GENESIS'24 YOUTH FEST AT BANDEL BASILICA

 

     

Bandel Basilica, 17 November 2024: The highly anticipated Genesis'24 event, a youth-centric festival held on 17 November 2024 at the historic Bandel Basilica, was a remarkable day of community engagement, sportsmanship, and spiritual unity organized by the Youth of the Parish (SYM), in collaboration with volunteers, parish council members for youth, and young adults, and completed with remarkable success. The event brought together 21 parishes, fostering a spirit of community, celebration of faith, filled with energy, teamwork and creative expression.   

With the theme, "With God, everything is possible" (Lk 18:27), the festival showcased a dynamic lineup of events, each crafted to resonate with the participants' talents and dedication, which began after a solemn and uplifting Eucharistic celebration in a spirit of togetherness. 

Event Highlights

The youth of Bandel Basilica (SYM) organised this one-day event consisting  of Football (Kingsley Kickoff, 21 teams), Throw ball (Thunder Throws, 10 teams), Badminton (Sacred Smash, Mixed, 10 teams)  and Basketball (Heavenly Hoops, Mixed, 6 teams)  in the Don Bosco School premises.  There were more than four hundred youth who participated and engaged in various activities that celebrated both sportsmanship and artistry. 

The football matches, in particular, captured everyone’s attention, showcasing the extraordinary talent and teamwork of the players. Matches concluded by 5:30 p.m., leading to the much-anticipated closing ceremony.  These events not only tested the participants’ competitive edge but also encouraged them to explore the spiritual and artistic dimensions of their talents. 

Initially the organizers also planned to conduct: Street Play (Psalmistry), Dance (Gospel Grooves),  Singing (Majestic Melody), Open Style Cypher (Divine Dynamics), Photography (Lens of Love). Due to the lack of participants these events were cancelled.  

Community Participation and Spirit 

The collaboration between the youth and other groups ensured seamless execution and inclusivity throughout the day. Volunteers and parish council members played a pivotal role in organizing logistics, welcoming guests, and promoting a sense of belonging among all attendees. 

Participants from various institutions brought energy and enthusiasm, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Matches were intense, with spirited competition and enthusiastic spectators.  The diversity of events and activities reflected the organizers’ dedication to blending faith and fun, making the festival memorable for everyone involved. 

The evening ceremony began with a soulful performance of the Theme song, "In Your Grace", composed by Mrinmoy Murmu, a youth member, inspired by Psalm 139:7-10. 

Thereafter Fr. Siby Joseph Vadakel, SDB, Principal of Don Bosco Bandel and, Fr. John Chalil, Parish Priest of Bandel Basilica, inspired the audience with their words of words of encouragement and appreciation. 

The winners and runners-up in each category were celebrated for their achievements:  Badminton: St. John Boston's Parish Liluah; Throwball: St. Michael's Church, Premnagar; Basketball:   Christ the King Church, Park Circus; Football:  Sacred Heart Church, Burdwan.

The event concluded with a vibrant folk dance, where attendees joined in a joyful chain dance. This celebratory moment was a true testament to the unity and shared joy of the community. 

Genesis'24 proved to be an exemplary event that unified the youth under the shared banner of faith and creativity. The resounding success of the festival highlights the power of community and collective youth effort.  Looking forward, Genesis'24 has set a benchmark for future events, continuing to inspire and uplift the younger generation through such meaningful celebrations.