First Tuesday in Advent – December 03, 2024
Isaiah 11:1-10; Luke 10: 21-24

The commissioning of a journey, if it has to be an impelling proposal, has to enable persons have a glimpse of the destination. That is what the Word does today – invites us to gaze at the destination fixed, the Reign, where wolves live with the lambs, calves and lions feed together, the lion eats straw and young child plays with the cobra! For anyone who looks at this, it would be an impossibility, a utopia that has nothing to do with the reality. That is why the Gospel today says – you need those eyes to see it.

Seeing the Reign, requires the eyes of a child. When Jesus glorifies the Father for having made the revelation to the children, he is telling us inferentially that we need to develop the eyes of a child to behold the Reign.

Seeing the Reign, requires a heart that yearns for justice and peace. It is a condition where one goes beyond his or her own good and wellbeing, far from one’s own desire or dreams, looking at the good of all, especially that of the least, the last and lost. That is where exists the Reign.

Seeing the Reign requires that one see the way God sees everything – as God’s own! Everything, and everyone belongs to God and no one has the right to hurt the other; every being is inviolable. How difficult and problematic it is for human beings to see this? That is why the Reign remains still a farfetched dream. Can we really see what the Lord wants us to see – the Reign? Can we at least begin our efforts to see it?

Fr Antony Christy is a Salesian Priest from 2005 and has a Masters in Philosophy (specialisation in Religion) and a Masters in Theology (specialisation in Catechetics). He has a Doctorate in Theology with specialisation in Catechetics and youth ministry at Salesian Pontifical University, Rome. Walking with the young towards a World of Peace and dialogue is the passion that fires him.

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Fr Antony Christy, SDB –

First Monday in Advent – December 02, 2024
Isaiah 2:1-5; Matthew 8: 5-11

The commissioning of a journey consists in primarily declaring the destination of it – where to? That is what this pilgrimage begins with too. The Word today clarifies that we are on a journey towards the Reign of God. Jesus is on a journey, in the Gospel today, as he is most of the time pictured in the Gospels. His whole life was a journey, not only his.

Our whole life is a journey too, a pilgrimage, a pilgrimage of hope towards the Reign, the salvific hope that is presented to every being created in the love of God. It is not about where we begin, from where we come, when we began and so on, that matter – but that we are determined to journey towards the Reign. For Jesus bursts the bubble of privilege, and sets the ground plain for everyone: many will come from east and west to take their places at the feast of the Reign!

Come let us go to the mountain of the Lord, the call is so clear and loud. Three important attributes of this call: to begin with, that we rejoice in that journey; secondly, that we journey together, forgetting our differences and disputes, leaving behind our scuffles and squabbles; and finally, that we walk in the light of the Lord.

It is not about somehow reaching the destination, in fact in this case, we cannot because it is the Lord himself who will adjudicate. The choice we need to make right at the beginning of this journey, is to fix our minds, our hearts and our feet on the way of the Lord, that our journey leads us to the house of the Lord.

Fr Antony Christy is a Salesian Priest from 2005 and has a Masters in Philosophy (specialisation in Religion) and a Masters in Theology (specialisation in Catechetics). He has a Doctorate in Theology with specialisation in Catechetics and youth ministry at Salesian Pontifical University, Rome. Walking with the young towards a World of Peace and dialogue is the passion that fires him.

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Fr Antony Christy, SDB –

First Sunday in Advent – December 01, 2024
Jeremiah 33:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 3:12 – 4:2; Luke 21: 25-28, 34-36

Let us wish ourselves a Happy New Year! A happy new liturgical year! And this year’s Advent, apart from ushering in the new liturgical year, gives us another special commission too, it commissions us a journey towards the Jubilee Year, the threshold of which shall coincide with the celebrations of the Nativity of our Lord this year.

We are challenged to be Pilgrims of Hope… and the upcoming year shall encapsulate that vocation in a myriad of ways, but the journey begins now. That is why, this Advent can be very well considered a Pilgrimage of Hope! And that certainly coincides with this first Sunday of Advent, the Sunday dedicated to the theme of hope. The Word this Sunday invites us to understand this commission, this call for a pilgrimage of hope in its depth. The pilgrimage has begun, with the commission of this journey.

