Cultural reconnection and deep conversations: Youth faith workshop with Jesuit novices

Youth from various indigenous communities in Upper Pulangi who previously studied and finished their basic education in APC came to Bendum and stayed in Balay Laudato Si’ from 30 May to 1 June 2024 to participate in a Youth Faith Workshop facilitated by APC staff and Jesuit novices.

The first day of the workshop was a heartfelt reunion, focusing on upholding cultural awareness and deepening connections among the participants. The opening activity “How are you? How have you been?” set the tone for the workshop by encouraging the youth to reconnect and catch up with one another.

This practice, known as lakēta in the Pulangiyēn culture, is a meaningful tradition of checking in on each other’s well-being. Participants shared their recent experiences, joys, challenges, and aspirations, touching on various aspects of life, including personal growth, school, work, faith, and community.

The conversations revealed a strong desire for genuine connection beyond surface-level interactions. The youth emphasized the importance of attentive listening and expressing sincere concern for one another. This practice not only strengthens friendships but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community.

The plenary session uncovered the shared struggles and hopes among the participants, highlighting common themes such as the need for personal growth, faith, family responsibilities, and the value of maintaining strong community ties.

The discussions also explored the significance of creating safe spaces for real and honest conversations. The participants recognized the necessity of trust and openness to share their true feelings and experiences. Such environments allow for deeper connections and understanding, which are vital for building a supportive and inclusive community.

Additionally, the importance of clear and intentional communication was a key takeaway. The youth discussed the value of being upfront and sincere in their interactions, avoiding hidden agendas that could harm relationships. Proficiency in the English language was identified as a useful tool for expressing themselves confidently and engaging in broader conversations about their culture and identity.

Discussions highlighted the importance of internalizing their culture, understanding it as a way of life rather than just external expressions. This internalization fosters a deeper appreciation and ownership of their cultural identity, encouraging them to advocate for their heritage with confidence and pride.

According to one participant, his inner being as Pulangiyēn comes before all manner of external expressions – no matter how grand or colorful they may seem. All the external things that speak of, pertain to, or represent parts of their culture, should always proceed from an internal identification and sense of being one with their culture.

Another participant affirmed that identity is not just about the buluhatun, like the rituals, as other tribes also have these. For him it is about how life is lived, what is done for a living, one’s personality and history. He said that knowing these things helps him understand where he is from and how he lives his life.

The activities emphasized the importance of staying connected with one’s cultural roots while embracing new opportunities for growth and learning. The participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to nurturing their cultural identity and community bonds. The youth look forward to further exploring their heritage and strengthening their connections with each other and the wider community in future workshops.