7 JYCONFERENCE

OCEANIA
11 RECOMMITMENT
DAY 13 JYTRAININGS
INTERNATIONAL
14 GLOBAL
NEWSWATCH

JESUSYOUTH
APRIL 2008

International Newsletter

Putintoout
A MISSIONARY MOVEMENT AT THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH

the
deep TEN INSPIRING PERSPECTIVES
ON THE RECENTLY RELEASED LETTER TO JESUS YOUTH

IN MATTHEW 13:31 JESUS GIVES US THE PARABLE OF THE MUSTARD SEED, WHICH IS THE SMALLEST
OF ALL SEEDS, YET WHEN FULL-GROWN, BECOMES THE LARGEST OF PLANTS; SO BIG A SHRUB THAT
THE BIRDS OF THE SKY CAN BUILD THEIR NESTS IN ITS BRANCHES. This is the image that comes to my
mind when I think of ‘Jesus Youth’. From the most simple and humble origins in the early 1980’s, the
Lord has blessed ‘Jesus Youth’ so abundantly that she stretches out her branches to practically the
whole world. Peoples of many nations, of various cultures and milieus, from different age groups and
walks of life, find shelter under her wings.

CONTD. ON PAGE 3

‘‘
MY DEAR YOUNG
FRIENDS, THE HOLY SPIRIT
CONTINUES TODAY TO ACT
WITH POWER IN THE
CHURCH, AND THE FRUITS OF
THE SPIRIT ARE ABUNDANT IN
THE MEASURE IN WHICH WE
ARE READY TO OPEN UP TO
THIS POWER THAT MAKES
ALL THINGS NEW. FOR THIS
REASON IT IS IMPORTANT
THAT EACH ONE OF US KNOW
THE SPIRIT, ESTABLISH A
RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM AND
ALLOW OURSELVES TO BE
GUIDED BY HIM. HOWEVER, AT
THIS POINT A QUESTION
NATURALLY ARISES: WHO IS
THE HOLY SPIRIT FOR ME? IT
IS A FACT THAT FOR MANY
CHRISTIANS HE IS STILL THE
“GREAT UNKNOWN”. THIS IS
WHY, AS WE PREPARE FOR
THE NEXT WORLD YOUTH DAY,
‘‘
I WANTED TO INVITE YOU TO
COME TO KNOW THE HOLY
SPIRIT MORE DEEPLY AT A
PERSONAL LEVEL.
Message of the Holy Father
Benedict XVI to the young people
of the world on the occasion of
the XXIII World Youth Day 2008.
HEART TALK
A few weeks ago, I was in a couple of cities in the North of India, animating and
praying with groups of young people who have a specific call to leadership. It was, for
me, one more time of experiencing first hand the astonishing work of the Holy Spirit.
Interestingly, I found two kinds of young people within the groups. The first were
confident, techno-savvy ones completely at ease in today’s world and exposed to
youth retreats. The second were young people who had come in from villages and
inhabited an entirely different world in terms of lifestyle, linguistic expressions,
perceptions and attitudes. For them, such a spiritual training was the first experience
of its kind. In fact, the differences were so obvious that we ended up having two
parallel sessions for both groups.
Towards the end of the programme the groups came together to pray for a fresh infilling
of the Holy Spirit. We called upon the Holy Spirit and it was a time of a great outpouring
of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Many in both groups opened up to the Spirit and
committed themselves to the Lord. Yet when it came to manifestations of the gifts of the
Holy Spirit, I was thoroughly surprised by a specially abundant outpouring of gifts on
the second group. Most of them were completely taken over by the power of the Spirit as
they freely and fluently spoke in tongues and praised the Lord. It would have been easy
to assume that the less exposed group would find it difficult to open up to the Spirit.
Yet they were the ones who were powerfully drenched in the Spirit. That’s exactly the
beauty of the Holy Spirit at work. He keeps surprising us in the most unexpected ways.
In no way am I suggesting that the Holy Spirit’s manifestations are less evident in urban
groups. In fact, in some of the Jesus Youth groups in developed countries, I have seen
young people work twelve hours every day and then drive ten hours to come together for
team meetings - only to get back to work again. Where does such power come from
other than from the Holy Spirit? In each situation and each culture the Holy Spirit
manifests himself in different ways - always unexpected, always surprising.
Each time I hear about a new initiative or idea at work, I am amazed by the creativity of
the Holy Spirit. Yet the next time around I hear something even more amazing and
totally unexpected. Every time I travel, every time I meet new groups, every time I hear
testimonies of young people, this one fact never fails to strike me - you never know
what the Holy Spirit will come up with next!
So what is the Holy Spirit telling us through His constant surprises?
Firstly, I believe He is calling us to be aware of the powerful move that is happening
around the world. And this move is something that I have experienced personally and
felt deep in my heart. He is exhorting us to keep our eyes constantly open to the
matters of the Spirit in this physical world. Especially so in today’s fast paced world
where we continually face the danger of being distracted from the eternal truths by our
busy schedules and seemingly important meetings.
Secondly, He could be asking us to break down the limitations that we create within
ourselves and in our groups. Often we build frameworks and set limits to the Holy
Spirit. Perhaps we prefer the Holy Spirit to work within our comfort zones and
conveniences so that we stay in control. Yet a glance at the scriptures and history
shows us that nothing has ever stopped the surge of the Holy Spirit.
Especially at this juncture when the movement is putting out into the deep, let us
pray for the grace to be perfectly sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in our
daily lives - whether it be surprising ideas, projects, insights, visions or revelations.
Let us also remember that putting out into the deep is all about setting out into the
unknown, trusting in the Holy Spirit, risking what we have.
Isn’t it beautiful that the call within the World Youth Day pilgrimage is also the same?
A call to ‘receive the power’ of the Holy Spirit and carry it back into our lives?
Moreover, as we Jesus Youth prepare ourselves for a recommitment of our lives on
Pentecost Day let us pray for the courage to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit,
however unexpected or surprising they may be.
“Holy Spirit… Bless me with all your gifts, fruits and charisms so that I may grow
steadily in holiness and effectively live out my missionary call.” (From the Official
Jesus Youth Recommitment Prayer, 2008)
Wishing you many more surprises of the Holy Spirit,
Manoj Sunny
Jesus Youth International Co-ordinator
COVER STORY
Put out into the deep
While this growth is definitely a
matter of great joy and pride, it also
brings an enormous responsibility
upon every Jesus Youth. As we move
towards the silver jubilee year of
our movement, it is imperative
that we do some serious soul
searching: as individual Jesus
Youth, as prayer groups or cell
groups, and as ministries or
apostolates in Jesus Youth. This is
what the International Team of
Jesus Youth tried to do during its
last meeting in Munnar, India. The
prompting of the Holy Spirit was so
clear at this meeting that the team
