Pulangiyēn youth bridging tradition and faith on a synodal journey

From various sitios in Upper Pulangi, 37 Pulangiyēn youth embarked on a transformative journey in a workshop held at Balay Laudato Si’ in Bendum on 6 and 7 April 2024 and where they reflected on the interweaving of life, faith, and culture. Facilitated by six seminarians from the Saint John Vianney Theological Seminary in Cagayan de Oro City, the event was also a platform for the youth to share their unique experiences, challenges, and aspirations as they explored their rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted faith.

Central to the workshop was the concept of lakēta, a cultural practice of welcoming and receiving visitors with an open heart. This tradition emphasizes humility, kindness, and cultural pride, reinforcing the importance of hospitality in the Pulangiyēn community. The participants were reminded of their responsibility to uphold these values in the face of modern societal pressures.

Throughout the workshop, the youth engaged in activities that highlighted the intersection of their cultural identity and faith. From role plays exploring community concerns to sharing their personal “graced-history,” the participants reflected on their experiences of the sacred. They discussed the challenges of maintaining their cultural integrity amidst the influences of consumerism and technology, as well as the discrimination sometimes faced.

A significant focus was placed on the teachings of Laudato Si’, encouraging the youth to embrace a simple lifestyle and a deep connection with their ancestral land. The discussions emphasized the importance of investment in self, community, and God, advocating for a life of simplicity and gratitude. The youth expressed a strong desire to continue participating in such workshops, eager to live out their cultural values and engage in dialogue with other cultures.

The workshop included a Taizé reflection and prayer, where they experienced a deeper sense of unity and spiritual renewal. The solemnity of the evening, marked by prayer and contemplation, provided a space for the youth to connect with the Divine and reflect on the importance of simplicity and cultural grounding.

The Pulangiyēn youth workshop is a reminder of the importance of cultural continuity and faith in the face of modern challenges. Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper understanding of their culture, and a strengthened relationship with God and their community.