" GROWING

IN THE SPIRIT $ TO BE A DISCIPLE

AND MAKE DISCIPLES  SETTING
ON FIRE
HEARTS
! GLOBAL
NEWSWATCH

JESUSYOUTH
OCTOBER 2006

International Newsletter

Built on
the rock
A MISSIONARY MOVEMENT AT THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH

KEEPING THE FAITH IN AN AGE OF THE DICTATORSHIP OF RELATIVISM

But how can you say there’s one truth? Doesn’t the truth depend on your perspective? How can you be
Christians and discriminate against homosexuals? It’s all the same; every road leads to God. This might
be wrong in your culture and situation, but here, its alright. You are talking of a Stone Age morality in
this space age world!
These remarks, to an extent, reveal the dilemma that Christians face in today’s world. The dividing line between
right and wrong is blurred to the point of almost not being there. Suddenly, there are issues ranging from new
developments in science like stem cell research, to issues on sexuality that make it difficult for the Christian
to find his ground. And whether we like it or not, these attitudes are seeping into the most basic realities of
our everyday existence. They intrude into our families, careers, faith, friendships, society and politics. In fact,
they revolve around the denial of an absolute truth and the establishment of a pragmatic, self-centered world
view. A viewpoint from where morality or faith depends on one’s preferences and conveniences. This viewpoint,

Dear young friends
of Jesus,
It is a great joy
for me to scribble
a few lines for the
Jesus Youth International Newsletter. I
have great interest in reading this
news bulletin as it gives an overall
picture of what is happening in this
movement, which is so dear to me.
I have had great experience of the
many initiatives youth take, in different
aspects of life situations, but more so in
personal and spiritual renewal. This is
possible because Jesus has become a
personal God for many young people.
He is not merely someone whose
teachings have relevance in today’s life,
to be admired; more than that He is a
God to be loved, imitated and lived
with. This is the greatness and
specificity of Jesus Youth.
I pray for the outpouring of the Holy
Spirit on all Jesus Youth animators, so
that they are guided by the Spirit to
move on with the youth for the
evangelization of the world.
With warm and prayerful regards,
+ Most Rev. Abraham Viruthakulangara
Archbishop of Nagpur
HEART TALK
Often while visiting various countries for the re-constitution of their Jesus Youth
National team, I have noticed a very relaxed ambience as I sit with the outgoing team.
Their faces reveal their thoughts: ”Thank God. It will soon be over’. Each time I witness
this, I am reminded of TGIF (Thank God it’s Friday) - a famous food chain in the US.
People work hard Monday through Friday, and wait for Friday to get a break. However,
I believe Christian leadership is very different and it has two aspects.
1. God calls you and anoints you as a leader to build His Kingdom here.
2. People recognize that call and choose you specially to lead them in a special
way with a particular responsibility for a specific time.
Even when we finish the term of responsibility, the first aspect - God’s call to serve
His people - remains the same; only the second aspect changes. We must also
remember that God calls individuals for His mission, and not committees/teams. Such groups are formed at
a later stage for specific assignments. So, let our response as leaders always be: “Here I am, Lord, ready for
my next mission. Continue to use me.”
Often I have seen that even when God’s call is heard clearly, and it is obvious that people have chosen them,
many potential leaders hesitate to say ‘yes’ because of the misgivings they harbour as they look at their life
situations and see the many difficulties that present themselves. The truth is that when we say ‘Yes’, a special
grace is showered on us to help us accomplish His mission in accordance with His will; a grace that surpasses
all our weaknesses and limitations; a grace that enables us to overcome all difficulties and problems.
Many a time I have come across leaders who find their call a burden. Undoubtedly, a closer look reveals
unaffordable investments they have made in houses, and other things, and even though they desire it,
they are unable to find time for the ministry, as they are forced to work over time trying to secure such
perishable investments and savings. As leaders we should always seek God’s will with regard to any
investment we make. Then as we live out our call, we will experience that His yoke is easy and His burden
light ( Matt 11:30).
Leadership is all about serving people. Leaders are people who set the vision; who influence others with
their character; who point the way. Certainly, personality can open doors, but to keep them open, we need
character. Looking around, I see many leaders who are good managers and administrators, quite satisfied
doing maintenance work, but doing little for the growth of the ministry with a vision.
More than anything, Leadership is all about Him… About giving everything to Him...
What better way could we live out our lives in this world?

Built on the rock contd... Manoj Sunny, Jesus Youth Int’l Co-ordinator

or the complete lack of it, is something that Pope Benedict XVI strongly
warns us about when he speaks of the “dictatorship of relativism” in his
homily in St. Peter’s Square before the conclave in April 2005, “Having a
clear faith based on the creed of the Church is often labelled today as
fundamentalism. Relativism, which is letting oneself be tossed and swept
along by every wind of teaching, looks like the only attitude acceptable to
today’s standards... We are moving toward a dictatorship of relativism
which does not recognize anything as definitive and has as its highest
value one’s own ego and one’s own desires.”
Symptoms of the relativism epidemic
The disappearance of simple truths
There used to be an age when a bribe or a lie was wrong, and that was
that. Today, everything has become so complex that responses often
depend on the situation. The beauty and power of a pure ‘yes’ or ‘no’ is
lost as everything is analyzed to nonsensical limits. As Cardinal Ratzinger
says in his address to the Dean of the College of Cardinals: “How many
winds of doctrine have we known in recent decades, how many ideological
currents, how many ways of thinking. The small boat of the thought of
many Christians has often been tossed about by these waves - flung from
one extreme to another: from Marxism to liberalism, even to libertinism;
from collectivism to radical individualism; from atheism to a vague
religious mysticism; from agnosticism to syncretism and so forth.”
Lack of a clear viewpoint
A few decades ago, most people were clear about their vision in life. Even
communists, revolutionaries or atheists held passionate beliefs in life. Today
the most popular stance seems to be a studied avoidance of any stance. This
secularization has even led us Christians to dilute and gloss over our beliefs
so that no one is offended. A consciousness about one’s duty, justice and
commitments in society are completely out of place. “I don’t care” seems to
be the slogan of the age. Perhaps this stems from our deep seated
orientation towards success in life measured in terms of wealth and
power. And often, people find that taking a firm, public stance is likely
to displease someone and lessen the chances of success. In fact, the
only people who take strong positions are often fanatics or terrorists. As
the poet W.B Yeats says: “The best lack all convictions, while the worst /
Are full of passionate intensity.” Ultimately, this constant dilution of
one’s faith leads to the formation of a lukewarm personality that sways to
even the weakest ideologies and opinions. Thus in trying to make
everyone comfortable, we run the risk of losing our identity as Christians.
“Where God is excluded from the public forum”, says Pope Benedict XVI,
“the sense of offense against God - the true sense of sin - dissipates,
just as when the absolute value of moral norms is relativized the
categories of good or evil vanish, along with individual responsibility.”
A growing focus on the external aspects
Whether it be our social life or faith, there is also a growing focus on the
externals and a loss of the eternal perspective. In a worldly sense, the
externals are our wealth, power and status. And it is generally considered
all right to compromise any intangible value to helps us attain these
external elements. In our faith too, when core values like selfless love,
forgiveness and sacrifice are ignored, people take refuge in its externals,
revealing a shallow faith based only on certain observations and rituals. Even
in the renewal, when we drift away from living the faith everyday, we take
refuge in dwelling on the number of retreats we have attended, the faults of
other groups, and other petty arguments so we don’t have to confront the
discomfort of not having been faithful to our true call.
Wrongs masquerading as a common good
Today, abortion, divorce, war, arms trafficking, pornography and even
different forms of deviant sexuality that do not fit into God’s plan of love
are often portrayed as elements that further the common good. Even lies
and deception among children and adults in everyday life are applauded
as a sign of being smart and clever. So the ‘unsmart’ honest person is
COVER STORY
Built on the rock
left branded as the foolish non-performer. In
the recent attack on Lebanon by Israel, or in
the clashes that happen everyday in Iraq, the
deaths of hundreds of civilians were just
‘collateral damage’ in the cause for a greater
good. So too when many die in terrorist attacks,
the terrorists consider the deaths as part of a
good cause. We also have rock stars or
celebrities who dedicate the proceeds from the
sales of songs and albums with almost
pornographic content to humanitarian causes.
This mixing up of wrongs and seemingly good
causes appears to be a clear symptom of this
relativist generation.
Relativism- Attacking our foundations
Relationships
How do these symptoms affect our everyday lives?
To begin with, this lack of clarity strikes at the
root of every human relationship. Institutions like
the sacrament of marriage are being distorted and
challenged daily. The very purpose of the loving
union of a man and woman as a sign of God’s
presence in this world is forgotten, and it becomes
a temporary arrangement for pragmatic or selfish
reasons. And when the self-giving love of Christ
is set aside, then all kinds of deviations in search
of pleasure and self-gratification become normal.
The deeper, pure and enduring bonds between
parents and children, brothers and sisters are all
threatened by these selfish perceptions.
Parenting
For parents trying to bring up children in the light
of God, today’s world poses numerous challenges.
The very sense of right and wrong in a Christian
perspective was never so much at variance with
the viewpoint of the world. This leaves the parents
more confused about how to help children spot the
decieving lies of the world; and the children are
equally puzzled about their direction in life. This
obviously leads to the neglect of clear teachings
on morals and practice, which in turn results in
the formation of a confused generation to whom
indifference seems like a virtue.
Profession
In our careers, the pressure to succeed at any cost
takes priority over other concerns. This leads to
highly manipulative, power-driven and mechanical
relationships in the professional world. Thus bribes,
lies, and manipulation become part of the game -
and the more manipulative a person gets, the more
he is seen as a better performer. And with such a
morality entering into businesses, transactions
become exercises in deceiving the customers.
Society
In the social sphere, Christians today are faced
with accusations of intolerance and bigotry. A
firm ‘no’ to aspects that are not in line with a
scriptural viewpoint is seen as a fanatic response.
This is something that puts immense pressure on
the youth to conform and be part of the
mainstream society. Today, more and more issues
like abortion, same sex marriages, pornography
and euthanasia that conflict with core Catholic
beliefs are being legalized. Thus taking a simple
stance based on our beliefs might amount to civil
disobedience in a few years.
In the days to come, this could also snowball
into one of the main excuses to persecute
Christians who live their faith. On the 1st of
September, nine Catholic firefighters in
Scotland had their salaries cut and were
demoted because they refused to be involved
in distributing leaflets with the other firemen
at a ‘gay pride carnival’. Robert J. Smith - a
member of the Washington Metropolitan Area
Transit Authority - lost his job after arguing on
a local cable show that homosexuality
amounted to “sexual deviancy”. Strong stances,
as you can see, come with a price tag attached.
Spirituality
This relativist lifestyle driven by selfish
motives is even creeping into our spirituality.
The ‘prosperity gospels’ of the glitzy TV
evangelists are almost like advertisements that
say ‘Pray now and get free healing’. This
attitude to religion, in the long run results in a
shallow understanding of Jesus - relegating
him to the ranks of another slickly packaged
brand. The aspects of suffering, sacrifice, and
Christ’s option for the poor are ignored while
Christianity is presented as just another option
among many others, forgetting that Jesus very
clearly spoke of his kingdom as “not of this
world”. Even evangelization, when it does not
spring from a genuine love for the person with
whom the good news is shared, becomes a
conquest, or an achievement and a numbers
game. It becomes a competition among
evangelizers, and the true reason for
evangelization is lost somewhere in the
dynamics and the noise.
Building firm foundations
In this age of shifting sands, it is important
that we build on the solid rock of Jesus Christ.
He calls us to revisit the sources of our faith
handed down across generations.
1. The six pillars
As Jesus Youth, this calls for us to strongly cling
on to the six pillars of faith - personal prayer, the
word of God, sacramental life, fellowship,
evangelization, and service / option for the poor.
A Spirit filled renewal of these pillars becomes
imperative in these times.
2. The living and active word
Like the wise man in the bible, we need to build
our lives on a sound understanding of scripture.
Or else the ideological strains and clever
sounding arguments that that rage around the
world will blow our faith away in an instant.
3. The rock of Christ- The Church
A systematic journey into the sources of the
faith of the early Church, the lives of saints,
the teachings of the Church Fathers, and
the documents of the Church, should help
us get a clear understanding of our core
beliefs. The times also call for a completely
renewed sacramental life to anchor our faith
amidst the angry seas.
4. Christ centered communities for an
alternative culture
“Since a consumer culture exists that wants
to prevent us from living in accordance with
the Creator’s plan, we must have the courage
to create islands, oases, and then great
stretches of land of Catholic culture where
the Creator’s design is lived out.”
- Excerpt from an encounter of Pope Benedict XVI with the
youth of Rome.
The Church has always survived and grown
in small communities - and Jesus Youth too,
from its early days has been comfortable with
small groups like cells, prayer groups etc.
Covenant communities of families with
specific commitments and a clear vision
rooted in the teachings of the Church are the
need of the day. To take a stand that goes
against the grain of the mainstream culture,
the support and prayers of a loving,
understanding community is essential.
Besides, the next generation of children
need friendships that go beyond the shallow
friendships of the world, and positive role
models whom they can emulate.
5. Being signs of ‘joyful contradictions’
This phrase of Pope John Paul II, best sums
up the attitude that we can make our own.
Not a morose, strict, defender of the faith,
but a smiling, loving, sharer of the good
news; joyful and inviting, yet firm and clear;
in this world, but not of this world; free to
move where the Holy Spirit leads, while
staying rooted firmly in the love of Christ.
Ultimately, our faith, tested and refined in
the fire of relativism will appear more
radiant and stronger as we grow each day
into the image and likeness of Jesus. “ Then
we will no longer be infants, tossed back
and forth by the waves, and blown here and
there by every wind of teaching and by the
cunning and craftiness of men in their
deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the
truth in love, we will in all things grow up
into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
From him the whole body, joined and held
together by every supporting ligament,
grows and builds itself up in love, as each
part does its work.” - Ephesians 4:14
SHELTON PINHEIRO
A Jesus Youth for over a decade,
and the lead singer, song writer
and the present Co-ordinator,
of the Rexband, he currently
works as the creative head
of an advertising agency in India.
OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 3
 THE ‘DUQUESNE WEEKEND’, WHICH BECAME THE STARTING POINT OF THE CHARISMATIC MOVEMENT IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH, WAS ALSO THE
BEGINNING OF THE GROWTH OF MANY SPIRIT FILLED LEADERS, FAMILIES AND MOVEMENTS ACROSS THE WORLD. MOREOVER, THE CHARISMATIC
RENEWAL ALSO USHERED IN A DEEPER LOVE FOR THE CHURCH, THE SAINTS AND THE MISSION OF EVANGELIZATION. MS. PATTI GALLAGHER
MANSFIELD, ONE OF THE PARTICIPANTS OF THE HISTORIC ‘DUQUESNE WEEKEND’ HAD SHARED THE EXCITING AND TRANSFORMING MOMENTS OF THE
‘DUQUESNE WEEKEND’ IN THE LAST ISSUE. IN THE SECOND PART OF THIS CONTINUING SERIES ON THE CHARISMATIC RENEWAL, SHE SPEAKS TO DR.
EDWARD EDEZHATH ON THE BASIC ELEMENTS OF GROWTH IN THE RENEWAL AND ITS ENDURING IMPACT ON INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES AND THE
CHURCH ITSELF.