decided to come out with the first
ever ‘Letter to Jesus Youth’
worldwide.
I hope, by now, that every Jesus
Youth has had a chance to go
through the letter which contains a
historic self evaluation of the
movement, a realistic perusal of
the Church and world around us, a
call to a critical analysis of current
situations and challenges faced by
the youth of today, and of course a
powerful impetus to move forward
with great hope. Indeed this is a
timely gift of the Holy Spirit to the
movement that gives us a good
chance to reflect, to discuss, to
share, to pray and to plan for the
future. What follows is a reflection
on each of the 10 articles of the
‘Letter to Jesus Youth’ by JY
animators and leaders from across the
world. Thus, in our journey together,
may this letter help us to collectively
listen to the Lord and discern the way
ahead for Jesus Youth!
FR. THOMAS THARAYIL, INDIA
Pastor, Jesus Youth International Team
1. A GROWING SENSE OF HOPE
The question being continuously asked is how Christian hope
can survive in a world engulfed by pessimism. We live at a
crossroads of time when the urban population outnumbers
the rural, thanks to globalization that begets a galaxy of
opportunities for growth through global connectivity along
with the promise of easy money and cozy lives. Young people
and adolescents form the chunk of the commuters and
players in the new world stage of money-power and
management. Yet, all that glitters is not gold. Globalization
spews nails of despair and disillusion that splinter the
unsullied love and companionship of the rural habitats. It
salinises human mutuality with utility and disparages a give-
and-take society for the sake of profit. Once again the youth
are the prime victims of a bonanza, which is momentary and
shaky, not to count the growing masses of people getting
depleted of the bare essentials for survival. Pessimism and
nihilism seem to get the best win.
To be a Christian means to be a person of undying hope. The
fountain of hope for a Christian, however, lies not in the
managerial skills for success and wins. JY has helped many
young people experience a profound joy and hope through
worship and fellowship. At the heart of these celebrations
there lies the rock of truth, namely a meeting with the Lord
Jesus that dispels the darkness of soul and moistens it with
a wellspring of trust and communion. The history that we
navigate is a history of all people; but it is also the history
steered by the Spirit of the Risen Lord. The awareness
Contd. from page 1
that the Spirit is at work in
transforming this world according to
the designs of God generates
irresistible hope within the heart of a
believer. The Gospel of Christ
entrusted to us is redeeming and
empowers us to become catalysts for
a new world order of peace and love,
as also
torchbearers of
optimism and
beacons of hope.
FR. JAMES
ANAPARAMBIL, INDIA
2. THE RESPONSE OF THE
MOVEMENT TO THE WORLD
AROUND
The seven key themes of the social
teaching of the Catholic Church form
the basis of this reflection, starting
with the foundational principle, the
sanctity of human life and dignity of
the person. As Jesus Youth we have
the responsibility to stand for the
sanctity of life and the inherent
dignity of the human person starting
from conception through natural
death. Spreading the awareness and
participation in pro-life ministry is
one of the main responsibilities of
our movement.
The call to family, community, and
participation that the Church gives
out is one that no Jesus Youth can
ignore. The family is the first and
most basic unit of society and is a
sanctuary for the creation and
nurturing of children. Full human
development takes place in
relationship with others. There needs
to be a serious reflection in our
movement about the study and
advancement of the economic,
political, and cultural life of society
as a vehicle for human progress.
The rights and responsibilities of
every person with regard to life and
to what is required to live a full and
decent life, such as employment,
health care, education, and religious
freedom need to be constantly
defended. In a world where
boundaries of freedom are defined by
power stakeholders and autocratic
APRIL 2008 PAGE 3
leaders, the courage to initiate and
participate in the moves to defend
this freedom can be seen as a basic
responsibility of every Jesus Youth.
Through our words, prayers and
deeds we must show solidarity with
and compassion for the poor. In
this context it may be noted that
healthcare is becoming
unaffordable for ordinary families
all over the world. The Jesus Youth
movement has an abundant
number of healthcare professionals
- doctors, nurses, therapists, etc.
It is time for us to ponder about our
contribution to humanity.
Jesus Youth everywhere need to see
that the dignity of work and the
rights of workers are safeguarded in
their work and business
environment.
Solidarity as a Christian virtue is
something we need to practice
though we may be separated by
distance, language or culture, for
solidarity includes the scriptural call
to welcome the stranger among us -
including immigrants. Ministries
with immigrant focus and systems
of education for their children
(small community schools) are the
areas we need to explore to address
the new immigration challenges.
Care for God’s creation,
environmental protection and
preservation of natural resources
and resisting a destructive
consumer mentality are
responsibilities we cannot shirk as
stewards of the
“goods of the
earth” God has
gifted us.
SUNIL
NADARAJAN,USA
3. A CRITIQUE OF
CONTEMPORARY VALUES
The call of Jesus Youth is to build a
counter culture in the present day
world of abundance, affluence and
materialism; a world with more
love, friendship, compassion and
care for the less privileged.
Certainly, all the varied aspects of
life will be impacted by the new
culture initiated by the Jesus Youth.
Here’s looking ahead with hope to
this great sway Jesus Youth will
have on the standards of the world.
As people become more and more flamboyant and life
more luxurious, Jesus Youth will wear cheaper dresses,
live in less affluent houses, ride ordinary vehicles, use
simple appliances and less costly mobile phones. They
will certainly overcome the temptation to possess all the
comforts of life. Making their lives simple by keeping out
of the rat race to amass wealth and by dissociating
happiness from worldly possessions, they will live a life
of contentment, satisfied with the basic requirements of
life instead of allowing the media and advertisements to
make them want for more. As a pilgrim people travelling
with minimum baggage they will need to create new
paradigms regarding the possessions people need in life.
In a world that values ingenuity and deception, the Jesus
Youth will fashion lives by being truthful always in their
words and deeds and saying ‘no’ to compromises and
shortcuts for getting things done. In the face of cutthroat
competition Jesus Youth will be found sharing more with