The Journey begins, as everything, with God! God has raised us and God has convoked us to this journey. Jeremiah speaks of this in the metaphor of raising up a righteous branch – the Lord-our-integrity raises up the branch for David and that branch shall reign. The Raise, is a promise, and that promise is the foundation of hope, for the Lord is righteousness and integrity. Our minds, our hearts, our spirits are raised, and it is the most rudimentary meaning of advent, which invites us to see everything from the point of view of God, God’s promise and its fulfillment – the stock of Jesse, the branch of David, the Lord our Saviour.

The Journey is all about a reaffirmation, from the Lord who increases our love for each other and confirms our hearts in holiness and righteousness, after the Lord’s own heart. This Reaffirmation, is all about reassuring us on our journey that we are on the right track, or even if we have spotted ourselves drifting that we are not clueless about the return. We know the coordinates – love of God and love for one another, which alone can make us holy and blameless before God! The key is in learning to see the mercies of the Lord that surround us. The journey that we begin this day, is not a lonesome adventure. We are accompanied – the by the very One who has commissioned this journey, and the co-pilgrims who are commissioned along with us. Our responsibility is twofold – that we recognize with hope this commission we are presented with, and secondly, we share this hope with every co-sojourner along this pilgrimage.

The Journey is ultimately about our rising, being enlivened by the call of the Lord to “stay awake”, “to stand with confidence”, and “to stand erect and hold our heads high,” come what may. The Rise, is not about an escape from fearsome happenings, but it is all about looking at that liberation that is brought to us by the Son of Man. The Saviour shall come with glory and power, and those shall become ours too – depending on the assent that we give to the Lord who reveals, the Lord who has inaugurated this pilgrimage of hope, right when he spoke of the Reign. This is actively our response, while the first two were what God would do for us – while it is the Lord who would raise us up and reaffirm us, it is we, who have to rise; we have to decide to rise! To rise and shine, that we may make this journey, this pilgrimage of hope.

The first week shall underscore for us the commission of this journey – explicating right at the outset the nature, the destination, the expectations and so on, related to this pilgrimage. Being a pilgrimage of hope, it has to be filled with the presence of the Lord. And that is what we ask of the Lord this day – that the Lord accompanies us in this journey commission by the Lord himself, a pilgrimage of hope.

Fr Antony Christy is a Salesian Priest from 2005 and has a Masters in Philosophy (specialisation in Religion) and a Masters in Theology (specialisation in Catechetics). He has a Doctorate in Theology with specialisation in Catechetics and youth ministry at Salesian Pontifical University, Rome. Walking with the young towards a World of Peace and dialogue is the passion that fires him.

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Bandel Basilica:

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.

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.

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.

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The Youth Flag, designed by Ankit Paul Tigga, was inspired by the creativity of Paul Lakra, Monica Juli, Samarth Beck, and many other youth of the diocese. With its vibrant colours of orange, yellow, and green, the flag represents growth, light, and hope. The dove of peace, crown of thorns, and cross reflect the core values of the youth ministry, while the procession of people carrying crosses symbolizes the shared journey of the youth as they walk together in faith.

The realization of this Youth Flag was the culmination of a long-held dream and prayer. Thanks to the dedicated leadership of the Diocesan Youth Executive Committee (DEXCO), the vision of the flag became a reality. Under the guidance of Fr. Dominic Pinto (Diocesan Youth Director), Sr. Rajini Tigga (Diocesan Youth Lady Animator), Fr. Arun Coth (Assistant Youth Director), and Mr. Aryan Lawrance (Diocesan Youth President), this vision was brought to life. They led with unwavering passion, helping the youth embrace their faith in new and exciting ways.

The creation of the flag also benefited from the valuable support of Mr. Ajay Dominic Dahanga, the Youth Advisor, whose expertise provided valuable guidance to the Ad-Hoc Team. Led by Sheryl Swing and Roshan, the Ad-Hoc team took charge of the technical aspects of the event, ensuring that every detail was perfectly executed.

The Bible Festival 2024 began on November 16 with a Eucharistic Adoration and a Bible procession, led by Nikhil Tirkey. The welcome address by Rikki Dhawan set the tone for the two-day event, while Ms. Silvia Lawrence Joseph and Adv. Nivedita worked behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly. The Ad-Hoc Team took charge of the event logistics, while Sheryl Swing and Roshan Kujur handled the technical setup, ensuring flawless execution.

The festival was filled with a variety of engaging competitions, including Bible Recitation, Group Singing, Pencil Sketching, and Biblical Soft Board Decoration. These activities highlighted the creativity, enthusiasm, and biblical knowledge of the youth. A Bible Quiz, hosted by Abhishek Benedict and Judith Ann Benedict, put the participants’ knowledge to the test in a fun and challenging way.