A CLOSE LOOK AT THE LIVES OF THE LEADERS
AND GROUPS OF THE CHARISMATIC RENEWAL
REVEAL A STEADY AND STRONG GROWTH IN
FAITH AND GIFTS. COULD YOU TELL US ABOUT
THE ELEMENTS THAT WERE CRUCIAL IN
HELPING YOU AND YOUR GROUP GROW FIRM IN
THE CHARISMATIC EXPERIENCE?
A: I think right from the start, it was clear that
in order to maintain this grace of Baptism in the
Spirit it was absolutely essential to have a
personal prayer life - a time alone with Jesus
everyday. The Scripture says, ‘When you pray, go
in your room, close the door and pray to your
Father in secret’. Surely that means a time of
prayer that is carved out of every day. After 40
years - I have been married, have had 4 children,
and have been involved in travelling, ministry,
writing and organising activities - I can bear
witness that it is absolutely essential everyday
to make time for personal prayer - personal prayer
that includes speaking to Jesus and listening to
Jesus - personal prayer that involves reading
and studying the Word of God.
Also, it is absolutely essential for us as
Catholics to have a deep sacramental life, which
means Mass and Communion. Certainly
attending Mass every Sunday would be just
basic, but also during the week as possible. The
Sacrament of Reconciliation is an essential part
GROWING
IN THE
SPIRIT
in the life of a person who really wants to grow in
holiness. Personally I would say, at least make a
good confession of our sins, weaknesses, failings,
and omissions once a month. This really is basic,
basic growth.
I think another essential aspect in spiritual
growth is the aspect of community, of being in
relationship with other brothers and sisters who
know Jesus, who are trying to follow Jesus and
walk in the Holy Spirit. I have found that at times
in my life, like say after childbirth, I had to miss
many weeks and months of prayer meetings and
it really made a difference in my Spirit filled walk.
There’s something about coming together - to
pray together, to fellowship, to put our lives
before one another, that really strengthens the
work of the Holy Sprit. Because one of the things
that is characteristic of a person or a group that
has had the Baptism of the Spirit is expectant
faith. That’s the conviction that we’re not just
praying with half-heartedness. We expect the
Lord to answer our prayers, to intervene, to
provide, to heal and to guide. When we are not in
that atmosphere of expectant faith, our own faith
level can decrease.
Another thing that is so important is that of
witness or service. I often say, “If a grace comes
to me, that grace must pass through me”. That is
the message of Our Lady - Mary. The Holy Spirit
overshadowed her and she gave her human consent.
She said ‘“Yes; be it done unto me” and Jesus was
able to take on flesh within her womb. Then the
mission of Mary was to bring Him forth and to give
Him away, to give Him to us, to surrender Him. And
so this Marian format is the model for every single
Christian life - for men as well as for women. When
the Holy Spirit overshadows me I have to give my
personal assent. I have to make a conscious ongoing
effort to surrender to Him, to be transformed by Him.
When you or I do that, Jesus himself can actually
take on flesh in our lives. Whether we are husbands,
wives, mothers, dads, singles, religious, priests,
professional people, or labourers, whatever the
circumstances in our life, Jesus wants to manifest
Himself through us. In this way, any inspiration, any
consolation, or any talent I have, be it the gift of
prophecy, gift of music or the gift of service may be
transformed and given for others.
St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians ( I Cor.
12:13-14), speaks of the charismatic gifts, the
many ways that the Holy Spirit works to build up
others; to make the love of Jesus real in the lives of
others. And if we are like Mary – channels of His
grace - then the Lord can keep pouring out
charismatic gifts upon us. St. John Vianney, one of
the great Charismatic figures and the patron saint of
all priests, used to say, “God puts great gifts in my
empty hands”. And one of his biographers said that
John Vianney never tired of receiving, and of giving.
Because he was never tired of giving he was
always open to receiving. In St. John Vianney we
again see the Marian model. The Lord wants to
give to us not so we hoard up treasures but so
that we become channels or vessels of His grace.
For his message on the new millennium, the Holy
Father Pope John Paul II exhorted us to “Put out into
the deep”. He said in a special way to us in the
Charismatic Renewal: Put out into the deep of prayer
and holiness so that you may put out into the deep
of evangelisation. Here too you see this inner
dimension of personal growth in holiness, prayer,
love for the Word, love for the Sacraments and love
for the Church. And such a deepening is always
followed by an outward overflowing so that we might
use our talents to spread the Kingdom of God.
THE CHARISMATIC RENEWAL IS OFTEN CITED AS
THE SOURCE OF SOME OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL
COMMUNITIES, GROUPS AND MOVEMENTS OF THE
CENTURY. COULD YOU TELL US ABOUT SOME OF
THESE COMMUNITIES?
A: I travel to Brazil yearly and I am very impressed
with the Charismatic Communities in this great
country. For instance, there is the Shalom
Catholic Community in Fortaleza or the Obra de
Maria Community in Recife or Cancao Nova in
Cachouera Paulista—all of these communities
were begun with young people who do a fantastic
work of evangelization. Within Cancao Nova, the
Holy Spirit led them to an outreach called “PHN”
which in Portuguese refers to the first letters in
the phrase “Por Hodie Nao” which means “For
Today No”. One of their leaders had the
inspiration to say to young people, if you can’t
break with drugs or sexual sin for the rest of your
lives, then at least “For Today No” and this
concept of taking one day at a time to choose
holiness instead of sin has created a movement
within a movement. Today Cancao Nova holds
retreats that draw over 40,000 young people for a
weekend. Their initial training session created a
powerful wave among young people. It was a
decision to fix their goal to live for God and part
with sin forever. These are just a few examples of
movements and ministries that have sprung up
around the world. There are marvelous
communities in Europe like the Beatitudes
Community and the Emmanuel Community in
France as well as many others. Most of these
ministries have a particular focus for their work.
Some work in groups among the youth, some in
institutions of higher learning, some focus on
healing and prayer, while some are focused on
rehabilitation of drug addicts and alcoholics. This
beautiful variety springs forth from the
tremendous grace of Baptism in the Spirit, the
characteristic that marks growth in the
Charismatic Renewal.
THE CHARISMATIC RENEWAL HAS BEEN VERY
DIFFERENT IN ITS EXPRESSIONS AND
MANIFESTATIONS. WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT?
HOW WOULD YOU SUM IT UP?
A: I would emphasize that the principal grace,
the treasure that has been entrusted to the
Correction: The sentence in ‘Reliving the Duquesne Experience’ (July 2006 Issue), “We all prayed
in tongues but we did not know it was the gift of tongues.” should have been “On the Duquesne
Weekend, one or two individuals prayed in tongues privately but there was no widespread yielding
to this gift by the group in the chapel. If we were instructed as to how to yield, I think that
most everyone in the chapel would have done so.” The error is regretted.
Charismatic Renewal, is this grace of being
baptized in the Holy Spirit. The Scriptures are
filled with references to being baptized in the
Holy Spirit and I have cited all of them in my
book ‘As By a New Pentecost’. Baptism in the
Spirit is not another sacrament. It can be
explained as a release of the graces of Baptism
and Confirmation that we received as children.
But it is also acceptable to say that in Baptism
in the Spirit, there is a new coming of the Holy
Spirit. It is not only a release, there is also a new
coming of the Spirit that helps us to use the
gifts of the Pentecost namely the charismatic
gifts such as praying in tongues, healing,
discernment of spirits, words of wisdom, words of
knowledge, the gift of interpreting tongues and
many others listed in the Scriptures. Living a life
in the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit is
the treasure that has been entrusted to the
Charismatic Renewal. However it is a grace that
is intended for everyone, not just for people who
call themselves charismatics, who attend a
charismatic renewal prayer meeting or
community. The Lord desires us to bear witness
to the baptism in the Spirit to the entire Church.
Take the beautiful passage in Luke 11 where
Jesus says, - “I tell you, ask and you will receive,
seek and you will find, knock and it will be
opened to you; for everyone who asks receives,
and he who seeks finds, and to the one who
knocks it will be opened…” He goes on to say,
“If you who are evil know how to give good gifts
to your children, how much more will the Father
in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask
Him”. And this Scripture, which has been there
for centuries, is one of the many promises we
have in the Bible which shows that the Lord is
longing to pour out His Holy Spirit in an ongoing
way. Another promise from the Old Testament is
in the Book of Isaiah where the Lord says,
“Behold I am going to do a new thing; don’t you
see it, even now it springs forth”.
At the turn of the last century, Pope Leo XIII
called the Church to be a permanent cenacle, and
he asked that we invoke the Holy Spirit with a
beautiful Pentecost Novena in the 9 days of prayer
between the Ascension and Pentecost. Later, Pope
John XXIII, convened the II Vatican Council by
praying, “O Divine Spirit, renew your wonders in
this our day as by a New Pentecost”. Pope Paul VI
in many instances said that the Church’s greatest
need was for the Holy Spirit - and that the Church
needed a perennial Pentecost, an ongoing
Pentecost, that the Church needed fire in her eyes,
prophecy on her lips.
What we are experiencing over these last 40 years
of Charismatic Renewal is really the fulfillment of
the prayer of the Popes, the prayer of the whole
Church every Pentecost. When we pray the
Sequence Hymn of Pentecost in the liturgy,
invoking the Holy Spirit, every time we sing ‘Come
Holy Ghost, Creator blest’, we are joining the
Church in an ongoing process of saying “We need
you Holy Spirit. Come; come again”. In fact in
every Mass when the priest extends his hands
over the gifts to consecrate the bread and wine
into the Body and Blood of Jesus, he is invoking
the Holy Spirit. So in a certain sense the grace of
the Charismatic Renewal is very new and in
another sense it’s been with us all along.
I think the difference is that over the history of our
Church, there has always been an outpouring of
the Spirit where there have been great saints who
have led new movements like Francis and Dominic,
Teresa and so on. But in this day, in this time
since the II Vatican Council, God is determined to
pour out His Holy Spirit on all flesh. He doesn’t
want just a few chosen souls raised to the heights
of sanctity but as in the prophecy of Joel, “Even on
my menservants and maidservants in those days I
will pour out a portion of my spirit. My sons and
daughters will prophesy; old men shall dream
dreams and young men shall see visions.”
This prophecy is truly being fulfilled. I don’t
travel so extensively as some people do, but I
travel extensively enough to have seen that in
every culture, across all boundaries, God is
pouring out His Holy Spirit. From people in the
highest places of the Church to the most simple,
uneducated folks, God is giving this portion of
His Spirit. So it’s a very exciting time in which to
live. I was in Brazil a few months ago, and they
have a goal that they want to see realized in this
jubilee year – the 40th anniversary. They want to
see another 20 million Catholics baptized in the
Holy Spirit. What a vision! If only we in the United
States and you in India and all countries around
the world could have that kind of a vision. We are
often aware of our limitations and our faith is so
small, but God is not limited. He is just waiting
for us to pray with expectant faith for a New
Pentecost for all mankind. Come Holy Spirit and
renew the face of the earth!
(To be continued.)
PATTI GALLAGHER MANSFIELD
From the early days of the Renewal she has served as a
leader through teaching, writing and pastoral ministry.
Patti is married to Al Mansfield, Co-ordinator of the
Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans, Louisiana,
and has four children.
OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 5
To be a disciple
and make disciples
Jesus Youth International Full time Volunteers’ Training
28TH JUNE - 20TH AUGUST 2006, COLOMBO, SRI LANKA & KERALA, INDIA