the last, least and lost. The world that Jesus Youth builds
will have people with lesser and lesser disparities in
income and wealth. There will be too, an increasing
number of volunteers venturing out to many areas for no
financial gain at all. As the world focuses more on rights
and privileges, Jesus Youth will mould a different world
by focusing on doing more, taking up the cross and
walking the extra mile. Building the kingdom of God
being their priority, Jesus Youth will spend more time for
others by reaching out of their comfort zones. When the
world devises ways of avoiding and overcoming pain,
Jesus Youth will understand and realize the redemptive
power of pain and suffering.
Thus will Jesus Youth live out their call
to be a joyful contradiction in this
world.
CHACKOCHAN NJAVALLIL, INDIA
4. CHALLENGING OURSELVES TO A
DEEPER PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP
WITH JESUS
The core concern of Jesus Youth is the ever renewing and
ever widening personal walk with Jesus. To build a strong
personal relationship with Jesus we need first of all to
‘know Him deeply’. As we confront various challenges and
problems in this fast paced and busy
world, we need a deep-rooted faith
and relation with Jesus Christ to lead
a peaceful life. Our busy official and
personal schedules often come in the
way of strengthening our faith and
nourishing our relationship with Jesus.
Only when we come to know and
experience Jesus in a deeper way will
it be possible for us to fix our
priorities and to realize that nothing
can “separate us from the love of
Christ”. The best way to know Him
deeply is to read the Word of God
daily and meditate on it. Secondly, we
need to spend time with Him regularly
in prayer and slowly the Holy Spirit
will guide us into a meaningful
relationship with Jesus. Similarly, the
other constants of Jesus Youth will
help us to grow more in Jesus. We
need also to know ourselves and
others. As we grow in knowledge,
experience and leadership, we need to
nurture this personal relationship with
God. This is the secret of the joy and
hope that sustains many Jesus Youth
members and families, helping them
to lead holy lives. So let us start an
“itinerary of
holiness” in our
daily life with the
help of Mother
Mary.
SANTHOSH
MATHEW, UAE
5.FORMATION IN
STEADFASTNESS
Today’s world is marked by progress
in every walk of life. Alongside of
this, there is a threatening spirit of
regression characterized by self-
centredness, individualistic
perceptions and pluralistic views.
Consequently Christian values are
challenged and eternal truth is
abandoned. While popular culture
justifies violence, stimulates lust and
incorporates occult images, the
values of life are compromised and
even pollute spiritual life. Christians
have a responsibility to create and
develop Christian alternatives and be
spiritually transformed into new
people and communities.
Christian formation is not a solitary,
self-contained activity but a
communal experience. Faith is
formed, developed and deepened in
community rather than individualistic
isolation. While mechanical
religiosity tempts the ‘flock’ to be
satisfied with the minimum, the
basic faith communities build up a
new breed of committed sons and
daughters of the Church.
Formation should also be
understood in the context of
vocation, for the goal of Christian
formation for each person in faith
communities is to have a clear
perception of his or her personal
vocation as a missionary of the
Lord. The process of discerning
one’s vocation centres on the
capacity to listen to the will of
God and Christian formation
assists us in this process.
Nevertheless, the goal of
formation is not achieved by
simply knowing what God wants,
but also by discerning and acting
on God’s will.
In the Jesus Youth movement cell
groups or small fellowship groups
provide an avenue for this: they
are small, intimate gatherings of
youth/ families that come together
regularly to nurture their
relationship with God and one
another. Cells or small fellowship
groups are the basic units of the
Jesus Youth movement that play
an important role in the mutual
enrichment, spiritual guidance and
formation of young Christians in a
creative way. Having celebrated
last year as the ‘Year of Cells’ with
a renewed focus on encouraging
existing cell groups and fostering
the growth of new cells, Jesus
Youth should continue the process
of spiritual formation to shape and
mould disciples
for the Kingdom
of God.
RAJESH
THALAPILLIL,
AUSTRALIA
6. A LIFESTYLE OF
OPENNESS
AND DIALOGUE
Dialogue and openness must be
an integral part of the Jesus
Youth lifestyle. Witnessing to the
Lord in the rapidly changing
modern context has been a strong
characteristic of the Jesus Youth
Movement. In today’s multi-
religious society, our interaction
with people of other faiths
continually challenges us to
respond in the manner indicated
by St. Peter: “Always have the
answer ready for people who ask you the reason for the
hope that you all have, but give it with courtesy and
respect and with a clear conscience” (1 Pet 3:15-16).
Inter-religious dialogue, properly understood and faithfully
carried out, complements our duty as baptized Catholics to
proclaim the Lord Jesus Christ. Thus a lifestyle of openness
and dialogue, deep-rooted in faith and with the sole
purpose of evangelizing, is the need of the hour for those
in the Jesus Youth movement. Inter-religious or inter-
denominational dialogue must always aim to be a time of
exchange, beginning with a full awareness of differences,
and a time to deepen our experience of the Lord, being
open to a conversion of heart.
A dialogue of faith is not just discussing ideas or
comparing beliefs. It is an attitude of openness to our
neighbours, a sharing of spiritual resources, for peace
and reconciliation. Such an attitude allows us to enter
into a reciprocal relationship that aids in mutual learning
and deeper understanding of our faith. Such dialogue is
not easy, though. The basis of such a dialogue is always
our faith in the Lord and the missionary zeal in us to
make Him known to all people. Thus, meaningful dialogue
with our brothers and sisters, whom God has created
according to His wonderful plan for the world, can lead to
a strengthening of our own faith and convictions.
Therefore, as Jesus Youth, we should be bold enough to
incorporate into our lifestyle, an
openness to dialogue, as it will only
deepen our faith and enrich our God
experience.
ANDREW MENDEZ, SINGAPORE
7. CENTRALITY OF THE
NEEDY AND THE POOR
So great are the poor in the sight of
the Lord that all through the Bible,
we see God taking sides with the
marginalized and giving preference
to the poor and the needy. In the
Old Testament Yahweh is the
champion of the oppressed and the
poor. In the New Testament, God
sends His only son into this world
“to preach the Gospel to the poor”
(Luke 4:18) and we see Christ
constantly siding with the poor all
through his life. Jesus preferred the
poor to the rich. So much so that He
chose the entire lot of His Apostolic
