VICTORIA, Seychelles — A delegation of eight young Seychellois, accompanied by Father Christian Toulon, recently completed a pilgrimage to Mauritius under the theme ‘Avec Marie, soyons témoins de l’Espérance’ (With Mary, let us be witnesses of Hope). The week-long visit was rich in cultural, recreational and spiritual activities that left a lasting impression on the young participants.
The group was composed of Elizabeth George from Mont Fleuri, Della Louise from Plaisance, Amani Sinon from Anse Aux Pins, Samuel Damoo and Samuel Payet from Baie Lazare, and Josette Humphrey, Elish and Allister Bonne from Takamaka. On arrival at the airport, the delegation was warmly welcomed by the youth pastoral team of the Diocese of Port-Louis and the parish of Bambous. After being taken to the Saint-Sauveur church, the participants were hosted by different families, creating an immediate bond with the Mauritian faithful.
Highlights of the pilgrimage included a visit to Le Morne, an emblematic mountain in the south-west of the island symbolising the struggle against slavery and refuge of the ‘maroon slaves’, and a visit to the Sanctuary of Sainte-Croix, which houses the remains of Blessed Désiré Laval, regarded as the apostle of the Creoles of Mauritius. ‘On a spiritual level, the pilgrimage offered moments of intense fervour, particularly during praise sessions, masses, Eucharistic adoration and confessions. The young people were particularly impressed by the way their Mauritian counterparts expressed their faith in a vibrant and joyful way,’ said Father Christian. The recreational programme was equally lively, with film projections, a disco in the bus, traditional dances, songs and an exchange of gifts. The participants returned from the experience with hearts full of gratitude, praising the organisation and the hospitality of the families of Bambous.