The Jesus Youth Full time Volunteers’ project, which has been going on for the past 15 years
in India, has seen more than 1000 young graduates undergo an intensive 40 days’ training THIS PIONEERING
and take up a yearlong commitment to evangelize youth in the mission areas that they are
assigned. This year too, three trainings were held in India - two in English and one in Hindi
INTERNATIONAL FULL
- catering to almost 50 young men and women. In a pioneering attempt to recreate the TIME VOLUNTEERS’
success of this project on an international level, the first ever Jesus Youth International Full
time Volunteers’ Training was held from 28th June - 20th August 2006. There were 24 TRAINING MARKED
participants from 9 different countries. The comprehensive two-phase training programme
included a 40 days’ foundation course in Colombo, Sri Lanka and a 12 days’ intensive
THE REALIZATION OF
training in Kerala, India. The programme which focused on prayer, Scriptural studies, A LONG CHERISHED
theology, interpersonal skills, people management, communication, talent development and
team building, catered to the spiritual, intellectual, physical and psychological development DREAM AND THE
of the participants. A retreat during the beginning stages of the training helped the
participants build a solid spiritual foundation for the rest of the days. A competent training
BEGINNING OF A NEW
team along with renowned trainers and resource persons monitored the project. The resource ERA IN THE HISTORY
team included Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Fr. Dheeraj Sabu, Fr. James Anamparambil, Mr. Fritz
Mascarenhas, Dr. Edward Edezhath, Prof. Joby Cyriac, Mr. Leo Thaddeus, Mr. Raiju Varghese OF THE JESUS YOUTH
and Mr. Manoj Sunny. The commitment ceremony for the 24 young missionaries was held in MOVEMENT.
Colombo on 5th August 2006. One of the key ingredients for the success of the
training was the full hearted and dedicated support of the local team from Sri Lanka.
Five of the participants are taking full time commitment for one year, while most of
>> Nurturing young hearts...
the others will be taking part time commitment, i.e. working / studying 4 days a
week and keeping aside the remaining 3 or 4 days for activities towards building “The days in Colombo were days of
the Kingdom of God. This pioneering International Full time Volunteers’ Training blessing, enlightenment and learning –
marked the realization of a long cherished dream and the beginning of a new era in both for the participants and for the
the history of the Jesus Youth movement. formators. I took up the invitation to be
part of the training team with mixed
feelings. After meeting the 24
participants, it became clear to me that
this was a genuine group in search of
the Kingdom and its values. Each participant was unique,
with a number of talents and gifts. And they came out well
as a cohesive group; their different colours and textures
added beauty to the group. After widening their horizon
they have gone back to their nations with a great desire to
proclaim His kingdom. May God bless them and keep them
close to His heart.”
Fr. Abraham Pallivathukal SJ, Pastor, Training Team
“I took the decision to be part of the
training team after much prayer, since
going to Colombo meant being away
from my family and other commitments
for almost two months. I think what
kept me going for the 53 days, was the
fact that these 24 youngsters from
different parts of the world came for the
training for just one reason - the love of Jesus. The team
that was with me during the training was the best - each
one of them was very resourceful, with expertise in their
respective fields, and from different generations of the
Jesus Youth leadership. One of my biggest fears was how we
would manage these youngsters from such diverse cultures.
However, I realized that even though often a word or action
“They flew in from Australia, could mean different things and be interpreted differently
Germany, UK, Thailand, South by people from different cultures, the fact that all of them
Korea, UAE, USA and India to had Jesus as their sole purpose and reason, enabled
attend the international Jesus everyone to look beyond cultural differences and focus on
Youth training in Sri Lanka. They being disciples and learning to make disciples.”
were an amazing bunch of eager, C. C. Joseph, Co-ordinator, Training Team
vibrant, on-fire young adults,
impatient to build the Kingdom
“It was a real joy to be with this group of
of God. I was astonished at their
youngsters, growing with them as one
sincere and enthusiastic
family in a prayerful and Spirit-filled
response to the call of Jesus in
atmosphere. ‘Listening to understand’
their lives, to yield their talents
rather than ‘listening to respond’ was
and gifts to Him for His service.
The dedicated Jesus Youth team important, as we related to each other in
contributed significantly to the this multi-cultural and multi-linguistic
success of the programme.” group. Though I had to leave my job to
Fritz Mascarenhas, Director, be part of the training team, I feel I have only gained richly
ICPE India - Resource Person in experience and knowledge – especially in identifying
God’s mission for me. Being with such a diverse group has
“‘Experiencing Jesus sparked in me the desire to pray and work for the
without borders’… that evangelisation of the whole world.”
was how the first
International Full time
Navin Bruce Thomas, Member, Training Team
Volunteers’ Training
struck me. It was the love “Despite feeling so unworthy to be part
of Jesus joining hearts to of the team, I realized that this was a
forge powerful links privilege for me, and it was the time to
crisscrossing countries, accept what the Lord has given me -
customs, lifestyles and family backgrounds for the time to take it, use it and share
greater glory of God. I could witness the deepening it. Being amongst international
of each full timer in the values of the Kingdom of participants was an amazing experience
God and as a result, taking responsibility as a that once again encouraged me to reach
Christian who celebrates his/her relationship with out to all nations. Their zeal, especially for evangelization,
Jesus. Let this global team be the herald of many has truly inspired me to go forth. During these times of
more to come… teaming up for the Lord with learning and unlearning, where I had to swim through the
deeper ends, my Lord showed me time and time again, that
convictions articulated in deeds!”
He is and will always be with me.”
Joby Cyriac, Lecturer, Marian College, Kerala
Mayrose Pius, Member, Training Team
- Resource Person

OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 7

>> Cherished moments... “The Full time Volunteers’ Training was a beautiful experience
for me. This training changed my relationship with the Lord
totally. It all started with the silent retreat. Throughout this
retreat I was not only praying to Him, I could really feel His
“I treasured our daily presence everywhere - inside me, outside me and in other
personal times with people. It was and it still is so wonderful to listen to Him.”
God and our constant Vimal Vattappillil, Germany
visitations with the
Lord Jesus through the
Eucharistic Adoration
and Mass. I also felt the
presence of God very much
with us at each outreach - in the faces of
the elderly, the orphaned, in those who
had never heard of God’s unconditional
love for them. I have come to realize the
importance and benefit of spending time
daily with Jesus even after our training.”
Annie Chandy, USA

“During the ‘Discipleship’ module, I realized that there was a possibility that
my “good plans and intentions” were not what God had in mind for my life.
I spent long hours in the chapel surrendering my family, possessions and
my future plans to the Lord. This difficult process was the beginning of my
walk in the path set by Him; jumping into the unknown knowing that there
is a ray of hope guiding me. And that for me is the thrill of being a true
disciple walking in accordance with God’s will.”
Rijo John, UAE

“The daily Mass helped me build my relationship with God. I learnt a lot
about Jesus, the Bible, the Church, etc., from the sessions, realized the
immense responsibilities I had towards the kingdom of God, and found the
beauty of fellowship. I had a lot of problems adjusting because of my
language, culture, the tight schedule, etc., but my friends from across the
world helped me overcome them just like my own family. Now I think we are
all for one and one for all. And more importantly we are one in Jesus! “
Jang Se Ock, South Korea

“I felt the real presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. And the more
I experienced the ‘reality’ of the Eucharistic Lord, the more enriched and
powerful my personal prayer and daily reflections became. The group
activities have impressed on me the need to pray and work together.
I now feel the importance of being in a group like Jesus Youth. It gives
much meaning to my life.” Bro. S. Wilbert IVD, Sri Lanka

“It was the time spent in

Adoration of the Blessed
Sacrament that kept me
going throughout the
training. For the first time l
knew I had to do everything
I could to please my God and
that His will is always more important
than anything else. The outreach was a
humbling experience; the time we spent
with the disabled, the old and the
orphans finally made me see Christ in
people.”
Tenny Anthony, UK “The session on ‘Paradigm “I could feel the presence
Shift’ helped me to really of the Holy Spirit as a
“These 53 days gave me a dig down and find my person during the 53
lot of beautiful insights deep-rooted paradigms days – speaking to me,
into my life. I got a lot of which I realized, were correcting me,
support and leading me to sin. strengthening me. Another
encouragement from the Confession was one of my powerful experience was the
whole team, to discover my nightmares. I offered this to the Lord and He Word of God coming alive, bringing about a
talents and to grow in the blessed me with the grace to make a genuine deep passion to study and meditate upon the
areas where I was weak. I truly confession after many years. I came to the Bible. There is now a desire in my heart to
experienced love, joy and freedom, and training with the hope of a transformation. It pray, and a deep desire for evangelization. It
realised that the one and only task of was painful, but with Jesus by my side, I was has also helped me to redefine my life with
the Church is evangelization.” transformed as I surrendered myself to Him.” only Jesus in the centre.”
Rajan Joseph, India Milan Chacko, Australia Dony Peter, Thailand
ISSUE NO. 2
JESUSYOUTH
OF INDIA
Nights of
Grace
Ancient texts portray that in the service of an
all-night vigil, the Church turns the thoughts
of the faithful toward the spiritual light of
Christ. The sentiment probably stems from the
verse, “Arise, cry out in the night, in the
beginning of the watches! Pour out your heart
like water before the presence of the Lord”
(Lamentations 2: 19). And so it has been with
the young vibrant Jesus Youth across the
states of India, who readily forego a night’s
sleep and spend a whole night worshipping
the Lord and receive of His fullness.
1. Night Vigil, Bangalore
For the last five years, the Saturday Night Vigil
has been a great source of grace and blessing
A MISSIONARY MOVEMENT AT THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH
for the Jesus Youth family in Bangalore. The
vigil starts every Saturday at the Renewal
Retreat Centre at 9.30 p.m. and ends at 5.30
a.m. on Sunday. Mr. Alex Njavally, the
animator of JY Bangalore and the initiator of
the Saturday Night Vigil says that this night
vigil was prompted and inspired by the Holy
Spirit so that the youth in Bangalore may
experience the love and compassion of Jesus.
Sunsun Jose, a Jesus Youth leader in Bangalore
says, “I had heard of the vigil before I came to
Bangalore two years ago and I made sure that I
was there for it on my first Saturday in the
city. That night the Lord touched me in a big
way and I have been hooked to it ever since.”
The vigil serves as the ideal forum to revive
souls. Lively sessions of praise and worship,
breaking of the Word of God and the
Sacrament of Reconciliation are regular
features. The Holy Eucharist is celebrated
around midnight. The healing prayer is a time
of great physical and inner healing. Thousands
have passed through the vigil over the years
and have countless stories of blessings,
miracles and healings to narrate.
2. Night Vigil, Delhi
It is the eleventh year since the Jesus Youth
night vigil began in Delhi. Its longevity testifies
to the abundant blessings the Jesus Youth in
Delhi have received through the years. The first
night vigil was organised in June-July 1995.
Initially about 45 youth, mainly the Jesus Youth
leaders attended the night vigils. Discussions
about the ministry, its vision, and future plans,
were part of the group sharing sessions during
the night vigil. Now the vigils have grown to a
different level with about 200 participants. The
night vigil is usually held in the Community Hall,
adjacent to the Archbishop’s House, Delhi. During
its teething stages, the central team coordinated
the night vigils, but now a dedicated team takes
care of it. Many testify to the infilling they
experience during the night vigils at Delhi.
3. Night Vigil, Chennai
The night vigil community in Chennai will be
celebrating their first anniversary soon. It has
been a year of total guidance and providence from
the Lord. Night Vigils take place every second
Saturday of the month at the Cathedral Basilica of
St. Thomas at Santhome from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
and conclude with the celebration of the Holy
Mass. Jesus Youth, members of different parishes
and the general public participates regularly.
4. Night Vigil, South Gujarat
The inspiration for the night vigils in South
Gujarat was derived during the constitution of
South Gujarat Jesus Youth Service Team about an
year back. More than three hundred people
participated in the first night vigil at Dharampur
on the 10th of September 2005. This led to
organization of regular night vigils in other parts
of South Gujarat. Accordingly the second night
vigil at Samghan (Bhapkel village) witnessed a
large gathering of about 1,700 people. Bhapkel
village was filled with buses, jeeps and
Dear warriors
of the Lord,
Jesus Youth has
always been a
prophetic and
creative presence
among the youth
of India. I have
always been motivated and renewed in my
commitment by the special charism of
Jesus Youth in catering not only to the
sophisticated urban youth, but also to the
rural and tribal youth in the villages of
India. My sincere wish for Jesus Youth
Generation Next is – be not only the
warriors but also the custodians of the
renewed faith that we have already
enkindled in the hearts of many.
Let His message be a lamp to your feet
and a light for your path.
Rev. Fr. Cherian Nereveettil
Pastor, Jesus Youth National Team, India.
trucks from different mission stations of South
Gujarat. The vigil at Pimpari on the 21st of Jan
2006 saw around 1200 people, including
school children, revering the Lord through the
night. Over 750 young people from distant
mission stations attended the night vigil at
Unai on the 1st of July 2006.
These nights spent in worship, praise and
prayer, contain within them, the power to bring
about a transformation in the land - starting
with the individual, permeating into the family
and to the community at large. Prayerful hours
spent in front of the Eucharistic Lord in worship
and supplication is precisely what our society
and communities stand in need of. Kudos to
those who carry forward this arduous and yet
hallowed tradition of praying through the
night. May their tribe increase!
OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 8a
Missionary
Families
“It has been nearly eight years since we started
being involved in the Jesus Youth as a family. We
have worked with the Kerala campus and
professional teams and also at the national level
to some extent. Our role has mainly been
spending time with the youth, listening to them
and sharing with them the richness of the Jesus
Youth lifestyle. In 2001-2002, we took up the
initiative to visit the homes of JY campus leaders
spread across the different zones of Kerala. This
was a challenging time, as we had to set apart our
resources and open up our homes and hearts for
the young people. Our family circumstances and
health problems prevent our taking up very
challenging roles in the Jesus Youth, we try to do
our best and the Lord has never failed us in
whatever we do.”
JOHN WILFRED & ANNIE JOHN
John Wilfred is a chemical engineer and works as a
Consultant with KITCO in Kerala. He stays in
Cochin with his wife Annie and eight year old son
Isaac.
“We have been involved in Jesus Youth for the last
10 years. We have conducted numerous retreats
and training programmes for the campus ministry,
music ministry and in parishes. As we are a family
with 5 children, it has been a tough task. Very
often we have had to face abuses and threats; we
have even lost jobs because of our activities.
However, we believe that nothing we do to build
the kingdom of God will go in vain. Today our
home as well as all our resources is open wide for
the Jesus Youth. We believe youth need families
like us to give them moral support and guidance
to face the challenges of the world. This is the call
of every JY family for the new millennium, so that
the Church may have a bright future.”
ELVIS KOTTOORAN & PRIYA ELVIS
Elvis is a property developer by profession, settled
in Cochin with his wife Priya and five children –
Elriya, Joanna, Chris, Susanna and Rosinna.
National News
KARNATAKA
n A one-day programme was conducted
th
at St. Joseph’s Church, Manipal on 27
August 2006. Nearly 250 students from the
different colleges of Manipal and Udupi
attended this programme. The main resource
persons included Fr. Jose Poovathinkal and
Mr. Saji, who dealt with various topics in
detail. The day ended with a time of
Adoration and Mass celebrated by Fr. Joseph
Mampallikunnel, Vicar General and Fr. Joshi.
n Rexband conducted a retreat on 9th and
10th September for about 1300 Christian
students of Christ College, Bangalore. The
retreat concluded with a concert by
Rexband. Several priests, religious, families,
and others, particularly those who had
extended their support for the JY National
Conference, were also invited for the concert.
n A Youth Retreat led by Br. Fritz (ICPE)
was conducted at the Renewal Retreat
Centre with over 175 participants from 24th
to 27th August 2006. The retreat was the
second in a series of three youth retreats
planned by JY Bangalore. The retreat was a
powerful experience for all the participants.
The mobilisation has begun for the third
retreat to be held in November.
n Under the initiative of the Parish
Ministry in Bangalore, a prayer meeting in
Kannada is being held every third Sunday of
the month at Nirmal Jyothi. Over 150
students and working women participate in
this prayer meeting.
TAMIL NADU
n ‘Waking Time’ - a gathering of 120
freshers from 10 different colleges took place
at the Nirmala College, Coimbatore from 15th
to 17th of September 2006. The input
sessions covered topics like God’s love, sin
and repentance, inner healing, JY life style,
ministries and prayer groups. Live music
and audio-visual presentations were used to
effectively convey the talks and to ensure
the involvement of participants. There was
round-the-clock intercession and prayer
throughout the programme.
n A one-day programme was conducted at
St. Joseph’s School, Trichy on 12th August
2006. Around 250 students participated in
this programme. Fr. Baiju Parackal O.S.S.T
from Bangalore was the main resource person.
n A three day programme ‘Rejoice ’06’, was
conducted at Karaikal from 1 st to 3rd September
2006. Around 300 teenagers participated in this
first Tamil programme. Bro. Antony from ICPE was
the main speaker for the programme, who spoke
on the power of the Holy Spirit.
n Tamil Nadu Leaders’ Training Programme
was conducted on 26 th and 27th of August 2006
at SCJM Convent, Trichy. 35 leaders
participated in this training. Towards the end of
the programme, a new Tamil Nadu Regional Team
was formed with Paulson Jose as the Co-
ordinator.
ANDHRA PRADESH
n A family gathering for members of the
different JY ministries was organised by JY
Hyderabad on 16 th July 2006. The programme
was titled “Get Connected” – a subtle reminder
to everyone to always be connected with God
and with one another.
n JY Hyderabad conducted a one-day outreach
programme ‘Genesis’ at Christu Jyoti Institute of
Technology & Sciences, Warangal. This was the
first campus ministry gathering in Warangal.
n ‘YOV’ an official one-day programme for the
Vijayawada Diocese was organized by Fr. Don
Bosco (Youth Director, Vijayawada Diocese) as an
endeavour to bring together all the youth of
Vijayawada and to utilize and give direction to
their potential. Most Rev. Prakash Mallavarapu,
Bishop of Vijayawada also graced the occasion
and exhorted the youth to be living witnesses to
others and encouraged them to join the Jesus
Youth ministry.
n Jesus Youth in Hyderabad were invited to
spend an afternoon with the novitiates and
brothers of the St. Don Bosco (SDB)
congregation at their residence in Manoharabad
on 12th August 2006. The meeting commenced
in true JY style with action songs, praise and
worship and a small input session. Following
this, the group spent some time in Adoration of
the Blessed Sacrament.
GUJARAT
n A Nurses’ Meet was held at Mother Teresa
Convent, Ahmedabad on 24th September 2006
with around 25 participants. This was the first
nurses’ gathering to be held in Gujarat. The
participants decided to conduct regular prayer
meetings for nurses. Regular gatherings and
programmes for nurses were also planned.
contd. on page 8d
 FULL-TIME
VOLUNTEERS’
TRAINING
The Jesus Youth Full time Volunteers’ training in Hindi was held from
7th July to 15th August 2006 with 15 participants (7 women and 8
men including 3 priests) belonging mostly to the tribal and adivasi
belt, from eight different states of North India. The training held at
the Don Bosco Provincial House, New Delhi was conducted by the JY
Full time Volunteers’ Training Team, under the guidance of Rev. Fr.
Cherian Nereveetil and Rev. Sr. Vigi Rose, and helped by JY Delhi and
the Santavana Community. The financial assistance provided by the
Salesian Fathers was a big support for this project. During the 40
days’ intensive training, the participants were given various
sessions and teachings on discipleship, evangelization, Church,
communication skills, youth animation, etc. These young
missionaries were commissioned in a grace-filled Commitment
Ceremony presided by Most Rev. Abraham Viruthakulungara
[Archbishop of Nagpur] accompanied by 7 other priests on 15th

