Abu Dhabi – With the end of the school year, parishes across the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia are holding summer camps for Catholic children and young people in the UAE, Oman and Yemen . Despite the uncertainties that persisted until the last moment, many parishes have succeeded in organizing recreational activities, formation programs and joyful experiences for children and young people.
Summer camps are a long-standing tradition in the Vicariate, a statement sent to Fides News Agency explains, and this year, the camps have a particular significance following the difficult months recently experienced in the region, which affected social and ecclesial life, especially for children and families. As Apostolic Vicar Bishop Paolo Martinelli, OFM Cap., highlighted, “Being able to organize summer camps with hundreds of children is truly significant. It is a humble and concrete sign of a new beginning: life restarting and preparing to face the future with hope and courage.”
The summer camps bring together thousands of children in parish compounds for prayer, games, catechesis, educational activities, and moments of friendship and community life. Themes and programs vary from parish to parish, focusing on faith, family, peace, creation, and following Christ.
The camps are intended to offer far more than recreation. Through these initiatives, parish communities continue to accompany children and young people, offering them spaces where they can grow in faith, friendship, service, and
a sense of community – says the AVOSA communications office. Their success also depends on hundreds of adult volunteers, including university students and young workers, who dedicate their time to accompanying the children during this time.
“These young people are giving their time to the little ones. For them too, this is an opportunity to discover the beauty of a faith that becomes life, service, and love,” Bishop Martinelli said. “Dedicating our best energies to education is also one of the most concrete contributions we can offer to building lasting peace in hearts and among peoples. As Pope Leo recently recalled, ‘True peace begins in a heart that loves.’”
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