Youth Arise International Festival
Essen, Germany
11th – 14th August, 2005

Personal sharing from YAI 2005 Festival delegates

1. Mayrose Pius
   Jesus Youth, Melbourne, Australia
   
   YAI was one of a kind, an experience within an experience. Not a day goes by where we do not mention our times at YAI. Through thick and thin, Jesus was truly the only reason why I was so alive during those days. During my time there, one particular message I got was that “His grace was sufficient for me.” It’s a constant reminder for it is He who worked tremendously through you all. Your efforts, your commitment, your dedication and passion, the grace is was painted on the faces of your children depicts it all! I praise God for giving me an opportunity to have witnessed, to have experienced and taken His love from Essen, like a contagious gift, to spread to each and every soul we meet here in Australia.
   
   
2. Tiziano De Gregorio
   Rinnovamento nello Spirito Santo - Italy
   
   Essen was my first YAI and I was very happy. I will return to you. You are a friend to young people. Thank you for all. (Excuse me for my English I do not speak it well)
   
   
3. Jaisa Candelaria
   Youth Ministry , Parish of the Resurrection, Philippines
   
   The difficulties and challenges made this experience worthwhile and fun. It is not everyday that we experience this and I truly savor and cherish every moment in Germany. For me, the challenges did not impact only the physical and emotional but touched more importantly the spiritual aspect of my life.
   
   
4. David Panlilio
   Campus Ministry, Far Eastern University, Philippines
   
   As with every YAI and World Youth Day festivals in the past, there was a new molding of the spirit within me. Practically, there are no words to completely express the joy and happiness I had received during these events.
   
   
   
   
5. Angela Nibungco
   Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines
   
   It was a wonderful experience with my Ateneo delegation. While there were trying times, I learned a lot and got through it. Looking back, all those memories make the pilgrimage richer and more memorable. I am also happy that I met other delegates from other countries which is really a very rare experience. I am looking forward to Sydney 2008!
   
   
6. Myla Daelle Buena
   Christ’s Youth in Action, Philippines (3rd time attendee)
   
   My faith and relationship with the Lord was renewed again. He strengthened my call for youth ministry. It was another time for me to know myself better, my strength and weaknesses.
   
   
   
   
7. James Ian Abesamis
   Lingkod ng Panginoon, Philippines
   
   It was a very beautiful experience that let me know more about the common ness of how we express our faith. It is also encouraging to see other people from different countries exhibiting a strong sense of faith.