Xavier Learning Community in Chiang Rai brought together 81 freshmen and sophomore students from Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos for a five-day Ignatian Youth Camp. Guided by Fr Jboy Gonzales SJ and T Paul Loquias from Ateneo de Davao University, this camp marked a significant milestone as the first Ignatian Youth Camp conducted outside the Philippines.
Held from 21 to 25 October, the camp was rooted in the Magis programme, the youth ministry of the Society of Jesus. It sought to foster faith, community, and personal growth in young people as they engaged in a journey of self-discovery grounded in Ignatian values. Through prayers, reflections, and the sacraments, the students delved deeper into Ignatian Spirituality and were encouraged to serve the Lord in ways that reflect their unique gifts and circumstances.
Participants were divided into three groups or “houses”—Ignatius, Xavier, and Faber—each named after a significant figure in Jesuit history. Throughout their stay at the camp, they took part in challenging activities aimed at enhancing their teamwork and communication skills, while also learning about the importance of resilience and patience in mission.
“During one of the team-building activities, our group struggled with communication while trying to complete a role-play activity,” shared Nang Su Phyu, a first year student at Saengtham College-Xavier Campus Chiang Rai. “We didn’t have much time to prepare, and there were some misunderstandings within the group. We realised that we still didn’t fully understand teamwork. However, we did our best, and in the end, we performed very well. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration and how each person’s contribution strengthens the group. It also highlighted the value of being ‘a person for others,’ as I realised that supporting my team was more important than any individual achievement.”
Students also learned about St Ignatius of Loyola, St Francis Xavier, and St Peter Faber. The lives and contributions of the founding fathers of the Society provided a framework for participants to understand key Jesuit principles, such as discernment, humility, and solidarity, and how to apply them in daily life.
“A powerful experience for me was the examen prayer,” Nang Su Phyu reflected. “As I looked back on the day, I realised how even the smallest interactions with others, whether in conversation or in silence, were moments where I could find God. I learned three important phrases: ‘Choose forever,’ ‘Be prepared,’ and ‘Be responsible’. They taught me to find God in all things, which is a key Ignatian value. I came to understand that every experience, good or challenging, brings a lesson and an opportunity to grow. I feel strengthened in my sense of purpose and desire to live a life rooted in love, service, and reflection.”
One of the highlights of the camp was “Jamming with the Jesuits,” where students heard stories from Jesuits serving in the community. Their personal accounts illustrated the diverse paths within the Jesuit vocation and showed students various ways to live a life filled with purpose and service. Each house also presented their unique coat of arms, sharing the significance of the symbols and values represented in their designs. They then showcased their creativity through skits that highlighted the Jesuit values they had learned in the camp.
A memorable component was a pilgrimage inspired by Ignatian Spirituality, which emphasised the importance of the journey itself. This full-day experience encouraged participants to focus on the process rather than the destination, reflecting St Ignatius’ teachings on deepening one’s relationship with God. Along the pilgrimage route, students paused for moments of reflection and silence, practising mindfulness and learning to recognise God’s presence in their surroundings.
Aung Myint Soe shared that he gained many valuable insights about leadership. “I walked to Chiang Saen with my friends. Even though I was exhausted, I reminded myself of Fr Vinai’s advice to focus on the journey rather than the destination. Fr Jboy also encouraged us to support and be there for one another in every situation.”
He added that he had decided to continue doing the examen every day for five minutes to reflect and guide his actions. Working in a group, he said, taught him to appreciate different perspectives.
“I realised the importance of acknowledging different ideas, even those I didn’t initially agree with, to find the best solution. Working alone is not as good as doing things as a community or a group. Teamwork often leads to better ideas.”
The camp concluded with a vibrant cultural celebration and awards night titled “Ignite the Night,” where participants celebrated their diverse cultural backgrounds, talents, and accomplishments over the five days. Each house shared performances and received awards that acknowledged their contributions and growth throughout the camp.