College from among the poor, to
live and associate with, making
them the agents of His Gospel.
Being disciples and friends of the
Lord also means being friends with
the poor. We have to become a
community with them because of
Christ’s preferential love for them.
The Fathers of the Church like Sts.
Ambrose, Basil, Gregory and
Ephrem were forthright and
challenging in their attitude and
outlook. They always took sides
with the poor. Let us dare to make
a study of the Fathers of the Church
concerning social questions and
APRIL 2008 PAGE 5
their concern for the poor and the
needy. Also, from Popes Leo XIII to
John Paul II, there are half a dozen
encyclicals manifesting the
church’s concern for the less
privileged and her Magisterium in
this direction.
Working for the Kingdom means
acknowledging and promoting
God’s activity, which is present in
human history and transforms it.
Building up the kingdom means
working for liberation from evil in
all forms. Oppressive poverty that
is prevalent all over, breeds a
systematic violation of the dignity
of men, women, children and the
unborn, which is totally against the
kingdom. Option for the poor
means an option to be with the
poor. We need to become the voice
of the voiceless and be simple and
genuine. Amidst the fast growing
affluence and consumerism around
us, we have a duty and
responsibility to challenge
ourselves and to become credible
signs of the Kingdom by
responding creatively to this
complex reality of
the poor.
FR. ABRAHAM
PALLIVATHUKAL
S.J., INDIA
8. TO BE POOR IN SPIRIT
Jesus Youth as a movement and as
individuals should take to heart St.
Paul’s exhortation to have ‘the same
mind as Jesus’ who ‘did not regard
equality with God as something to
be exploited’ but emptied himself
totally for us. (Phil 2:5-6) “Though
he was rich, yet for our sakes he
became poor, so that by his poverty
you become rich.” (2Cor.8: 9)
God wants us to be Jesus’ presence as
individuals and communities witnessing
to a counter culture, posing a challenge
in this selfish, greedy and corrupt world,
winning individuals, groups and nations
for Jesus, being a transforming
presence in the Church and the world.
We are called to be holy, in perfect
detachment and simplicity. It is our
intimacy with Jesus and our conviction
and experience of possessing
everything by possessing God that will
set us free from all attachments to the
material world and make us free to
serve the people. The secret of our
joyfulness, informality, simplicity,
warmth, openness and availability is
10. BUILDING UP OF
LEADERSHIP
Jesus Youth often exudes a freshness
of the breath of the Spirit, which
strikes a newcomer as warmth and
intimacy in relationships and a
yearning for fidelity to inner life. But
this needs to be guided to maturity,
lest it be “tossed to and fro and
carried about with every wind of
doctrine, by the cunning of men”
(Eph. 4:14). In maintaining this
delicate balance between a Spirit-led
this inner freedom. The whole world and all scientific and simplicity and visionary depth of
technological developments are ours and we must use them all for leadership, proper formation has an
the Kingdom without being enslaved or possessed by them. Then important place. This is somewhat in
we will be able to glorify God and witness to God’s providence, the line of what Jesus calls a
acknowledging with Mary our Mother, “the Mighty One has done balanced ‘training for the Kingdom’
great things for me” (Luke 1:49). (Mt. 13:52), integrating the
youthfulness and dynamism of this
It takes real courage and deep spirituality to be poor in generation with the age-old wisdom
spirit in today’s world. As Jesus Youth we are called to be of Catholic spirituality.
different and to make a difference in the world. For this
we need to know the truth about us revealed in the Over the years Jesus Youth has
scriptures: “For who sees anything different in you? What developed a number of training
do you have that you did not receive? And if you received approaches and packages combining
it, why do you boast as if it were not a gift?” 1Cor.4: 7. Biblical wisdom, teachings of the
“For you say, ‘I am rich, I have prospered Church, contemporary knowledge
and I need nothing. You do not realize sources and the specific reflections
that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, of the movement. Delivered in the
blind and naked” Rev.3: 17. setting of a dynamic Jesus Youth
community, maintaining the
C.C. ALICEKUTTY, INDIA simplicity of a peer initiative along
with the active accompaniment of
9. FOCUSING ON MIGRANTS contemporary modes and modern
Migrants are individuals who have moved to a foreign country media, these modules can be
for better prospects in life having left their immediate family attractive, life changing and
empowering.
members in their home country. Migrants face a lot of
challenges beginning with the difficult situation of moving
away from home. One major challenge is to adjust with the Today’s challenge for deepening
new culture, people, climate, clothing, food, shelter, rules implies reaching everyone in the
and regulations. A greater challenge is how to hold on to movement with a steady, ongoing
their values and spirituality in the new country. This formation: a training in ‘six pillars’
particularly affects those with families and kids. and cell participation for the new
members, and for the seniors,
As Jesus Youth, we have the opportunity to offer a formation in greater
spiritual and social platform where the migrants and their resourcefulness to be creative
families can anchor their lives. In every country Jesus trainers, insightful mentors and
Youth should have a wing to give such help. We can invite visionary community builders. The
them, communicate with them and offer as much support movement as a whole has already
as possible. Through our example and witness, we can taken the Pauline Year seriously
nurture a positive attitude in them towards the culture and Bible study materials are
they live in and help them integrate the good in the new reaching groups far and wide. The
culture as well as in their home culture. To achieve this new word based Jesus Youth Prayer
goal, we need to prioritize what we hold as good and is gradually becoming popular. As
practise them in our lives. Regular Sunday worship, family the movement surges ahead to ‘put
prayers, family meal and respect towards elderly people out into the deep’ let us listen to
are some of them. It is always good to associate with His command, the Word, with
local people of the same spirituality, values and culture. It renewed earnestness to reap a
is good to participate in the programmes organized by the richer harvest of effective
local groups. Finally, if Jesus Youth can witnessing in the
organize prayer and cell groups, retreats world around.
and seminars for the migrants, it will
EDWARD
give them a strong spiritual mooring.
EDEZHATH, INDIA
FR. SEBASTIAN ARIKAT, UK
 26TH – 28TH JANUARY 2008 LATROBE UNIVERSITY, BUNDOORA

