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On VMY Eastern European Countries Meeting (Syniak)

Vincentian Marian Youth Eastern European Countries Meeting was held in the village of Syniak located in Zakarpattia oblast since April 28 till May 1. Talking to young people from different countries present at this congress I heard only good and positive feedback. All of them were satisfied. This meeting helped us to strengthen the faith. We heard and got to know once again that we are the youth of Mary and always will be under her care.

This meeting became for us a new breath and incentive for acts of charity and deepening reflection. Every day young people worked in groups and discussed various topics on what mean Mary, St. Vincent de Paul for us and the value of the Congregation of the Mission and the Daughters of Charity. This is a good way to share own opinions, experiences, good and love with other nations. Despite the fact that we were not acquainted and to some extent limited with knowledge of foreign languages, we felt spiritual unity with others, we are united by common prayer and love for Jesus and Mary.

During these days we deeply meditated on why Eastern Europe countries must meet in this format. Actually this was discussed at the conferences the topics of which were Slavic and Vincentian identities. It reminded us very well the gift  and heritage left by the Saints Cyril and Methodius for us, when they came to the Slavic lands and transferred/translated for us the Word of God, the word of Jesus Christ, so that we might know, understand, and love Him… This heritage and devotion of Slavic peoples could not be overcome by different enemies for centuries. We need to mutually encourage each other in order not to lose that gift and heritage, and we are united in this with Vincentian Family, Vincentian Charism, and especially with this anniversary year for all of us – the 400th anniversary of Vincentian spirituality.

It was not the first time I participated in such events, but these days of concentration became special for me. They strengthened our faith and raised our hopes for the best, that we will never be alone, there always be our friends who share our feelings and thoughts. It was not just a meeting; it was something more for me. It was a soul revival and faith renewal. Our community should bear the peace and the love of Jesus given by Mary to us into the world. We strive to bring more people to our community, gift this love … and it’s worth it. Unfortunately, this world is full of evil and hypocrisy now. Vincentian Marian Youth aims to be the rays of light that carry harmony and charity. We belong to Vincentian Family; we must be open to all regardless of person’s past or present. Everyone deserves love and support and we need to try to give it to everyone.

The youth should not lose heart as we always should know and remember that we are under the protection of Our Lady and her Son.

I would like to sincerely thank to the organizers, benefactors and people who made this meeting warm and friendly.

Anna Horodchuk, Snyatyn

P.S. Some interesting photos from this event and posts you can find on Facebook under the hashtag #eevmy2017

28.04-1.05/2017

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