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Bishop’s Annual Youth Tournament at Holy Family Parish, Lainya – Yei Diocese
Andrew Truong Quoc Hung, SVD, and Communication Team
We were deeply grateful and joyful to welcome Bishop Alex Lodiong Sakor Eyobo of Yei Diocese, together with several priests, SSpS Sisters, and youths from all parishes of the diocese. In total, approximately 250 youths participated in this annual event.
Throughout the tournament, the spiritual life of the youths was given great importance. Holy Mass was celebrated daily at 7:00 a.m., followed by football matches among teams from the different parishes. Each evening concluded with bonfire gatherings, fostering fellowship, reflection, and unity among the participants.
On the football field, the youths demonstrated not only talent and discipline but also fair play, mutual respect, and sportsmanship, clearly reflecting the values of peace and unity. Through their active participation, many people witnessed that the youths were not only praying but also living and proclaiming God’s love and peace in concrete ways. The final match was played between Holy Family Parish (host parish) and Christ the King Cathedral Parish. We congratulate the Christ the King football team, who emerged as champions and were awarded the tournament cup.
In addition to sports activities, Bible workshops were organized for all participants before the evening bonfires. We invited SSpS Sisters to share their biblical knowledge with the youths. The sessions were well attended, and the youths participated enthusiastically, raising thoughtful questions related to the Holy Scriptures. Other workshops were also conducted, including sessions on the history of Yei Diocese, Catholic liturgy, and youth psychology.
In the spirit of Laudato Si’, the youths also engaged in environmental activities such as cleaning grass, garbage, and rubbish along the roads, in the market area, and around the hospital. Through these actions, we wished to express our commitment to protecting and caring for our common home.
Moreover, on 15th January, during the tournament period, we celebrated the Feast of Saint Arnold Janssen at Saint Arnold Janssen Chapel, Longwili. During the Eucharistic celebration, the life of Saint Arnold Janssen, the SVD Congregation, and its missionary charism were shared with the youths and the Christian community. We hope that this celebration helped many young people and faithful to understand more deeply the SVD mission and its founder, inspiring them to continue praying, supporting, and possibly offering their lives for the mission.
Finally, we thank God Almighty for His love and mercy, which enabled us to organize this tournament successfully in peace and unity. We express our sincere gratitude to all benefactors who supported us through prayers and various contributions. In a special way, we thank our Mission Superior and Parish Priest of Holy Family Parish. Even while on holiday, he continually remembered us in prayer and sent his greetings and encouragement to all.