The second day began with a Holy Mass, celebrated by Fr. Denis Naresh Lobo, Vicar General of the Diocese of Lucknow. His uplifting sermon reminded the youth that they are the present and future of the Church, urging them to live out their faith with purpose, especially as Christ’s return is promised.

A special session on the importance of the Bible, led by Fr. Andrew D’Cunha, Parish Priest of St. Dominic Savio Church, emphasized how the Scriptures guide our lives and help us face challenges with strength. His reflections inspired the youth to embrace the Word of God and live with faith.

Throughout the event, Ms. Anupma Khushbu Soren took charge of the liturgical aspects, ensuring that prayer and spirituality remained central throughout the festival. Her efforts helped bind the youth in prayer and devotion, creating a spiritually enriching environment for everyone involved.

The festival also featured exciting performances, including the Folk Fusion Group Dance, Duet Singing, Saints Fashion Show, and a Biblical Skit. These performances not only showcased the youth’s creativity but also celebrated their Catholic identity in a lively and fun way.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Fr. Dominic Pinto, who expressed gratitude to all those who made the festival a success. Special mention was made of the alumni who returned to support the event, including Ajay Dominic Dahanga, Abhishek Benedict, Clinton Massey, Sajjan Francis, Isha Marandi, Aman Hembrom, Samuel Massey, and Dolly Joseph. Their continued support is a testament to the lasting impact of the youth ministry in the diocese.

The prize distribution ceremony crowned Holy Redeemer Church as the Overall champion, with St. Joseph’s Cathedral Church securing the first runner-up title, and Our Lady of Graces Church taking home the second runner-up position. These awards celebrated the hard work, creativity, and spirit of the youth throughout the event.

In addition to their contributions, the media coverage was taken care of by Godwin Massey and Rikki Dhawan, who captured the festival’s moments on camera and shared them with the wider community. Their efforts helped bring the event to life through visuals that will serve as lasting memories for all participants.

The LDYC Youth Flag now proudly stands as a symbol of unity, faith, and hope for the youth of the Diocese of Lucknow. It represents their commitment to following Christ and spreading His love throughout the world. This flag is not just a symbol – it is a reminder of the vibrant and active role the youth play in the Church today.

The success of this event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the Diocesan Youth Executive Committee (DEXCO), the Ad-Hoc Team, the Alumni, and all the volunteers who contributed their time and energy. The LDYC Youth Flag will continue to inspire the youth of the diocese to live out their faith with passion and purpose.

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Guwahati, Assam: The Sixth National Youth Conference, organized by the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), recently concluded in Jalandhar, Punjab, from October 21 to 25, 2024. This year’s gathering was particularly significant as it saw the highest representation from Northeast India, with 104 youth leaders participating among a total of 653 delegates from 132 Latin dioceses across India.

A Transformative Experience for Youth

Held at Trinity College, the conference aimed to deepen participants’ spiritual journeys and foster connections among youth leaders. Jonah Chithung, the Regional Youth President of ICYM Northeast, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “This conference was an invaluable opportunity for us,” highlighting its role in shaping future leaders within the Church.

Northeast youth were not just participants but also key contributors to the conference’s activities. They led various initiatives, including choir performances and Taize prayers, showcasing their commitment and passion for their faith. Father John Barman MSFS, the ICYM Northeast Regional Youth Director, praised their engagement: “Their involvement speaks volumes about their commitment and passion.”

Emphasizing Hope and Resilience

The theme of this year’s conference was “The Role of Youth in the Synodal Church,” focusing on the virtue of hope. Participants found inspiration in the biblical verse from Isaiah 40:31: “Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary.” Ms. Thounaojam Kereni Prisca from Imphal Archdiocese shared how this message resonated with her, emphasizing that faith in God provides strength during challenging times.

In recognition of their hard work and dedication, two youth delegates from each region were awarded for their contributions. From the Northeast, Ms. Daisy Zomuankimi from Aizwal Diocese and Mr. Paul Magh from Kohima Diocese were honored for their exceptional commitment.

Cultural Exchange and Community Building

The conference also served as a platform for cultural exchange. Stalls showcasing traditional clothing and delicacies from Northeast India drew significant interest from attendees, fostering a spirit of unity and understanding among diverse groups. Following the conference, many participants explored local landmarks such as Amritsar and the Wagah border, marking a memorable experience for those traveling outside their region for the first time.