>>
August 2006. They have been placed in different parts on North
India for an year, where they will interact with the local people and
try and form discipleship and prayer groups. One full time volunteer
has also been place in the Andamans.
Another JY full time Volunteers’ training in English was conducted at
Emmaus, Ernakulam, Kerala, from 21st July - 27th August 2006 for a small
“I believe that this training was a beautiful and unique call
of the Lord to touch Him, taste Him, and experience Him.
These days in my life taught me how to love the Lord and
witness Him.”
BOBBIN VINAYAN, Malapuram, Kerala • Participant, Kerala

>>
group of 7 participants (3 men and 4 women) who were unable to
attend the International Full time Volunteers’ Training in Sri Lanka
because of their examinations. All the participants (except
three) have completed their professional courses in engineering. In
today’s world where everyone is trying their best to stay ahead in the rat
race, these young participants dared to set aside a whole year to work for
the Lord. During their commitment period, these full time volunteers will
be working in the southern and north-eastern parts of India.
“The training, sessions, and the fellowship and love I received
from the training team and my batch mates, have brought out
the best in me. Now I feel closer to God. I am trying to give my
best to the Lord during this formation year.”
REENA KUJUR, Ranchi, Chattisgarh
• Participant, New Delhi
“After the 40 days’ training, these young missionaries are
confident and they venture into unknown places without even

>>
knowing the language properly. They take risks for the Kingdom

>>
“We are able to effectively reach out to the local youth of
north India mainly through the full time volunteers. Seeing
their committed life, the local youth are very inspired and
grow into good leaders.”
SHINY ALEXY PALLAN • Resource person, Santvana Community
of the Lord. After one year wherever they are, they become the
presence of the Church. I think that is why many bishops and
priests ask for their service.”
SR. VIGI ROSE
• Animator, JY Full time Volunteers’ Training Team

National Intercession Day ‘Chalo Nagaland’ - Teens in action

This year JY India celebrated 15th August – the Independence In the trail of ‘Chalo Kashmir’, Teens’ ministry is preparing for yet another
Day of India and the feast of the Assumption - as their National mission- ‘Chalo Nagaland’. This out reach, which will include teenage
Intercession Day. In many places, including Delhi and missionaries from the north and south of India, is being planned for the
Bangalore where there are perpetual intercession centres, the summer of 2007. The mission also hopes to be the starting point for Teens’
youth spent the day in Adoration and prayer. The Nurses 2007- a North Eastern Teen’s Gathering.
Ministry organized the ‘Jeevajyothi Candle Prayer’ in many
schools, hospitals and hostels in different states across the
country. In the northern and southern states of India, the Leaders on the Move!
Teens’ Ministry introduced an innovative intercession activity A team of JY National
by encouraging teenagers to plant saplings in their school leaders has been traveling
compounds and other spaces with a prayer and dream in their across different states in
hearts for JY India to grow and flourish in the country. India over the past few
months to meet and
Nurses to Mission interact with the JY
leaders in the various
The National Nurses’ Ministry has taken a bold initiative to places. This team includes
encourage nurses who have finished their studies to take up Mr. Raiju Varghese
jobs in hospitals in mission areas. The main objective of this (National Co-ordinator, JY
project is evangelisation by initiation of Jesus Youth activities India), Mr. Baby Chacko
in those areas. As nurses can effectively reach out to common (Jesus Youth Animator)
people, the scope of this project is vast. The National Nurses and Mr. Rajan Joseph (JY
team envisions much fruit through this initiative. Full time Volunteer).

OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 8c

 The Flourishing
METROS Jesus Youth in
Delhi
It began when a few active Jesus
Youth from Kerala migrated to
Delhi in search of a better South Gujarat
BECOMING HUBS livelihood. Numbers increased
and simultaneously regular
In the year 2002, the power of the Holy Spirit

OF EVANGELISATION night vigils and prayer

groups were also initiated. A
moved across the Southern part of Gujarat and
led to the awakening of a new faith. The youth
from Gujarat who attended the ‘Cultural
Bangalore significant milestone in the
Exchange’ programmes in the past years returned
history of JY Delhi was the
From humble beginnings and initiatives of migrant youth, with dreams and a vision for God’s kingdom, and
starting of Perpetual Adoration
primarily from Kerala, Jesus Youth in Bangalore has grown to a they received much encouragement from the
of the Blessed Sacrament at
vibrant community that has one common dream – to transform religious of the various parishes. Several youth
the Jesus Youth house. Ever
Bangalore into the spiritual powerhouse of India. Being the IT from Gujarat attended the ‘JY National Conference
since, this has been a source of
Capital of India, great impetus is being laid on projects to 2005’ with the able support of Fr. Thomas and Fr.
inspiration and strength for the
reach out to IT companies and BPO/Call Centers. Some of the Vincent. A sizeable number of priests and nuns
Jesus Youth in Delhi. The JY
activities and plans include: from Gujarat also attended ‘Communion 2006’ in
movement continues to reach
Kerala.
• 3 youth retreats each year with extensive mobilization out to the youth of the
among students, working professionals, migrant youth, etc. metropolis by exploring new
• Over 50 prayer meetings every week held in colleges, avenues and searching for
offices, parishes, retreat centres, hostels, etc. innovative ways to help them
• Night Vigil every Saturday at the Renewal Retreat Centre. encounter Jesus in their lives.
• Intercession everyday at Premalaya from 6 p.m. to 10p.m. Over the years, the Capital has
• Forming and providing resource persons to different become a nurturing ground for
parts of India for evangelization. missionaries to grow and become
• A fully functional JY Office. equipped for their mission.

National News contd.