Inauguration: Archbsp Dennis J. Hart

GRAND FINALE: Participants along with Bishop Christopher Prowse & Fr. John Aravankara

The Jesus Youth Oceania Conference ‘Love

Beyond Borders’ held at Latrobe University,
Bundoora from 26th – 28th January 2008,
Jesus Youth
Oceania
with participants from all across Australia,
marked a new milestone for the Jesus
Youth movement in the country. The
conference was inaugurated by Archbishop
Dennis J. Hart of Melbourne, following
which Fr. John Aravankara, Pastor, JY

Conference
Australia consecrated the conference to
the Immaculate Heart of Mother Mary. In
his inaugural address, Archbishop Hart
encouraged the young people to gather
their treasure in heaven and to fall in love
with Jesus, who had called them there.

The keynote address by the Jesus Youth

International Co-ordinator, Manoj Sunny,
showcased the real world situations that
young people face today in their daily lives.
“The only answer to the questions for the
youth of the world today is Jesus”, he
emphasised throughout his session. His
Excellency Bishop Christopher Prowse,
Patron of JY Australia touched the hearts
of the entire Jesus Youth movement when
he said, “With you I am a Christian but for
you I am your bishop”. His simple and
humble attitude truly reflected the real meaning of ‘Love Beyond Borders’. Being stuck
in an airport for three days did not dampen the spirits of the dynamic speaker Mark
Nimo. He arrived on the second day of the conference, fully charged to spread God’s
word. Mark, with his Spirit-filled and vibrant sessions, was able to reach into the depths
of the hearts and minds of the youth and create a new ‘METANOIA’ (Conversion in Greek).
With his enthusiasm, energy and dynamics, he challenged the youth to be holy. The
celebration of the Holy Eucharist was a time of abundant grace. The Liturgy ministry
under the guidance of Raiju Varghese did a great job with the altar decoration, creating a
solemn atmosphere for the celebration of the Holy Mass. On the final day, the Mass was
celebrated by Bishop Joe Grech from Sanhurst diocese. “Never sell yourself short;

APRIL 2008 PAGE 7

because Jesus Christ lives inside of you,”
His Excellency repeated throughout his
homily. His contagious enthusiasm was
transferred to the participants.
The Taizé night was a one-of-a-kind
experience with everyone gathered around
the cross and the icon of Mother Mary, and
surrounded by greenery. The candle lights
added to the pious environment and all
were led into an inner silence that helped
them to surrender themselves to the Lord.
The session on inner healing by Alan
Panozza, former International President for
ICCRS, was followed by an inner healing
prayer that touched the hearts of everyone.
The healing ministers from CCR Melbourne
“SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL
HAPPENED TO ALL OF US AT THE
JESUS YOUTH OCEANIA
CONFERENCE. IT WAS NOT SO MUCH
THAT IT WAS ORGANISED SO WELL,
OR THE MUSIC WAS WONDERFUL,
OR THE ATMOSPHERE OF
FRIENDSHIP IN THE LORD GREW AS
THE WEEKEND PROGRESSED. IT WAS
NOT “SOMETHING”: IT WAS
“SOMEONE” - IT WAS THE PRESENCE
OF THE HOLY SPIRIT AMONG US.
JESUS WAS SO ABUNDANTLY WITH
US. SO, A LITTLE “NEW PENTECOST”
HAS HAPPENED! PRAISE THE LORD!
NOW LET US MATURE IN THE HOLY
SPIRIT. LET US MEET TOGETHER AND
FORM CELL GROUPS. LET US DEEPEN
WHAT HAS BEEN GIVEN AS A GIFT.
LET US FIND OUT WHAT IT MEANS TO
BE CATHOLIC EVANGELISERS TO ALL
OF OCEANIA, ESPECIALLY THE POOR
AND MARGINALISED. LET US ALL GO
TO MEET OUR BELOVED POPE
BENEDICT XVI NEXT JULY FOR
WORLD YOUTH DAY!”
BISHOP CHRISTOPHER PROWSE,
PATRON, JESUS YOUTH AUSTRALIA
gave personal attention to every individual
and prayed for each one of them. One could
see the joy of freedom and feel the unification
in the Spirit as everyone left the hall that day.
For most, it was the beginning of a renewed
zeal to live for Jesus.
All the participants were up on their feet as
the music ministry vibrated throughout the
three days with Shelton Pinheiro and Beena
Manoj, the lead vocalists of the Rexband to
lead it on. It was a big change from the first
day to the last when people were out of their
seats to dance to the rhythm of the music for
His glory. The audio-visual team coordinated
by Dony Peter added colour and great
momentum to the conference. The musical
testimony by Gary Pinto (Australian musician) “ THERE WAS A GREAT ATMOSPHERE AT
and the song by Robert Galea (from Malta) THE CONFERENCE. BESIDES ENJOYING
were received with much applause.There were GOOD AND SOLID TEACHING ABOUT
other ministries running parallel to the youth OUR CATHOLIC FAITH, ALL THOSE WHO
ministry. Thirty families participated in the
TOOK PART HAD A GREAT OPPORTUNITY
gathering. Their children were taken care of
TO WORSHIP GOD AND TO SPEND TIME
by the child care team.
ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER IN OUR
All the three days were packed with praise SPIRITUAL JOURNEY. I WAS
and worship, inspiring sessions, testimonies, PARTICULARLY IMPRESSED BY THE
music, panel sharing, audio visual OPENNESS OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE.
presentations and workshops. The inaugural WHAT A JOY IT WAS TO SEE THEM
day helped everyone to settle down in their CARRYING THE WORD OF GOD WITH
groups. The second day was a big one set THEM AND EAGER TO READ AND
apart for reconciliation and inner healing. On
REFLECT ON THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH
the final day, everyone was commissioned
GOD. IT WAS A TIME OF THANKSGIVING,
and sent forth by Bishop Christopher Prowse
with the anointing of the Holy Spirit. The CELEBRATION AND, AT THE SAME TIME, A
serenity on every face revealed the zeal of TIME OF BEING CHALLENGED TO DECIDE
the commitment they had taken for Jesus. ONCE AGAIN TO LIVE OUR LIVES
The lit candle in everyone’s hand represented ACCORDING TO THE PRINCIPLES AND
the tongues of fire the apostles received VALUES OF JESUS CHRIST. IT IS
before they were sent forth. As the joy and IMPORTANT THAT SUCH A CONFERENCE
peace of the Holy Spirit filled the hall, our
BE REPEATED ON A REGULAR BASIS”.
hearts offered a small prayer: “Lord help us,
the missionaries of Australia to persevere.” BISHOP JOE GRECH, SANHURST
MARIA PAUL, Brisbane. DIOCESE, AUSTRALIA
Contd. on page 9
JY OCEANIA CONFERENCE Contd.
“The JY Oceania Conference was
outstanding in every respect and
detail. Jesus was proclaimed as
our Lord and King amidst a superb
array of proclamations of the very
highest standard. Connecting with
Jesus Youth was the best
beginning to 2008 and a
tantalizing taste of the year of
overflow coming down under and
culminating at WYD08. Australia,
get connected and plug into Jesus
through Jesus Youth, a mighty
force for our Lord worldwide.”
Dr. John Green, Melbourne
“The conference was a
beautiful experience and
it reminded us of all the
mighty miracles the Lord
has worked in our lives.
The testimonies of the
youth witnessing for
Jesus touched us
immensely. We both felt
a very personal calling
from our Lord to work for
His greater glory. Praise
the name of Jesus.”
Rodney & Karen
Malhiers, Sydney
“To be at the JY “The Oceania Conference “I was very happy to
Conference was was my first encounter discover that the JY
like receiving a with Jesus Youth and I Conference catered to
new charge: I was really impressed. The the needs of couples. I
found it so feeling of being ‘over found their desire to live
energising to see worked’ by the tight time Spirit-filled married lives
so many young table gave way to deep very encouraging and
people who had satisfaction after exciting, especially in
said ‘yes’ to Jesus listening to (what I feel these modern times.
and followed Him was) the best selection Thank you for all your
with joy. May the of speakers. dedication, the lively
Lord continue to I felt the presence of music and the great
bless you.” God’s Spirit. The message teachings.”
Fr. Pius Jones SM, was so well delivered.” Lucy Lilbourne,
Melbourne Sr. Mercy Akoh S.O.N Melbourne
APRIL 2008 PAGE 9
“I had a beautiful experience when after
voicing some of my concerns in our small
sharing groups, a little lady pulled me aside
and encouraged me not to give up, but to
keep praying. She said she would keep me in
prayer and that she was going to pray for my
family as she was entering the intercession
chapel. I was completely overwhelmed by her
generosity and love. This was really ‘love
beyond borders’.” Susan Puliparambil, Sydney