Sister Wansuk Lungdoh MSMHC played a crucial role in coordinating the trip, ensuring that delegates had a smooth experience throughout the event. The conference also included prayers for peace in Manipur, reflecting a commitment to fostering understanding among affected communities.

A Vision for the Future

This year’s conference was unique as it allowed each diocese to send double the usual number of delegates due to ICYM’s silver jubilee celebration. The gathering included over 100 priests, 50 religious sisters, and four bishops, reinforcing the message that grounded in God’s love, youth can truly transform society.

Attendees left with positive reflections on their experiences at the conference. It was seen as an ideal environment for establishing meaningful connections and broadening perspectives on faith and community service.

The ICYM continues to operate under the CCBI Commission for Youth with a mission to empower young people across Latin rite parishes in India. Since its inception in 2000, ICYM has been dedicated to fostering holistic growth among youth while promoting dialogue and mutual respect across different religions.

This conference not only highlighted the vibrant participation of Northeast youth but also underscored ICYM’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young leaders as vital contributors to building a “Synodal” church and an inclusive society.

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Tinsukia, in the north eastern state of Assam, is an industrial city situated 480 kilometres north-east of Guwahati and 84 kilometres away from the border with Arunachal Pradesh.

The event, organized under the YaR (Young at Risk) Campaign and led by Fr. Blasius Tete, YaR Coordinator of the Dimapur Province, brought together 51 school dropout girls who are now preparing for their Class 10 examinations.

The campaign, titled “Family is Where I Belong” and “Safe Migration”, ran from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., offering the participants insightful discussions and guidance on various life issues. Fr. Blasius Tete, the animator of the session, addressed critical topics that resonate deeply with the participants’ daily lives, including:

• Childhood and Family: The importance of a nurturing environment for a child’s holistic development.
• Teenage and Family: Navigating the challenges of adolescence with the support and understanding of family.
• Adulthood and Family: Recognizing the value of family bonds as one transitions into adulthood.
• Infatuation, Friendship, and Study: Understanding emotional boundaries and focusing on education as the foundation for a stable future.
• Emotional Hygiene and Self-Care: Teaching the girls to manage emotions and prioritize their mental well-being.
• “Hormones, Genes, and Behaviour” explores how biological factors influence how we think, feel, and act.
• Safe Migration: Empowering the girls with knowledge about the dangers of unsafe migration and how to protect themselves when seeking opportunities away from home.

Throughout the session, the girls engaged with Fr. Blasius in open discussions, gaining valuable insights into building a supportive family environment and making informed life decisions.

The campaign also emphasized the need for Safe Migration practices, ensuring that the participants are equipped with essential knowledge to prevent the risks associated with unsafe travel for work or education. As many young people face migration challenges, Fr. Blasius shed light on how to stay safe while pursuing better opportunities.

At the conclusion of the event, the girls and the animator gathered for a group photo, marking the end of a productive and meaningful campaign. This experience not only provided them with guidance for their upcoming exams but also instilled in them a sense of belonging, self-worth, and future aspirations.

The YaR Campaign continues to play a vital role in uplifting and supporting at-risk youth, particularly girls, as they navigate through life’s challenges with the hope of building a brighter future.

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Shillong: Ibahunlang Nongrum, a young female member of St. Paul’s Parish in Upper Shillong from the Archdiocese of Shillong, embarked on an extraordinary solo trip to Taizé, France, from May 29 to August 14, 2024. This journey was inspired by her longstanding dream of volunteering at the renowned Christian community, celebrated for its focus on prayer, meditation, and music. “I received a phone call that excited me—an international solo trip to France; the land of bread and cheese,” she recalled enthusiastically.

Upon arrival at the airport in France, Ibahunlang was greeted by a friendly volunteer holding a name board with her name. This warm welcome set the tone for her adventure, while she marveled at the sunny weather, advanced technology, and delectable French cuisine. “Seeing my name on one of the name boards held by a volunteer from Taizé thrilled me,” she said, expressing her excitement about the experience.

In Taizé, Ibahunlang connected with individuals from diverse nationalities, races, denominations, and cultural backgrounds. “Spending time connecting with them made me realize that, while we are all unique, the obstacles and struggles we face are universal,” she noted, reflecting on the profound lessons learned through her interactions.