RAJASTHAN
n A one-day retreat was organised by JY
Rajasthan on 3rd September 2006 at BITS, Pilani
- one of most prestigious educational
institutions of the country. 40 participants
attended the retreat. The programme began with
praise and worship, followed by an interactive
session led by Fr. Angelos. The post-lunch
sessions included a group workshop, a talk on
2006 at the Navinta Retreat Centre, Delhi
with 8 participants. The participants
were taught the importance of following the
constants and were urged to build their lives
on the six pillars of Jesus Youth spirituality.
n A Jesus Youth Family Gathering was held
on 20th August 2006 at Krist Raja School,
Delhi. There were around forty participants.
After the praise and worship session the
participants were shown a video clipping of
the ‘Eucharistic Miracle at Lanciano, Italy’
emphasizing the importance of the Eucharist
and the wonders it can do in one’s life.
The Jesus Youth of Gujarat have blossomed and
become self sufficient over the years. Presently
there are night vigils across parishes in Unai,
Pimpari, Dharampur and Samghan (Bhapkel
Village) once every month, with over 3500
people coming together to worship the Lord !
Local resources are also being developed to
conduct programmes. Support from and
fellowship with religious of various parishes is
an added encouragement. There is also a
strong zonal team led by Mr. Umaadh and
supported by Fr. Thomas, their pastor. Recently
a one-day training programme, led by Mr. Raiju
Varghese, Mr. Baby Chacko and Mr. Rajan
Joseph was held in the region.

repentance and forgiveness and time for
confessions. The programme concluded with
Mass.
DELHI
n A recollection for the co-ordinators and the
core team members of the various ministries of
JY Delhi was held at Navintha Retreat Centre
from 4th to 6th September 2006. The resource
team included Fr. Santosh (Jeevan Jyoti
Ashram, Burari), Ms. Kochu Rani (Kerala), Mr.
Santosh (Santvana Community) and Mr.
Wilson, who gave talks on topics ranging from
the importance of personal prayer, eldering,
fellowship, to various leadership values.
n A 10-day formation programme in
Malayalam was held from 4th to 13th August
JAMMU & KASHMIR
n A Leadership Training Programme was
conducted at the Bishop’s House in Jammu
for 60 leaders of Jammu & Kashmir on 9th and
10th of September 2006. The resource team
included Mr. Raiju Varghese, Mr. Baby Chacko
and Mr. Rajan Joseph. At the end of this two-
day training, a Regional Service Team for
Jesus Youth in Jammu & Kashmir was formed,
with Babu Bunty and Sunny Kokhar as the
Co-ordinator and Asst. Co-ordinator. Rev. Fr.
Robin Francis Cerejo is the Pastor, while Rev.
Sr. Falicita has been selected as the Animator
of the team.
With the guidance of the Jesuit fathers and a
team of enthusiastic youth, with the love for
Jesus burning in their hearts, we look forward
to the flourishing of faith and love in Gujarat.
The time has come to reap the harvest!!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Cultural Exchange
Programme 2006
8th Dec 2006 - 3rd Jan 2007, Kerala.
For further details contact,
india@jesusyouth.org, Ph : 0484 2338685
XII National Catholic
Charismatic Convention
27th - 30th December 2006
Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor, Kerala.
Theme : “Build the Body of Christ”
National Leaders’ Gathering
26th - 28th January 2007, Nagpur

For more details please contact:

Jesus Youth India Office, 6F Thadikaran Centre, Palarivattom P.O, Cochin - 682 025, Kerala, India. Email: india@jesusyouth.org, Phone: +91 - 484 - 2338685, Fax: +91- 484 - 2346084
FROM
A portal, according to one definition, is a super site that serves as a starting point
to other sites and activities. Thus, to begin with, the new Jesus Youth portal is a
gateway to 18 different Jesus Youth sub sites of each country. The new portal is

PIONEERING
also a starting point for many other journeys. For Jesus Youth, the portal opens up
the world of Joynet, (one of the world’s largest online Catholic communities), offers
a musical trip to the Rexband site, an informative peek into the Youth Vibes

SITE TO
podcast page, and a stroll across the two new pages (Jesus Youth Newsroom and
Eventscan) to check out the latest in Jesus Youth circles.
For the newcomer, the portal has

PATH a place to meet the person of

Jesus and discover the basic
Gospel message. For those

BREAKING seeking a personal experience,

the Encounters link offers just
that. For the ones trying to figure

PORTAL out the Catholic Church, there’s

the new Catholic domain. For
young persons still discerning
their vocation, Lifechoice offers
Ten years ago, when the official website of the critical guidance while Prayerzone
Jesus Youth movement was launched, it was gives visitors access to live prayer
one of the first Catholic youth sites to offer support. The JY emart, when
online networking options for likeminded activated, will offer visitors the
Catholic youth. Today, the site draws over opportunity to shop for
8000 visitors every month and offers diverse inspirational Catholic resources.
avenues for youth to network.
Finally, the perfect compliment
Through the years, as the movement spread to that you can offer the talented
over 18 countries, the scope and functions of the Jesus Youth team (Bijoy Thomas
website too began to expand. The need for a more interactive from USA, Jacob Jose, Shobin
and dynamic presence that binds the global Jesus Youth Mathew and Manoj Jons from India, and
network became more pressing. At this point, when the team Jimesh Thomas from Germany) that worked
came together, it became clear that the time was ripe for the 24x7 and created this portal is to log on
transition of the Jesus Youth website into a portal. And so to www.jesusyouth.org, check it out
on 8th September 2006, the Jesus Youth portal with a more for yourself, and send in your
clean, contemporary and fresh look was born. comments and suggestions.

makes use of repetitive songs and bhajans,

readings from the Scripture, short prayers of

Taizé
intercession and a time of silence. Rev. Fr.
Sangeet from Cochin, who was deeply
impressed by the prayer services in Kolkata
said, “The prayer was taking place without any

Kolkata
effort. It was good to see so many youth take
part in the prayer, even though no one was
forcing them to. Praying just seemed the most
natural thing to do.”

Pilgrimage of Trust
Brother Alois, Prior, Taizé Community

The colourful city of Kolkata played host to 6000 The ‘Pilgrimage of Trust’ begun by
young adults from different states of India and 37 Brother Roger, is intended to support
countries of Asia, Europe and America, as they young people in their search for God
gathered together at the Don Bosco School, Park and their desire to commit themselves
Circus for the Taizé Pilgrimage of Trust from 5th to 9th in the Church and in society. These
October 2006. A Jesus Youth delegation from meetings are held regularly in different
different parts of India was also blessed to be part countries across the globe. Two similar
of this Pilgrimage of Trust. The meeting based on events, with Brother Roger present,
the theme – ‘On the road of trust, towards a future were held in Chennai in 1985 and
of peace’, was led by the Taizé Community, a 1988. Ms. Nimmy Varkey from
monastic community of brothers of different Bangalore aptly put into words what
Christian denominations founded by the late each participant experienced
Brother Roger in 1940 in France. The new prior of throughout the ‘Pilgrimage of Trust’ -
Taizé, Brother Alois, along with several brothers of “What touched me most was the
the community was present throughout the days in simplicity of the Taizé brothers in their
Kolkata. Sister Nirmala, Mother General of the approach and the depth of the
Missionaries of Charity too graced the ocassion. The thoughts they shared with us. The
programme included prayer services held thrice each style of prayer was so simple that the
day, common sessions, sharing in small groups, and hundreds of youth from many diverse
workshops. The Taizé prayer which is always held in cultures and countries could easily
a soothing ambience with dim lights and candles, come together as one family in prayer.”

OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 9

 Leaders’ Training Programmes
Middle East - St. Joseph’s Church, Abu Dhabi
USA - Rockford, Illinois
Europe - Ark of Covenant Diocesan Centre
for Prayer and Evangelisation, Coventry, UK
India - Logos Retreat Centre, Bangalore
Setting hearts
A series of training programmes for Jesus Youth leaders was held across four
different regions in the month of July 2006. Around 200 key leaders
attended the training held in the Middle East, USA, Europe, and India. The
training, which focused on discipleship, aimed at equipping Jesus Youth
leaders of each continent with indispensable resources and zeal for
evangelisation that would be new in fervour, expression and method. Jude
Antoine from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Colin Calmiano from Bangalore,
India - two Catholic lay missionaries and effective trainers in leadership
and ministry - were the resource persons for the programme. The
commitment, sacrifice, zeal and personal testimonies of these two dynamic
missionaries captured the hearts of everyone who attended. The input
sessions conducted by Colin and Jude covered a wide range of subjects
essential for growth in the life and ministry of a disciple. Small group
discussions, time for personal prayer, Adoration and Eucharistic
Celebrations, all of which enriched the programme, helped the participants
discover their path and role as Christian leaders. Some time was also spent
in consolidating the future plans and initiatives for each region. A prayer
service invoking the anointing of the Holy Spirit took place towards the
conclusion of the training. The participants left filled with the zeal of the
Holy Spirit to become true disciples, and leaders for Christ.
“The Jesus Youth Leadership Training
programme was a dream come true for me.
Forming and training leaders being close to
my heart, the Lord opened the door for me
through Jesus Youth. The Jesus Youth
movement is on the right track, doing the
right thing in training present and future
leaders. It is a movement that is committed,
organised and with a very clear vision. It was a joy for me to
work with them.” COLIN CALMIANO, INDIA
” This one month spent with Jesus Youth was
truly a blessed time for me. It is obvious that
the hand of God is on this ministry. This
having been my first time running a
programme for Jesus Youth, I sense the Lord
is going before you and opening the doors for
you! It is not humanly possible to orchestrate
all that you as a ministry have achieved thus
far… Praise God. Yet, I also sense that, as a
mission, JY has not yet scratched the surface of all the Lord has
in store for you. What has happened thus far is exciting but
the Lord wants to do much more than this in and through
you… ‘what no eye has seen and what no ear has heard’
(1 Cor 2:9). So friends, keep your eyes fixed on Him and press on!”
JUDE ANTOINE, MALAYSIA
 Middle East : 6th - 7th July 2006
“The training gave me the realisation that only a true disciple of Jesus can become
an effective Christian leader and that like St. Paul, I need to be a model for others
to imitate.” BAIJU JOSEPH, UAE
“The need for renewal in our lives was emphasized, along with personal growth in
spirituality. Only then can leaders help others to grow. It was really a boost for
the leaders in the Middle East and gave us a new insight on evangelization.”
JOSEMON, OMAN
“This programme brought a new determination in our lives. We were blessed to have
Colin and Jude as the resource persons; we received spiritual refreshment during
their sessions. The training has increased our faith.” MANO MATHEW, KUWAIT

on fire
USA : 12th - 16th July 2006
“I experienced spiritual and physical healing. Through the Eucharist and Adoration,
Participants at St. Joseph’s Church, Abu Dhabi, UAE

I felt a deep spiritual cleansing in my heart. It was during the Adoration that I was
blessed with physical healing. For a couple of years, I had been having pain in both
my knees, and was suffering from Osgood-Schlatter Disease. During this retreat, I
was healed of this pain forever! Now I feel God’s awesome love and joy in my heart.”
SAJAN ALEXANDER, ILLINOIS

