Another school year has ended. Young Lives Laos’ graduates had a send-off mass to bless them in their return to their communities. Towards a new journey where they can apply their learning and their faith.
The mass was held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral of Vientiane on March 22, 2020. The mass was presided by Cardinal Louis Marie Ling Mangkhanekhoun (the Apostolic Vicar of Vientiane) and Fr. Vimanphet Indavong (parish priest).
It was followed by a “Basi” ceremony”: a cultural ritual of giving blessings to the students and teachers. A simple program and fellowship were shared with few guests in compliance with the policy due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the small number of guests, the event was a very warm and intimate fellowship. We thank our partners who joined us in this event: Daughters of Charity, Sisters of Charity, some of our resource persons, and a priest from Thailand.
It was the graduates’ opportunity to share their learning and express their gratitude to the people who helped them grow. One graduate expressed:
“I feel happy and proud of myself, that now I can achieve one of my goals. This is the first step but it was a very meaningful step for me. I can see myself improved a lot in my knowledge. And also now, I realize the power of friendship. It is very important for us to live together.”
(Lar, female, Pakse Vicariate)