“For the first time, separate sessions and

workshops were held for families. Thus we as
families were able to learn and share about
our responsibilities as spouses, parents and
missionaries. We were then able to recommit
ourselves to these duties with a fresh appeal
and were truly blessed with the opportunity
to renew our wedding vows during the Mass
held by Bishop Chris Prowse.”
Jaison & Sinu Thomas, Sydney
“It was nice to see many young people
including myself enjoying the presence of
God. The conference was totally different
from any other programme I have
attended.” Viji Paul, Brisbane
“The vibrant face of the Catholic Church was
exposed through this conference. Personally
it was a time of great joy to see the lives
around me being transformed through His
love beyond all borders.”
Siju Mathew, Brisbane
“The whole programme was wonderful. Talks by the
two Bishops were inspiring. We could feel the
presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Even after
the programme we can feel this love and are able to
reach out to others with this love.”
Stephen & Leena Ratnakaran, Sydney
Gary Pinto
“The testimonies of the resource persons were so
touching and now we know that the path ahead is
not going to be smooth. We know that it takes a
lot of courage and sacrifice, yet we are glad that it
will be tough so that we can join Jesus in his
journey.” Lijesh Thomas, Adelaide
“It was a blessing for us to know Him more
through the JY Conference. It was a real moving
experience for us to be a part of this enlightening
event; every second was worth it.”
Sibu Varghese, Adelaide
“I always seem to be in the Spirit after a retreat or
conference, but this time ‘Love Beyond Borders’ has
made a difference in my life. I realise that I need to
do something more. With a strong desire in my
heart, I pray that along with my batch mates, I can
start a prayer group on the campus where I study.”
Christina Joseph, Melbourne.

“I was moved deeply on the Sunday afternoon,

when after struggling and holding onto pain over a
situation, I heard God question me: Will you let me
love you? I was brought instantly to tears
and wondrous awe! What a simple yet profound
request by my Creator. How could I say no? I
realised that I was trying to figure out the solution
to my problem, holding on so tight, that I had
forgotten to allow God into that space. From such
simple words in that moment, I entered a deep
communion which I had yet to feel at that depth.”
Linda Stocco, Melbourne
“HAVING ATTENDED THREE OF THE ‘LOVE
BEYOND BORDERS CONFERENCES’, I AM
EXCITED TO HAVE BEEN PART OF THIS
WORK OF GOD IN THE CHURCH. MY
SENSE IS THAT JESUS YOUTH IS
ENTERING A NEW PHASE OF REACHING
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES IN THE AREAS
WHERE THEY ARE PRESENT. THIS IS A
CHANCE TO IMPACT THE CULTURES OF
MANY LANDS WITH THE GOSPEL OF
JESUS CHRIST. LET THE WIND OF THE
HOLY SPIRIT CARRY JY INTO THE FUTURE.”
MARK NIMO, INTERNATIONAL
PREACHER, CHICAGO
Recommitment Day
Jesus Youth around the world will be celebrating ‘Recommitment Day’ on 11th May 2008 – the Day
REXBAND
SUMMER
of Pentecost. The need for an annual ‘Recommitment Day’ was felt last year and consequently
the global Jesus Youth family underwent a unique 100-day spiritual journey of prayer and
purification which culminated on Penetecost Day, 27th May 2007. This year too, Jesus Youth
TOUR 2008
around the world will pray the nine-day Holy Spirit Novena beginning on 2nd May 2008, Rexband is all set to rock Singapore,
preparing themselves for a complete renewal and recommitment. On Pentecost Day, Jesus Australia and New Zealand this
Youth will come together in parishes/groups to thank the Lord for the many summer. On their way to perform at
blessings received, to seek his direction for their personal role in the mission of the movement the World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney,
and to recommitment the whole movement to Jesus. (The Holy Spirit Novena and the Jesus Rexband will be ministering to young
Youth recommitment prayer can be downloaded from www.jesusyouth.org) people in Singapore, Australia and
New Zealand and leading them to a
closer relationship with Christ
Jesus Youth Recommitment Prayer through vibrant music, lively
choreography and dynamic skits.
Father God, I praise, thank and adore you for your gift of life and
love. My heart fills with gratitude as I remember my past. I
joyfully accept my present life and look to the future with hope. LIVE IN SINGAPORE
I thank you that I am your child. Thank you Father for the love
and care that I experience through the beautiful fellowship of 27 JUNE 2008
my brothers and sisters in the Jesus Youth movement. ROCK AUDITORIUM,
Suntec City Mall, Singapore
Lord Jesus, I desire to commit myself to you once again. I renounce all
the powers of darkness and accept you as the Lord and Saviour of my
life. O Risen Lord, I thank you for helping me through the Jesus Youth
LIVE IN NEW ZEALAND
movement to place myself and everything I have at your service. I surrender
my life completely to you. Jesus, you are all I need. Heal my past, bless my 29 JUNE 2008
present and take control of my future. 98 BEAUMONT STREET,
Freemans Bay, Auckland
Holy Spirit, I thank you for your guidance in every moment of my life. Thank
you, O Divine Helper, for your constant presence within me. Intensify my thirst for you. May I 30 JUNE 2008
have a deep personal relationship with you. Help me on this day of Pentecost to seek the GATEWAY CHRISTIAN CENTRE
Kingdom of God with greater eagerness and dedication. Bless me with all your gifts, fruits and
Hamilton
charisms so that I may grow steadily in holiness and effectively live out my missionary call.