“It was during this training, that I realized how important it is to have Christ as the
centre of one’s life. For then every aspect of our life will be influenced in a positive Participants at Rockford, Illinois, USA
way, such as the jokes we say, the books we read, the movies we watch, the
activities we partake in, friendships, and our overall thoughts.”
MILANI VARGHESE, ILLINOIS

Europe : 20th - 23rd July 2006

“The programme challenged me to a higher level of commitment and faithfulness
to the Master’s call. The interaction with the leaders from different countries has
given us a common vision, and a new direction to our activities in Europe.”
ROJO JAMES, GERMANY
“The powerful speeches, moments of silence and Adoration afforded in us an
experience of close communion with Jesus. This programme has surely paved the
way for the renewal of Europe.” FR. SONY PALATHRA CMI, PASTOR,JY IRELAND

“The idea that struck me most was the importance of being a disciple before being
a leader. It gave a whole new dimension to leadership for me.” DORIN SYMON, UK
“The Leaders’ Training Programme has had a great impact on my life. If we just
follow Jesus, surrender everything to Him and respond to His call to win souls, I Participants at Logos Retreat Centre, Bangalore, India
believe we will be able to work wonders, and life will become meaningful and
joyful.” SIJU CHACKO, ROME

India : 28th - 30th July 2006

“I was not on talking terms with one of my close friends and when I came for the
programme, I felt guilty about this and prayed for forgiveness. During Adoration,
Bro. Jude said that God was taking away feelings of guilt from three people and I
believed I was one of them. On returning home, I received a call from my friend and
we were reconciled. Praise God!” HENRY JARALD, HYDERABAD

“This training shook me. Each training I attend prunes me, teaches me to take the
next step, tells me ‘saying Yes to the Lord is not a joke’. I still need to deepen my
commitment and be open at all times to Him. I pray that I grow more in purity and
work for his Kingdom.” VINOD NAIR, MAHARASTRA
“The training helped me reinforce my priorities. Most importantly I realized that it Participants at Ark of Covenant Diocesan Centre
is not what I do or how much I do that matters but my relationship with Jesus.”
DHANYA PAUL, KERALA
for Prayer and Evangelisation, Coventry, UK

OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 11

 RE-DEFINING
CHALLENGES
JESUS YOUTH 2006 - THE ALL KERALA JESUS YOUTH FAMILY GATHERING
August 11 - 15 , 2006, St. Joseph’s HSS, Pavaratty, Thrissur
‘Jesus Youth 2006’ - the all Kerala Family
Gathering witnessed the convergence of
over 2500 participants representing the
different zones and ministries of Kerala at
St. Joseph’s HSS, Pavaratty, Thrissur,
Kerala from 11th -15th August 2006. The
preparation for the programme included a
wide range of preparatory events,
perpetual intercession and adoration for
three months, a four-month preparatory
material for each participant to study,
seminars, planting of saplings, and
outreaches. Most Rev. Dr. Francis
Kallarackal (KCBC Vice Chairman & Bishop
of Kottapuram) inaugurated the
conference, and in his inaugural address,
he exhorted the youth to become the salt
of the earth and the light of the world. The
gathering was also blessed to have Most
Rev. Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhi, Archbishop of
Thrissur celebrate the Holy Eucharist on
the second day. On the concluding day,
Most Rev. Mar Andrews Thazhath,
Auxilliary Bishop of Thrissur, graced the
occasion and addressed the participants.
The resource team for the conference
included Dr. Edward Edezhath (Animator,
Eucharistic celebration : Most Rev. Mar Jacob
Thoomkuzhi, Archbishop of Thrissur, along with
Fr. Thomas Kallukalam CMI (Animator, JY Kerala) &
Fr. Paul Payyapilly (Vicar, St. Joseph’s Church).
JY Int’l Team), Mr. V. V. Augustine (Former KST
2500 participants from Vice-Chairman), Mr. Chackochan Najavally,
Mr. Manoj Sunny (JY Int’l Co-ordinator),
21 zones & 15 ministries of Adv. Raiju Varghese (JY India Co-ordinator),
Mr. Shaji Scaria, Mr. Elvis Kottooran and others.
Kerala The key input sessions during the conference
focused on topics like JY spirituality and
220 volunteers, group & commitment in the new millennium, simplicity in
life, role of laity, fresh perspectives to build
team leaders parish centred life-style by staying rooted in cell
80 Priests & Religious groups, evangelization of the neighbourhood, JY
social concern and our option for the poor, love for
50 Jesus Youth families nature and discernment for the future. Apart from
these sessions and group discussions, other
events included Parish outreach, audio-visual
presentations, Rosary procession along
with parishoners, etc. During the days of the
conference, the participants visited the homes of
the parishoners and conducted 40 family unit
gatherings at different places of the parish
simultaneously. ‘Jesus Youth 2006’ concluded
on 15th August in the evening with a planning
session based on personal as well as ministry
level plans to build the Church and society. The
participants left this family gathering motivated
and empowered in the Spirit to change the face
of the youth in Kerala.
Inaugural ceremony : Lighting of the lamp by Most Rev.
Dr. Francis Kallarackal (KCBC Vice Chairman & Bishop of
Kottapuram).
In tune with nature: An audio visual presentation depicting Focused on the Lord: The participants come together
one of the themes of the conference. for a Eucharistic celebration.
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath with the participants, Peekskill, USA ‘Expedition to Mount Tabor’, Philadelphia, USA

USA
Mundakatt (Kerala, India) and Jose n ‘Burning Bush’
n ‘Expedition to Mount Tabor’
Fernandez (Sri Lanka) led the sessions for During the celebration of the 15th Anniversary
A weeklong celebration of faith ‘Expedition
the adults, while Asha Chandy (Florida) led of the Malayalee community in the Ruwi
to Mount Tabor’ was held at St. Thomas Syro-
the sessions for the Jesus Youth prayer parish, a musical programme ‘Burning Bush’
Malabar Church of Philadelphia from 31st July
group members. was conducted by Jesus Youth. This
to 5th August 2006. The sessions during the
n Encounter Retreat, Peekskill programme included music, dance and skits.
retreat focused on the love of God, the
A retreat for youth was held at Mount St. One of the highlights was a presentation on
Eucharist, sin, repentance, confession, etc.
Francis Convent in Peekskill, NY from 2nd - abortion and a testimony by Mrs. Raji
The resource team included Rev. Fr. Tom
6th August 2006. Apart from talks on topics explaining how Jesus saved her from
Betz, Rev. Fr. Bill Ayres (Director, Pastoral
like God’s love, sin, and confession, there committing this sin.
Care for Migrants & Refugees, Archdiocese
was also daily intercession before the n New Pastor for JY Oman
of Philadelphia) and Dr. James Kurichi
Blessed Sacrament and Holy Mass. The Rev. Fr. Chacko Mannisserril has been
among others. The last day of the
participants were blessed by a visit from appointed as the new Pastor for JY Oman.
programme was celebrated as ‘Marian Day’,
Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath of the St. - Bobby Jacob
with a visit to the National Shrine of Our
Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese of Chicago. UK
Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown.
n Family Conference 2006, Rockford n Growth Retreat, London
nSoutheast Regional Team Gathering
‘Family Conference ’06’ was held from 24th – A growth retreat for JY South Zone was
The Southeast regional team gathered to
27th August 2006 at the Bishop Lane conducted from 25th - 27th August 2006 at
pray and discern the future of the South at
Retreat Centre in Rockford, Illinois. Forty Emmaus, London. Rev. Fr. George
Orlando, Florida on 4th September 2006. Past
families participated in this conference, Kumblumootil O.P. from Rome led the retreat
initiatives and programmes were evaluated,
which was based on the theme “Arise Shine and helped the 30 participants from different
and activities, programmes, and retreats
Out”. The main resource people were parts of London to renew their relationship
were planned for the up coming months.
Professor C. C. Alicekutty and Fr. Thomas with the Lord.
n One-day Programme, Florida
Kadukapallil. n One- day Programme, Birmingham
A one-day programme for youth was
-Jyothini Malaickal Thirty-five Jesus Youth came together on 3rd
organised on 19th August 2006 at the
Knanaya Community Centre in Brandon, OMAN September 2006 for a one-day programme at
Florida. Seventy-eight youngsters attended n Taizé Prayer Walsall, Birmingham. Rev. Fr. George
the programme. Jesus Youth conducted a Taizé prayer on 24th Kumblumootil O.P. led the main sessions for
n Annual Retreat, McAllen June 2006 at the Ruwi Church and on 8th July the day.
The Valley Indian Catholic Association 2006 at the Ghala Church. 300 children, who n Teens’ Ministry, Midlands
organized an annual retreat from 1st – 3rd attended the summer camp, participated in Ten teenagers from Midlands gathered on 3rd
September 2006 at the Holy Spirit Catholic this prayer service. Rev. Fr. Joffy, who led the September 2006 to form the Teens’ Ministry in
Church in McAllen, TX. Fr. Augustine summer camp, was also present. Midlands. This group is planning to meet

