My Journey in the CAFE Program 2024

The group photo without me, of course, because I was the photographer 😀

Growing in Faith and Friendship

I joined the Chaplains and Animators Formation and Exchange (CAFE) Program 2024 to learn more about helping students in faith journey. The event took place from July 1 – July 5, 2024, at the International Youth Training Center in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

There were 21 of us, including chaplains, lay animators, and Catholic university students, from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and South Korea. Some participants joined online from Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The program helped me understand the mission of student accompaniment, find better ways to support students, and build strong connections with others in Asia Pacific.

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Prayer in the chapel

Starting the Journey

On July 1st, where Bertha Samphonu, the IMCS Asia Pacific Coordinator, welcomed the participants with an introduction and orientation session.

The next day, July 2nd, began with a beautiful Opening Mass, led by Fr. Pangkoj Nokrek, CSC. The day continued with inspiring talks from Fr. Jojo Fung, SJ, and Marina D’Costa, who shared their experiences of guiding students. Louisa Ho led a discussion where we talked about the challenges national movements face.

Later, Mr. Anselmo Lee from South Korea gave a talk on understanding regional realities and the identity of IMCS. We ended the day with a visit to Life Coffee, where I got to see how local villagers make coffee. it was a great cultural experience!

Visit Life Coffee

Deep Discussions and Learning

On July 3rd, Suman Ghale led a panel discussion, where we talked about the roles of chaplains and animators in guiding students. Some key challenges we discussed were:

• Building good relationships with students
• Keeping up with technology and AI
• Helping students stay spiritually strong
• Bridging the generation gap

We also learned about best practices from Fr. Miguel A. Garaizabal, SJ, who emphasized the importance of friendship, creativity, family support, and spiritual exercises. However, students still struggle with schedules, finances, and commitment.

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Learning from Catholic Teachings

On July 4th, Fr. Jesu Benjamine, SJ, from AICAF, India, spoke about Evangelii Gaudium, explaining that young people struggle with finding direction, confidence, and financial stability.

Next, Fr. Jiju Varghese, SJ, from IMCS Nepal, talked about Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum, explaining how faith and the environment are connected. He shared that we should be whole persons, work together, and go through spiritual and cultural transformation.

Then, Fr. Alpha Dung Pham, SJ, introduced Fratelli Tutti, reminding us that “No one is useless, and no one is expendable.” He encouraged us to create safe and caring spaces for students, where they feel loved and supported.

Later, Dr. Jessica Joy Candelario spoke about the Synod on Synodality, showing how listening, discernment, and dialogue can help us support students. Fr. Pangkoj Nokrek, CSC, closed the session by talking about Gaudete et Exsultate, reminding us to live with humility, mercy, and a thirst for justice.

Ending with Unity 

The last day of the program was filled with faith, culture, and reflection. We started the day with a Solidarity Mass, where people from 12 different countries joined together in prayer.

After the Mass, we explored Chiang Mai’s temples, learning about local traditions and spirituality. We also visited the Seven Fountains Center, a peaceful place that gave me time to reflect on my journey.

Visit Doi Suthep Temple, Chiang Mai

As the program ended, I felt grateful for the friendships I made, the lessons I learned, and the deeper connection I built with my faith. The CAFE Program 2024 was not just an event, it was a transformative experience.

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My Reflection

Being a co-facilitator and participant in the CAFÉ program has been an enriching journey, offering me numerous lessons and opportunities for growth. From event preparation to ongoing program management and post program evaluation, this experience has been instrumental in developing a range of skills. As a co-facilitator, I had the chance to enhance my teamwork abilities. The role required me to refine my media skills, including photography, reporting, and documentation. It also demanded effective time management and the capacity to connect with participants, addressing their needs and ensuring a supportive environment. These responsibilities have significantly improved my organizational skills and my ability to engage with a diverse group of individuals.

Participating in the program also broadened my perspective on global issues and taught me to approach organizational challenges with a critical mindset. The program was a platform for meeting new friends from various countries, understanding different national movements, and experiencing a vibrant exchange of ideas. I was particularly impressed by the program’s inclusive nature. Despite the diverse roles of chaplains, animators, and students, there was a remarkable sense of equality and unity among all participants. There was no hierarchy or division, everyone was actively involved, demonstrating critical thinking and friendliness.

Overall, the CAFÉ program has been a catalyst for building multicultural and multidimensional collaborations, especially within the IMCS Asia Pacific network. I am hopeful that the connections made and the insights gained will foster ongoing cooperation and understanding in our shared efforts for positive global change.

Cultural Night, it was wonderful night💕

In the airport, we sent off Fr. Jiju