Don Bosco Youth Services, Salesian Province of Panjim, under the loving guidance of Father Austin Fernandes, hosted Exodus: The Lenten Journey at Dhyanlaya Monastery of the Immaculate Conception in Curtorim on March 1, 2026. This wasn't just an event, it was a profound encounter with God, helping youth prepare their hearts for Lent.



The retreat began with the captivating film on the Book of Exodus. It traced Moses' remarkable path from Egyptian prince to God's chosen liberator, showcasing the plagues, the Exodus, and God's unwavering love. The story hit home, God still calls each of us by name today.

Stirred by the film, participants gathered for Holy Eucharist. The homily on Jesus' Transfiguration urged personal change during Lent—not just sacrifices, but stepping into who God created us to be.



Post-Eucharistic celebration, everyone received custom booklets with key Exodus passages. Each included simple explanations, life applications, and reflective questions. In quiet moments, we penned our thoughts, listening deeply to God's whisper.

The afternoon brought a penitential Way of the Cross up the monastery hill. Pausing at each station, we prayed and meditated—the climb echoing our inner spiritual ascent, tough yet transformative.

This was followed with a fellowship session with the sisters, sharing our stories and learning about their vocation. Father Fernandes thanked the sisters for hosting this sacred space.

The day ended with the group photos, smiles, and heartfelt chats. But the real takeaway lingered in our hearts, a personal exodus toward renewal, illuminated by Scripture.

The fruitful retreat blended story, prayer, and community, igniting Lenten journeys of transformation.