‘Burning Bush’, Oman Taize’ Prayer, Oman Growth Retreat, London, UK

OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 13

GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
Retreat at Liverpool, UK
regularly and to attend a weekend retreat
before the end of the year.
n Jesus Youth Retreat, Liverpool
Around 70 Jesus Youth attended a retreat
conducted by Rev. Fr. George Kumblumootil
O.P. in Liverpool from 8th - 10th September
2006. Biju Malayatoor from USA led the
music ministry for the retreat.
- Joby M. Mundackal
KUWAIT
n Life in the Spirit Seminar
The Life in the Spirit Seminar begun in the
Cathedral Church is going on successfully,
with a good number of participants including
30 new comers.
n New Core Team & Spiritual Director
New core teams were formed in Our Lady of
Arabia Church, Ahmady and the Holy Family
Cathedral. Mahesh Peter and Pius Stanly will
be leading the respective teams. Rev. Fr.
Joseph Edapulavan OCD has been appointed
as the new Spiritual Director for JY Kuwait.
n Jesus Youth Stall in the Summer Fest
Jesus Youth arranged a stall offering a
variety of traditional Kerala food items
during the Summer Fest held at the
Cathedral Church on 1st September 2006.
n Leaders’ Training Programme
A Leaders’ Training Programme was
conducted on 26th August 2006 at the Holy
Family Cathedral with 110 participants. H. L.
Bishop Camillo Ballin MCCI, Vicar Apostolic
of Kuwait inaugurated the programme and in
his inaugural address, he expressed the
Bp. Camillo Ballin MCCI, Leaders’ Training , Kuwait
Teens’ Ministry, UK
importance of making Jesus the centre of
our lives and of the relevance of the six
pillars. The main aim of this programme was
to help the participants follow Jesus in their
daily lives through the six pillars and to
discover their talents and put them to use
for the glory of God. The theme of the day
was conveyed through input sessions, music,
audio-visual presentations, workshops, and
group discussions. The Mass and the
Adoration led by Rev. Fr. Joseph Edapulavan
OCD was a special time of anointing and
everyone received the blessing, graces and
healing of the Eucharistic Lord.
- Biju Antony
AUSTRALIA
n Taizé Night, Melbourne
A Taizé prayer service was organised in the
evening on 15th July 2006 at St. Gerald’s,
Dandenong, Melbourne. There were around
30 participants. This kind of meditative
prayer was a new experience for many of the
participants. The time of absolute silence
helped the group experience the presence of
God and reflect upon their lives and
relationship with the Almighty Father.
n Inner Healing Retreat, Melbourne
An inner healing retreat was held at St.
Francis de Sales Church, Oak Park,
Melbourne on 9th September 2006 with
around 25 participants. Lenyce Willason
(Healing Co-ordinator, CCR Melbourne
Archdiocese) along with the CCR Team of
Melbourne led the sessions, which focused
Inner healing Retreat, Australia
Abp. John Bathersay with JY group, Australia
on the environments that influence an
individual right from the time spent in the
womb. The day concluded with a time of
praying in tongues and laying of hands.
n Feast of Pentecost, Brisbane
Jesus Youth in Brisbane joined several other
Catholic youth movements to celebrate the
Feast of Pentecost on 5th June 2006. The
Barbon prayer group organized this
afternoon programme. The programme also
provided an opportunity for Jesus Youth to
personally meet and talk with Brisbane’s
Archbishop John Bathersay.
- Mayrose Pius
UAE
n ‘Thanal’ – Youth Convention
Around 1100 youth from the different zones
of Dubai gathered at St. Mary’s Church,
Dubai, for a one-day JY convention ‘Thanal’
on 25th August 2006. As the name ‘Thanal’
(which means ‘shade’ in Malayalam)
suggests, the main objective of the
programme was to help the participants
encounter Jesus as a personal refuge and
shelter in life. One of the highlights of the
day was the release of the 3rd Anniversary
special issue of Thoolika, the weekly
newsletter of JY Dubai by Rev. Fr. Joy
(Spiritual Director, JY Dubai) during the
Eucharistic Celebration.
n ‘Kingdom 2006’, Al Ain
An evening retreat was conducted from 30th
July to 3rd August at Al Ain for 140 lower,
middle and high school students.
Leaders’ Training, Jammu, India
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
Youth Retreat, Bangalore, India
n Christeen Programme, Dubai
Around 180 participants from the different
emirates attended a one-day Christeen
programme for children and parents on 1st
September 2006 at St. Mary’s Church, Dubai.
Ms. Marykutty and Mr. Santhosh led the
sessions for the day.
n UAE Commitment Team Gathering
The UAE Commitment Team gathered on 1st
September 2006 at the Jebel Ali Church.
Around 110 Jesus Youth from 6 different
emirates attended this meeting. The
importance of cell groups was the theme of
the day.
n ‘The Blessed’, Fujairah
JY Fujairah conducted a one-day retreat ‘The
Blessed’ on 15th September at OLPH Church,
Fujairah for 350 participants. The day’s
programme based on the theme ‘You Are
Mine’, included praise & worship, a talk by
Rev. Fr. George Rozario, music and Mass.
n Pro-life Presentation
The newly formed Pro-Life Ministry in Dubai
conducted a 30 minutes’ presentation on
Pro-life at the Malayalee Charismatic Annual
Fellowship, Dubai Parish. The presentation
inspired hundreds of people present to stand
up for life.
- Doly Mathew
INDIA
n Leaders’ Training Programme, Trichy
35 leaders from different parts of Tamil
Nadu came together for a Training
‘Thanal’ Youth Convention, Dubai, UAE
Abp. Abraham Viruthakulungara with the Full Time Volunteers, New Delhi, India
Programme at SCJM Convent, Trichy from
26th to 27th August 2006. A new Tamil Nadu
Regional Team was also formed with Paulson
Jose as the Co-ordinator.
n Full time Volunteers’ (Hindi batch)
The Full time Volunteers’ training in Hindi
was conducted at Don Bosco, Delhi, from 7th
July to 15th August 2006 with 15 participants
from 8 states of North India. The
participants, belonging mostly to the tribal
belt, comprised of 7 women and 8 men
including 3 priests. The Jesus Youth Full time
Volunteers’ Training team, animated by Fr.
Cherian Nereveetil and Sr. Vigi Rose, helped
by JY Delhi and the Santavana Community,
conducted the 40-days’ intensive training.
The finacial help provided by the Salesian
Fathers was a big support for this training.
The different stages of the training
comprised of various sessions and teachings
on discipleship, evangelization, Church, etc.
The resource persons included Bishop Anil
Couto (Auxilliary Bishop of Delhi), Mr.
Wilson, Mr. Santhosh Chittilapally, members
of the JY Delhi Service Team and others. The
young participants were commissioned in a
grace-filled Commitment Ceremony presided
by Most Rev. Abraham Viruthakulungara
[Archbishop of Nagpur] accompanied by 7
other priests on 15th August 2006. During the
commissioning ceremony, the Archbishop
blessed each of the full-timers and
encouraged them to be true disciples of
Christ. Six of these missionaries have been
placed in different parts of northern and
central India for a year, where they will
interact with the local people and form
discipleship and prayer groups. One full time
volunteer has also been placed in the
Andamans.
n National Intercession Day
15th August - the Independence Day of India
and the feast of the Assumption was also
celebrated by JY India as the National
Intercession Day. In many places, including
Delhi and Bangalore where there are
perpetual intercession centres, the youth
spent the day in adoration and prayer. The
Nurses’ Ministry organised a prayer with
lighted candles (Jeevajyothi) in many nursing
schools, hospitals and hostels in different
states. In the northern and southern states of
India, the Teens’ Ministry introduced a
creative element to the day by planting
saplings.
n Rexband Retreat & Concert, Bangalore
Rexband conducted a retreat for about 1300
Christian students of Christ College on 9th
and 10th September. The retreat concluded
with a Rexband concert.
n One-day programme, Manipal
A one-day programme was conducted at St.
Joseph’s Church, Manipal on 27th August
2006. Nearly 250 students from the different
colleges of Manipal and Udupi attended this
programme.
JY Volunteers, Singapore
OCTOBER 2006 PAGE 15
 GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

Jesus Net, Singapore ‘Hope 2006’, Ireland Jesus Encounter Programme, Switzerland

n Leadership Training, Jammu talks on different topics, skits and sharing from 15th to 17th September 2006. The first
A Leadership Training Programme was sessions. There were around 35 participants. ever JY programme to be held in Switzerland,
conducted at the Bishop’s House in Jammu on n JY Volunteers this programme encouraged the young
9th and 10th September 2006 for over 60 JY 40 JY volunteers helped out during the people to invite Jesus into their lives and
leaders. The resource team included Raiju annual Our Lady’s Procession 2006 at the enter into a personal relationship with Him.
Varghese (Co-ordinator, JY India), Baby Novena Church. A novena in honour of The retreat was led by Fr. George
Chacko, and Rajan Joseph. A Regional Mother Mary is conducted at the Novena Kumblumootil O.P. from Rome and helped by
Service Team for Jesus Youth in Jammu & Church each Saturday and is attended by Biju Malayatoor from Florida, USA and Jose
Kashmir was formed at the end of this almost 100,000 people. The JY volunteers Mathew - Co-ordinator, JY Europe. The
training, with Babu Bunty and Sunny Kokhar were given the responsibility to distribute presence of parents and elders from the
as the Co-ordinator and the Asst. coordinator mass booklets and prayer cards to the Catholic Charismatic Community in
respectively. Rev. Fr. Robin Francis Cerejo is participants of the procession. Switzerland who spent the weekend helping
the Pastor, while Rev. Sr. Falicita has been - Biju Joseph in the kitchen and interceding through out
selected as the Animator of the team. NEW ZEALAND the programme was also very encouraging.
n Youth Retreat, Bangalore n Bible Study - Jose Mathew
A retreat led by Fritz Mascarehnas (ICPE) was ‘Angels’ Army’ – a group of 20 children from
held at the Renewal Retreat Centre from 24th the age of 4 to 12 gather every first Sunday
to 27th August 2006 with over 175 participants. of the month for faith building Bible study in
This was the second in a series of three annual Auckland. The group is divided into two
youth retreats planned by JY Bangalore. classes.
n One-day Programme, Trichy - Liza Johnson
A one-day programme was conducted at St. IRELAND
Joseph’s School, Trichy on 12th August 2006 for n ‘Hope 2006’
250 students. Fr. Baiju Parackal O.S.S.T from An initiation retreat ‘Hope 2006’ was
Bangalore was the main resource person. organised by JY Ireland from 22nd to 24th
- Soji K. Joseph September 2006 for 45 participants. The
SINGAPORE programme based on the theme ‘You are the
n Jesus Net light of the world’, included a two-day
Jesus Net - JY Singapore’s central prayer retreat and a one-day pilgrimage to Knock -
gathering takes place on every first Saturday a popular pilgrim centre in Ireland. In his
of the month at the Ave Maria Room, Novena inaugural address, Sean Ascough (leader,
Church. This gathering, which is attended by Youth 2000, Ireland) spoke on the role of
about 80 regular members, usually begins Jesus Youth towards the re-evangelisation of
with Rosary, followed by action songs, skits, Europe. Rev. Fr. Jestus Paul O.P. was the
speech, praise and worship, etc. On 5th main resource person for the retreat. Mr.
August 2006 Mr. A.V Pius was the key Jose Mathew (Co-ordinator, JY Europe) was
also present. ‘Hope 2006’ motivated the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary,
resource person, while on 2nd September
inspire our hearts with a sincere
Mr. Tomy conducted the main session. The participants in assuming greater
love for this devotion, so that by
basic focus of this gathering is faith responsibility towards the evangelisation of
meditating on the Mysteries of our
formation and evangelisation. Europe.
Redemption that are recalled in it,
n Formation Programme - Nissy Bhaven
we may gather its fruits and obtain
The Professionals’ ministry conducted SWITZERLAND blessings for soul and body, peace
formation programmes for its ministry n Jesus Encounter Programme for the world, freedom for the
members on 5th August and 10th September 25 youth from various parts of Switzerland Church, the conversion of sinners,
2006 at the CANA Catholic Centre, Singapore. came together at the Franziskus house in and the salvation of our souls.
The sessions included praise and worship, input Dulliken for a Jesus Encounter Programme Amen.

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