By Marlinda Marcus Lundang, PDYN
PENANG — The Penang Diocesan Youth Network (PDYN) has taken the initiative to animate the Witness Nite, an event inspired by the World Youth Day theme for 2021, Stand up, I appoint you as a witness of what you have done (cf. Acts 26:16). This event gathered young adults and campus students alike via Zoom.
Attendee, Camilia Perera, recalled her experience during the event and shared this…
“On November 21, I attended WYD, Witness Nite. It started with praise and worship from the Seeds Ministry, followed by ‘I am a witness’, a testimonial sharing by Focolare Movement (they are also known as Youth4UnitedWorld).
“I was moved by the testimony given by one of the witnesses, a hotel chef, as I have also been an employee at a hotel for three years. When the MCO was announced on March 2020, many functions and rooms were cancelled and we had to donate 10 to 50 per cent of our salary to cover the hotel maintenance and to avoid the hotel closing down. I thank God that I am still employed, even with a reduction of salary, as I still have enough income to support my family. Hopefully, those struggling in one way or another will continue to persevere through this challenging time.
“So, getting back to the event, I especially enjoyed the ‘fun and games’ moments. It was such a precious time where I connected with other young people and had a good laugh.
“Last but not least, I learnt that the Fifth Penang Diocesan Youth Day is coming up and pretty soon, we’ll be having the launching of PDYD-5! I participated in PDYD-3 and PDYD-4, and now, I look forward to PDYD-5 next year. The event concluded with the final blessing by our beloved Fr Simon Anand, head of PDYN.”
Reuben Luke, who was also one of the emcees during Witness Nite, shared his experience.
“My experience of being an emcee during the Witness Nite was wonderful. It was my first time collaborating with PDYN and I loved it, and am looking forward for more events with the youths. I am one of those who fears public speaking. But yeah, I made it as an emcee confidently, thanks to the intercession of the Holy Spirit through all those present that night.
As to how I relate my experience of being an emcee with the World Youth Day, deep down, I felt WYD would have been better if it was experienced physically. Yet, I learnt and realised the importance of staying connected with each other in whatever ways possible, amidst the current challenges. I can also testify that World Youth Day as in Witness Nite has empowered me with the strength to overcome my fears and to improve myself, to use the gifts God has given to me.”
Penang Diocesan Youth Network (PDYN)