Holy Trinity one God, I recommit myself to you, together with all the Jesus Youth of the world. 1 JULY 2008
Look with favour on our movement Lord. Guide us in our endeavours and protect us from all the AURORA CENTRE,
snares of the enemy. Help us to use all the resources you have blessed us with for the growth of Christchurch
Your Kingdom and the greater glory of your name. Pour out your blessings on our Jesus Youth
family and on all the people who support us in various ways. Grant that through the prayers of 3 JULY 2008
Mary, our Mother, we may always be a missionary movement at the service of the Church. Amen. WHANGAREI

LIVE IN AUSTRALIA
JOURNEYING WITH The Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI has
announced 2008 as a year specially dedicated 5 JULY 2008

ST.PAUL
to St. Paul. The Pauline Year, 29th June 2008 DALLAS BROOKS CENTRE,
to 29th June 2009, will be a time to reflect on 300 Albert St, East Melbourne
the life of St. Paul, who after his conversion
on the road to Damascus, became one of the 6 JULY 2008
Church’s foremost evangelisers. Together with ELDER HALL, NORTH TERRACE,
the Mother Church, Jesus Youth around the
world will also celebrate this commemorative
Adelaide City
year and as a first step in this direction, a set
of study materials based on the life and 9 JULY 2008
ministry of St. Paul has been prepared. These ITHACA AUDITORIUM,
materials (two study materials per month) King George Square, Brisbane
can be used for personal reflection, in prayer
groups, Bible study groups, cell groups, etc. 14 JULY 2008
The study materials can be downloaded from SUTHERLAND
the JY website www.jesusyouth.org. May this ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE,
year be a time to be inspired by the great
Sutherland, Sydney
missionary – St. Paul - and to work with
renewed strength for evangelisation.

APRIL 2008 PAGE 11

 www.wyd2008.org

WORLD YOUTH DAY 15TH – 20TH JULY 2008 SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

The largest youth event organised by
the Catholic Church, World Youth Day
brings together thousands of young
people from around the globe to
celebrate and learn about their faith.
The WYD08 theme received from Pope
Benedict XVI is: ‘You will receive power
when the Holy Spirit has come upon
you; and you will be my witnesses’
Acts 1:8.

JESUS YOUTH
INTERNATIONAL
GATHERING
21ST – 23RD JULY 2008 The Jesus Youth International Gathering in Dormagen, Germany in the
wake of WYD 2005 was a landmark experience for the movement. This
ALL SAINTS’ CATHOLIC CHURCH, time too, Jesus Youth will come together to interpret and put into action
LIVERPOOL, the message of the Holy Father at WYD 2008 in Sydney. The gathering,
held right after WYD, will also be a time of interaction and sharing
www.jesusyouth.org SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA among the Jesus Youth from over 20 different countries.

www.youtharise2008.com

YOUTH
ARISE
INTERNATIONAL
FESTIVAL
The YAI Festival is an international youth event hosted by Youth Arise
International. It promotes youth evangelization and discipleship throughout the
world by organising international youth festivals and training for youth leaders, 10TH – 13TH JULY 2008
and by providing opportunities for international mission.
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA
 A LIFE-TRANSFORMING EXPERIENCE CHALLENGING
YOUNG PEOPLE TO LISTEN TO GOD’S CALL AND SET
ASIDE ONE YEAR OF THEIR LIVES TO SHARE HIS LOVE
WITH OTHERS
Jesus Youth
International
Fulltime
Volunteers’ 25th July to 23rd August 2008

Training 2008 GARDEN OF GOSPEL PEACE, FRANCISCAN RETREAT

CENTRE, Bangkok. Contact us at jyift08@jesusyouth.org

AN IN-DEPTH TRAINING FOR ADULTS WITH A FOCUS

ON YOUTH ANIMATION AND MINISTERING TO FAMILIES.

Jesus Youth
International
Animators’
25th July to 8th August 2008,
GARDEN OF GOSPEL PEACE, FRANCISCAN RETREAT CENTRE,
Training 2008
Bangkok. Contact us at jyglobal@jesusyouth.org

Jesus Youth
International
Leaders’
Training 2008 AN INTENSIVE PROGRAMME DESIGNED FOR KEY
LEADERS TO HELP THEM RESPOND TO THEIR CALL TO
25th July to 8th August 2008 LEADERSHIP WITH MORE CLARITY AND VISION
CHOICE RETREAT CENTRE, Singapore.
Contact us at jyglobal@jesusyouth.org

