the birthplace of the Canossian Sisters in the Philippines. This youth camp serves a dual purpose, celebrating the 250th birth anniversary of St. Magdalene and commemorating the 70th year of Canossians’ dedicated presence in the country. “CanFIRE” embodies a collaborative endeavor uniting the Canossian Sisters, Fathers, Lay Canossians, and Mission partners, with a primary objective of nurturing young minds and deepening their understanding of St. Magdalene and her enduring significance within the Church and the global community. Central to the camp’s essence is the exploration of St. Magdalene’s fresh perspectives, kindled by the Spirit, and their continued influence on our lives and missions.
The camp’s vibrant theme, “Set Life on Fire,” is a dynamic tapestry of activities, engaging workshops, and enlightening plenary sessions spread over the initial two days. These endeavors are meticulously crafted to offer profound insights into St. Magdalene and her charismatic presence, motivating young individuals to actively engage within the spirit of synodality. The third and final day is dedicated to a brief but impactful immersion experience aptly named the “Charity or Service Revolution.”
The inaugural day of the camp (Magdalene as a Woman of Communion) unfolds with a warm embrace, welcoming close to 500 enthusiastic young people from diverse Canossian communities across Luzon. The day commences with spirited dances and soul-stirring songs, setting the stage for a Eucharistic Celebration co-presided over by six Canossian fathers, led by the esteemed Fr. Jao Leoveras, the current delegation leader. The afternoon session features Sr. Lilia Nuesca, the Provincial Leader of the Canossian Sisters, delivering an inspirational address, urging participants to gain a deeper appreciation for St. Magdalene’s embodiment of womanhood. The day’s central theme, “Magdalene as a woman of communion,” is thoughtfully explored through a series of activities, each addressing six significant societal concerns. These activities encompass communion with the sick, the poor, Mother Earth, the youth, and the victims of online sexual exploitation involving children. Young people actively engage in prayer exercises, and the day culminates with Eucharistic adoration and a soul-soothing Taize prayer for those residing on-site, along with a heartfelt prayer of gratitude with families caring for those under foster care. The day serves as a potent reminder of the power of communion, urging participants to broaden their hearts’ horizons for the mission, particularly with young people.
Day 2 of the camp (Magdalene as a Woman of Participation) dawns with a vibrant morning prayer, featuring spirited songs and dances that set a tone of inspiration. Sister Elizabeth Asuncion, FdCC, takes center stage with a compelling presentation on St. Magdalene’s embodiment of participation. She eloquently portrays young Magdalene as a flickering candle, not only illuminating her immediate surroundings but also the broader society. The day is enriched by the heartwarming testimonies of two witness sharers. Patricia Ann Non, celebrated for her selflessness and the remarkable Maginhawa community pantry initiative during the pandemic, shares her inspirational journey. Her mantra, “magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan,” resonates deeply with the audience, igniting their own flames of altruism. The second witness, Gerard Hernandez, who courageously battles muscular dystrophy, shares a story of resilience and hope, encouraging everyone to harness their God-given gifts to become active participants wherever the Lord places them.
The day features an animated Eucharistic celebration, led by the charismatic Fr. Ralph Jayson Santos, FdCC. It is further elevated by a mesmerizing performance by Dominique Casacop, a former student of Canossa Sta. Rosa and the 2017 Eat Bulaga Violin Hero Grand Champion. Dominique enchants the audience with her musical talents, beautifully showcasing the transformative power of active participation.
In the afternoon, the camp’s focus shifts to the nurturing of the spirit of participation. This is achieved by exploring participants’ God-given talents and inclinations through concurrent sessions led by skilled individuals in various fields of interest, including Poetry, Contemplative Prayer, Art, Bibliodrama, Song, and Dance.
Day 3 of the camp (Magdalene as a Woman of Mission) takes on a new dimension as participants embark on an immersion experience, actively engaging in community service in various villages and areas of Sta. Rosa, Laguna. This collective endeavor involves local barangay officials, mission partners, Canossian volunteers, and other agency heads, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Participants are grouped and stationed in different designated locations, such as the bustling wet market, the town plaza, orphanages, lively streets, cemeteries, and areas facing economic challenges. Their noble task is to immerse themselves in mini-exposures and community service, encountering people under the compassionate guidance of Canossian Sisters, Fathers, and volunteers.
The immersion experience poignantly underscores Magdalene’s role as a woman on a mission, within the framework of a memorable “Charity or Service Revolution.” The aspiration is that the generosity and service of the participants will set off a ripple effect, profoundly touching the lives of those they encounter during this brief yet impactful period. This unique encounter with the “least, lost, and last” members of society, in collaboration with various strategic partners and diverse locations, is aimed at spreading the Gospel and instilling hope in individuals of all ages.
Following the immersion, group discussions and reflections are thoughtfully facilitated by skilled facilitators. The day reaches its zenith with a “Missioning” ceremony involving all the delegates. This special moment is intricately woven into a co-celebrated Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Renato Maglungsod, FdCC. The compelling homily, delivered by Fr. Ralph Santos, FdCC, ignites the hearts of all in attendance, inspired by the trailblazing spirit of our Foundress. The hope is that this remarkable experience will serve as a catalyst, motivating all to continue “telling the world of God’s love” in their future endeavors.
In conclusion, the Canossian Youth Camp, “CanFIRE,” represents a transformative journey aimed at inspiring and empowering young individuals to embrace the spirit of St. Magdalene and actively participate in their communities. It challenges them to become agents of positive change in the world, igniting their hearts with faith, service, and communion. It’s a celebration of love and an embodiment of hope for all those fortunate enough to partake in its spirit.
Sr.Charito Balancin,FdCC