A significant highlight of her experience was being selected for the singing support team, where she joyfully sang Taizé chants in multiple languages. “Singing those Taizé chants in several languages is such a thrill,” she exclaimed, underscoring how this opportunity reinforced her faith and brought her closer to her Creator.

Ibahunlang also volunteered in the El-Abiodh kitchen, assisting in meal preparation for fellow participants. “Lending a hand gives me great satisfaction,” she shared, recalling the fun and camaraderie fostered while working as part of a team.

The brothers and sisters at Taizé, who looked after the participants, embodied love, kindness, humility, and generosity. Ibahunlang was touched by their friendly smiles and the sense of belonging they provided. “I was drawn in by their friendly smiles and felt like I belonged,” she said, highlighting the warm atmosphere of the Taizé community.

A standout moment of her stay was participating in “Prayer around the Cross,” where the lyrics and melodies of the songs prompted her to reflect on her life and identity. “The song lyrics and melody led me to ponder more about my life,” she explained, revealing how this experience helped her find answers to some lingering existential questions.

Ibahunlang expressed gratitude to several individuals and organizations that supported her journey, including Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh of the Shillong Archdiocese and the Parish Priest of St. Paul’s Parish, Father Tobias Kharngapkynta,. “I sincerely thank everyone for being so kind and considerate and supporting me throughout my journey,” she stated.

Fr. John Barman, Director of NERYC, remarked, “Taizé prayer is an integral part of our ICYM-NE. Shillong has a strong Taizé team, and her experience will further enrich the youth in Northeast India.”

Her three-month stay in Taizé has left a lasting impact on Ibahunlang. “Taizé and its people will always hold a special place in my heart,” she affirmed, as she continues to grow in faith and service.

At Taizé, volunteers, aged 18 to 29, engage in various practical tasks to support youth meetings. However, volunteering first and foremost offers an opportunity for personal reflection, regular community prayer, and sharing experiences with others. Each volunteer meets regularly with one of the sisters (for women) or brothers (for men) to discuss their thoughts and questions.

Becoming a volunteer at Taizé involves: Actively participating in daily community prayers, Being available for various tasks and services during the meetings, Contributing to and enriching the common life of the group.

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Tura: The Young Catholic Students (YCS) movement is gaining remarkable traction in Northeast India, particularly highlighted by a recent two-day training and animation program held in Tura Diocese on October 5 and 6, 2024. Tura is a municipality in the West Garo Hills district of the Indian state of Meghalaya.

Despite challenging weather conditions, young participants from five parishes—St. Luke’s Walbagre, St. Mary’s Araimile, Sacred Heart Shrine Chandmari, St. Sebastian Danakgre, and St. Dominic Garobadha—came together at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre in Walbagre to engage in this transformative experience.

The YCS movement targets teenagers and adolescents, encouraging them to form small groups of 8-10 members. Its foundational methodology, SEE, JUDGE, ACT, promotes awareness, reflection, action, and evaluation, empowering participants to confront the challenges they face in their daily lives. This approach not only fosters personal growth but also cultivates a sense of community among the youth.

During the training sessions, discussions focused on the myriad challenges confronting today’s teenagers. Esteemed resource persons such as Sister Wansuk Mary Lyngdoh (Regional YCS/YSM Coordinator), Ms. Alva Khyriem (former YCS/YSM Regional President), and Mr. Janseng N Sangma (YCS/YSM Animator for Tura Diocese) led engaging sessions that included group dynamics, activities, role plays, and interactive discussions. These activities encouraged students to share their perspectives, fostering creativity and resilience as they navigated life’s complexities.

Kadisa R Marak from St. Mary’s Araimile expressed her enthusiasm: “This program made me feel confident in myself. It allowed everyone to express their views and improved my social life. I learned to respect everyone.” Similarly, Amasa R Marak from Sherwood Secondary School Tura highlighted the spiritual enrichment she experienced: “I would definitely come here again; there’s a spiritual experience in everything we do.”

The inaugural function featured Bishop Andrew Marak of Tura Diocese, who set an uplifting tone for the event by sharing his personal faith journey. He stressed the importance of regular Mass attendance and Sunday school as vital components for nurturing Catholic faith among teenagers.

On the final day of the program, Father Lyndoh T Sangma conducted sessions on “The Importance of Prayer and the Holy Eucharist.” He motivated students to uphold the spirit of the YCS movement and assured them that more programs would be organized for this often-overlooked age group.

