The group of youth and leaders who attended a 20-26 July jamboree in the Virgin Islands.

Over 100 young people and youth leaders from Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts, St. Croix, St. Thomas, Tortola and Virgin Gorda congregated on Tortola to say a warm “jambo” or “hello” to each other.

The jamboree was held at the St. George’s Secondary School’s campus at Palestina Estate from 20 – 26 July, under the theme, “Rooted in Christ; Firm in the Faith.”

On the first day of the jamboree, campers were left to clean up the mess caused by a tropical wave that dumped flooding rains on the islands. However, the pilgrims’ spirits could not be dampened. Instead, the experience taught them the true essence and rewards of teamwork and perseverance, having had to clean up the mud and debris left in the flood’s wake.

During the gathering, the participants were witnesses to presentations on “Who is Jesus?,” “Mass: A Teaching/Learning Session,” “How to be Rooted in Christ?” and “How to be firm in Faith.”

The young people also learned about the life of Saints and Catholic prayers, which help them to build and strengthen their relationships with others and with God. Additionally, through a series of workshops, they learned to express themselves and minister to others through visual art, music and drama.

They also travelled to Virgin Gorda to experience more of Nature’s Little Secrets and participated in a candlelight vigil through the streets of Palestina Estate, reflecting on their own life’s journeys and representing the light of Christ in the world.

When asked about the highlight of this year’s jamboree, Aenya Pemberton pointed out that it was Father Bob’s explanation of the person of Jesus. She also said that her expectations were exceeded and she enjoyed participating in the daily Masses. After jamboree, Aenya plans to apply what she has learnt to her daily life.

The youth jamboree closed off with the celebration of the holy Mass at St. William’s Catholic Church and a rousing closing ceremony at the jamboree site on Sunday.

Organizers and participants say a special thank you to the many individuals, businesses and organizations that helped to make this year’s Diocesan Youth Jamboree a success.