My Magis 2023 experience provided me with profound insights into myself. It opened many doors to unique opportunities, filling my heart with joy and gratitude from day one until this moment as I write this reflection in my room at home.
Magis is a gathering organised by the Society of Jesus that brings together young adults from the Ignatian family across the world to celebrate “future, hope, and faith”. This major meeting happens in the 10 days leading up to World Youth Day. This year, the 10th edition of Magis was held from 22 to 31 July in Lisbon, Portugal, and centred on the theme “Creating a hope- filled future” in a world of uncertainty yet full of possibility.
I was moved by the diversity of individuals who exuded enthusiasm, open-mindedness, collaboration, and a shared commitment to making the most of this transformative experience. As I met and talked to fellow participants during the opening Mass, it became evident that we were all united by the same purpose – to find God in all things. I felt the presence of God, as if I had renewed my relationship with Him.
The event’s diverse range of activities was carefully designed to encourage all of us pilgrims to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unfamiliar. What was most memorable for me were a series of experiences in Portugal and Spain. In small groups, we underwent experiments in our chosen areas, either in Arts and Culture, Ecology and Environment, Faith and Spirituality, Pilgrimage and Journey, or Solidarity and Service.
I registered for Pilgrimage and Journey, which took place in the picturesque landscapes of Spain. With two other Thai friends, we started walking from Vigo, a city on Spain’s northwest coast, to Santiago de Compostela – the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region. In the midst of this challenging journey, the power of companionship shone brightly among the pilgrims. We began our beautiful days with prayer, followed by an hour of silent prayer during our walk. Subsequently, we had time for listening and sharing stories with one another until lunchtime, when we would stop at a river or a park to eat. Afterward, we resumed our journey to the parish church, our nightly destination. Evenings were marked by the Magis Circle, followed by Mass in a beautiful chapel, and concluded with the examen before bedtime.
It took us five days to walk 100 kilometres, finally arriving at our ultimate destination, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which is the reputed burial place of St James the Great, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. We hugged the statue of St James, enveloping him with the difficulties, sufferings, prayers, and intentions we carried with us on our journey. It was a touching moment I will always remember.
The Camino de Santiago opened my eyes to the limitless possibilities that arise when we step beyond our boundaries and embrace the unknown. It reminded me that growth is a continuous journey, one that requires curiosity, courage, and a willingness to learn from both ups and downs, lows and highs. Engaging in deep conversations with people whose life experiences were vastly different from mine broadened my horizons and encouraged me to re-evaluate my own perspectives. In silent moments, I found myself delving deep into my own values, dreams, and aspirations. In my silent prayer, the Ignatian spirituality of “finding God in all things” came to mind, providing me with a new lens through which to view my life’s and others’ journeys. I encountered peace of mind and appreciated the beauty in each moment.
I carry with me all the invaluable lessons I learned from my Magis journey and integrate them into my everyday life. I pray that God continues to shape and transform me little by little, enabling me to make meaningful contributions to my own community and beyond.
Sumit Choemue is a member of Magis Thailand and teaches English at Xavier Learning Community in Chiang Rai. He is passionate about English education, especially in teaching and learning in rural areas.