Jesuit Father Pradeep Perez leads a practical learning session during 4th MAGIS Bangla youth camp
The annual camp of a new Catholic youth movement run by Jesuits is providing a fresh approach to youth formation that is both fascinating and useful, many participants say. This year, around 70 students from across the country attended the MAGIS (Marching and Growing in Solidarity) Bangla camp which was held at St. Leo Church in Baromari in Mymensingh diocese from November 8-12. Conventional classroom-type activities made way for practical learning experiences such as bonding sessions, meditation, swimming, craftwork and sports. The alternative approach to youth formation focused on physical, mental and spiritual changes in young people to help them observe life more closely and learn from experiences in order to be more successful in their future careers. They were also expected to carry out the daily domestic chores including the cooking and cleaning. Participants said the camp was a great experience and they learned many things there. “It was my second time. It’s helped me discover myself and want to do good for people,” said Anny Rozario, 18 from Dhaka. Everything about the camp was very useful and practical, she added. Franklin Sarker, 21, from Khulna in south west Bangladesh was also impressed. “It was a very interesting camp. I’ve participated in diocese and national level youth gatherings which were boring since we were stuck in a classroom most of the time. Here we’ve learned practical skills, to be real human beings and respect one another,” he said. MAGIS Bangla animator and camp coordinator Jesuit Father Pradeep Perez said: “Over the years this spiritual movement has attracted many youths. Even their parents are very positive about the movement.” He said there were 72 places on the camp and 350 applicants which shows the movement is getting more and more popular. Related Reports: Catholics celebrate Tagore’s birthday Jesuits unveil their new Bangladesh mission