Simultaneously on October 6, 2024, the Kohima Diocese organized its own YCS orientation program at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral Parish, attracting over 65 students. This event aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the YCS’s essence and significance. Resource person Mrs. Neisevonuo Anna (former YCS coordinator) emphasized the importance of community engagement in her discussions.

Ms. Veronica Nriame remarked that this orientation served as a precursor to a more comprehensive training program scheduled for October 13, 2024, inviting students to actively participate for further insights into the movement.

As the YCS/YSM movement continues to flourish across Northeast India, it holds significant promise for young Catholics in the region. Fr. John Barman, NE Regional Youth Director, articulated this sentiment: “The YCS movement is lighting the path for young Catholics across the region, fostering community, faith, and resilience in facing contemporary challenges.”

Through innovative training programs and a commitment to empowering youth, the YCS movement is not only addressing immediate concerns but also cultivating a generation poised to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. This momentum signals a hopeful future where young voices are heard and valued within both their church communities and society at large

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As India celebrates its 78th year of Independence, the challenges faced by the youth remain significant. Issues such as unemployment, drug abuse, human trafficking, and psychological pressures from broken family systems and workplace stress are prevalent. This raises the question: Is the situation different for Catholic youth?

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with several Catholic youth who were raised in traditional Catholic families, nurtured in a religious environment, and educated in Catechism. Despite this foundation, many expressed disillusionment with the Church. Key concerns included the perception of meaningless rituals, superficial celebrations of festivals, a dictatorial attitude from clergy, neglect of youth and laity, a lack of transparency in church administration, and the troubling issue of clerical sexual abuse.

The Pope’s Call to Action

Pope Francis, during the World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro in 2013, delivered a powerful message that resonates today. He stated, “I want a mess. I want trouble in the dioceses. I want to see the local church getting closer to the people.” This call was not a condemnation but an invitation for youth to engage actively in the Church, challenging the status quo and fostering a closer connection to the community.

He emphasized the importance of recognizing the inequalities in the world and urged the youth not to succumb to discouragement. “Never yield to discouragement, do not lose trust and do not allow your hope to be extinguished,” he said, reminding them of their vital role in the Church and society.

Embracing the Challenge

Pope Francis has consistently advocated for a Church that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of its members. He criticized the “culture of selfishness and individualism,” calling on those with resources to share and support the marginalized. His actions reflect a commitment to transparency, accountability, and compassion, aligning with the core values of Catholicism.

In light of this, Catholic youth are encouraged to interpret the Pope’s words as a mandate for personal and social transformation. They must embrace their potential as catalysts for change within the Church.

Leadership and Engagement

Church leaders in India must heed the Pope’s call and actively involve youth in shaping the future of the Church. This includes encouraging their participation in decision-making processes and recognizing their contributions to parish life.

Here are some actionable suggestions for Catholic youth to foster positive change in their parishes and dioceses:

Involvement in Planning: Advocate for inclusion in planning and decision-making committees to implement developmental projects that benefit the poorest members of society.

Resource Mobilization: Encourage the use of church properties to generate income, focusing on local resource mobilization to achieve self-reliance within the parish.

Sustainable Development: Urge the diocesan administration to prioritize simple, eco-friendly construction projects over extravagant building initiatives, ensuring that resources are directed towards community needs.

Transparency in Finances: Demand transparency by requesting the circulation of annual reports and audited accounts within parishes, fostering trust and accountability.

Liturgical Participation: Take an active role in liturgical committees to ensure that celebrations are meaningful, participatory, and reflective of the community’s culture.

Minimising Extravagance: Propose a reduction in extravagant celebrations during festivals, redirecting efforts towards community service initiatives that have a lasting impact, such as health camps and educational support for the underprivileged.

Accountability Measures: Establish an annual performance appraisal system for parish priests and bishops to enhance accountability and ensure responsible leadership.

A Call to Serve

In the spirit of Swami Vivekananda’s call to action, Catholic youth are urged to serve their communities with zeal and enthusiasm. They are reminded that true fulfillment comes from serving others and addressing the needs of those who are marginalized and suffering.

Pope Francis’ vision for a Church that is vibrant, inclusive, and actively engaged with the world is a challenge for today’s Catholic youth. By embracing their role as catalysts of change, they can help transform the Church into a beacon of hope and service, embodying the true essence of their faith. In doing so, they will not only revitalize their own spiritual lives but also inspire others to join in the mission of Christ.

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