By Caroline Liew
KENINGAU — The largest youth camp in Keningau Diocese will be held for five days from August 27 to 31 at the Church of St Patrick, Membakut.
On February 5, 150 youth from the different parishes and missions in the diocese gathered for the launch of the Sixth Keningau Youth Camp (KBK 6) with the theme Mary arose and went in haste (Luke 1:39) at Holy Spirit Church.
Bishop Cornelius Piong celebrated the Mass at the launch, with concelebrants Fr Ronnie Luni and Fr Boniface Kimsin.
Based on the Sunday readings, Bishop Cornelius Piong reminded them that we have an identity as witnesses of Jesus to be salt and light for those around us. He also called on the people, especially the youth who are preparing for KBK 6, to continue the spirit of journeying together and to always focus on three main things:
- Unity with Jesus,
- Unity or team cooperation
- Emulating Jesus’ ministry.
Bishop Cornelius emphasised the role of Mary, her caring attitude. After hearing the news that she was to be the mother of the Messiah, Mary rushed to visit her sister Elizabeth, who was also pregnant. Mary hurried to Elizabeth with Jesus in her because she cared about the needs of others. “May this kind of spirit be with us in being a witness to bring light and salt to the world.”
Roney Alfred, Keningau Youth Coordinator and Coordinator for KBK 6, hopes that this upcoming KBK 6 will lead the youth to rise up like Mother Mary and be witnesses of faith to the youths out there. He also said the launch was carried out so that all preparations for KBK 6, such as venue preparation, registration, fundraising and so on, could be started immediately.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, the logo and theme song for KBK 6 could not be launched during the Mass. It will take place at a separate event to be determined later.
Prior to the launch, representatives from each parish and mission gathered for a recollection at Holy Spirit Church, Sook.
Roney thanked everyone who was involved in making the 2023 TPBK Recollection and the launch of KBK 6 a success.
After the recap video of the last KBK, Bishop Cornelius launched KBK 6 with six strikes of the gong!