APRIL 2008 PAGE 13

GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
‘Alive in Christ’ Teens Retreat, Singapore
AUSTRALIA
Monthly JY Family Outing, Sydney
The monthly JY Family Outing was organised
at the Sydney Harbour National Park on 9th
Mar. 2008. Twenty-six families participated
in this outing.
Lenten Reflection Workshop, Sydney
On 15th Mar. 2008, a one-day workshop was
organised as a follow up of the ‘Love Beyond
Borders’ conference at Mount Carmel
Retreat Centre, Varoville. Over 40
participants attended the workshop. Bishop
Christopher Prowse (Patron, Jesus Youth
Australia), Fr. Gerard Moral OCD, Fr. Aloysius
Rego OCD, Fr Sunny Peackal OCD, Fr George
Condookala, Fr Johny Arattukulam OCD and
Fr. Ken Barker (Founder of the Missionaries
of God’s Love-MGL) were the key resource
persons for the day.
Bishop Christopher Prowse at JY Prayer
Group, Melbourne
His Excellency Bishop Christopher Prowse
joined the Jesus Youth prayer group in
worship at St. Francis, City on 8th Feb. 2008.
His Excellency also shared some insights into
his personal prayer life and conveyed the
importance of a daily Jesus experience to
begin anew. Forty prayer group members
were present on the occasion.
Monthly Gathering, Melbourne
‘A Step towards Christ’ -the first monthly
gathering of the year 2008 was held on 8th
Bp. Prowse with JY Prayer Grp, Australia
‘Meet Jesus’, UAE
Mar. 2008 at St. Francis, City. There were 40
participants at the gathering. Fr. Ken Barker,
founder of MGL, helped those present
prepare for Easter.
Jesus Youth on Campus, Melbourne
For the first time in Australia, Jesus Youth
has a presence on campus at St. George’s
Institute of Professionalism, Melbourne. With
the support and permission of the Director of
the Institute, nearly 10 students have begun
gathering each week since 14th Feb. 2008.
Mayrose Pius
SINGAPORE
‘Alive in Christ’ Teens Retreat
A Teens Retreat - ‘Alive in Christ’ was held at
Mary Mount Chapel from 7th to 9th Feb. 2008.
Over 30 teenagers participated in the retreat.
The retreat was designed to welcome the
new batch of teens into the JY family. It was
also a time for the existing members in the
Teens ministry to renew their faith in the
Spirit through inspiring talks, interactive
sessions, reflection, prayer and fellowship.
Jeril Joseph
USA
National Leaders’ Gathering
Leaders from around the country gathered
with the National Team for a time of prayer,
sharing, and discernment from 8th-10th Feb.
2008 at Westwood, NJ. There were over 65
participants. Manoj Sunny was the main
National Leaders’ Gathering, USA
JY National Team, UAE
resource person. Two ad-hoc national
service teams were formed: the JY
National Youth Team and JY National
Family Team. Thomas Pulickal was selected
as the Co-ordinator for the Youth Team,
and Georgee John was chosen as the Co-
ordinator for the Family Team.
Youth Programme, Indiana
The first programme by JY Midwest
Region in an American community took
place at the St. Louis Catholic Church in
Batesville, Indiana from 11th - 12th Jan.
2008. Over 120 students participated in
the programme.
Young Adults’ Prayer Group, Chicago
About 20 young adults gathered to launch
the young adults’ prayer group in Chicago.
This prayer group will be meeting weekly.
Jesus Youth Gathering, California
Jesus Youth families from California and
Arizona gathered from 16th- 18th Feb. 2008
at the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic
Church in Santa Ana, California. It was a
grace-filled event with separate sessions
for the young participants and the adults.
Jyothini Malaickal
UAE
National Team Re-constitution
Over 250 commitment team members from
all regions of UAE gathered at the Jebel
Ali Church on 2nd Feb. 2008 for the
Youth Programme, Indiana, USA
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
‘Harvest ’08’, Dublin, Ireland
reconstitution of the UAE National Team,
under the guidance of a discernment body
including International Team
representatives and Fr. Varghese
Chempoly,Spiritual Director JY UAE. P.V.
Jojomon was elected as the new Co-
ordinator and Bejoy Cherian the Assistant
Co-ordinator. Sebastian D’Cruz and Vincent
Fernandez are the animators for the team.
The seven Regional Service Teams were
also reconstituted. The regional
coordinators are - Shinto Mathew (Ras Al
Khaimah), Jose George (Fujairah), Thomas
Jacob (Dubai), Reji Thomas (Jebel Ali),
Abraham Joseph (Abu Dhabi), Jitto
(Sharjah) and Godwin (Al Ain).
Leaders’ Orientation Programme
On 29th Feb. 2008, all the regional service
teams came together along with the
National Team at the Jebel Ali Church for a
Leaders’ Orientation Programme. The
programme helped the team members to
interact, pray and discuss future plans and
responsibilities.
Zonal Leaders’ Gathering, Jebel Ali
Following the JYUAE National Gathering,
prayer groups have been initiated in four
different zones of the Jebel Ali parish. On
7th March 2008, the first ever parish Zonal
Leaders’ Gathering - ‘Meet Jesus’ was held
with about sixty participants.
Jojomon Varkey
Zonal Service Teams’ Training, Trichy, India
Bp. Camillo Ballin and Msgr. John Kallarackal inuagurating the JY National Convention, Kuwait
IRELAND
‘Harvest ’08’, Dublin
An initial-level programme - ‘Harvest’08’ was
held on 19th Jan. 2008 at Mary Immaculate
Church, Dublin with 175 participants. The
main speakers at the event were Fr Antony
Nallukkunel (Parish Priest, Fairview, Dublin),
Rajesh Joseph and Binu K. P..
Togy Tom
INDIA
‘Galilee ’08’
‘Galilee’08’ - a growth retreat for key leaders
was arranged from 15th to 17th Feb, 2008 at
Sathyodayam Retreat Centre, Hyderabad. A
team from the Santvana Community led the
retreat.
Tamil Nadu Zonal Service Teams’ Training
Tamil Nadu Zonal Service Teams’ Training was
held from 25th to 27th Jan. 2008 at Swamy
Amalor Ashram, Trichy. About 60 participants
representing different zonal service teams
participated in the training.
Campus Retreat, Bandel
The Jesus Youth of Kolkata organized a
retreat from 10th to 12th Feb. 2008 at the
Bandel Retreat House. The retreat was
attended by 45 campus students.
U-Turn, Mangalore
Around 1000 students of nursing and other
professional courses came together from
various campuses of Mangalore for a two- day
Campus Retreat, Kolkata, India
initial-level programme - ‘U-Turn’ from 27th
- 28th Jan. 2008 at St. Agnes School.
Siljo Thomas
ITALY
Conferences based on the Sacraments
Jesus Youth in Rome have begun the year
2008 with a series of conferences based on
the sacraments. At the monthly recollection
on 27th Jan., Fr. George Kumblumootil
conducted an inspiring session to over 100
enthusiastic participants on the sacrament
of the Holy Eucharist. Similarly, on 24th Feb.,
a brilliant presentation on the salient
features of the sacrament of Baptism was
given by Fr. Lalu Olyapuram.
Grinson George
KUWAIT
Jesus Youth National Convention 2008
On 25th Feb. 2008, more than 1400
youngsters gathered at the Holy Cathedral
Church, Kuwait City for the Jesus Youth
National Conference “Here I Am”. For the
first time in Kuwait, the JY National
Conference was held in both Malayalam and
English simultaneously. About 1000 youth
participated in the Malayalam conference
inside the Church while about 400 youth
took part in the English programme in St.
Joseph’s hall. The Malayalam programme
was inaugurated by His Excellency Camillo
Ballin, Bishop of Kuwait and the English
JY National Team, Qatar
APRIL 2008 PAGE 15
 GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

Night Vigil, Bangkok, Thailand JY Families Retreat, Oman JY Family & Youth Gathering, UK

programme was inaugurated by Msgr. John present through the Sacrament of family central team for Oman with two
Kallarackal, Secretary, Vatican Embassy. Reconciliation followed by the Holy Palm families from each of these parishes was
Camp Visit by Bishop Camillo Ballin Sunday Mass. also formed.
JY Kuwait arranged a camp visit for His Nimmi Paul Holy Land Poster Exhibition
Excellency Camillo Ballin on 6th March 2008. UK As an outcome of the Middle East
His Excellency also visited a nurses hostel Conference held in Holy Land last year, a
Discipleship Training Programme
and labour camp, and was impressed by the poster exhibition based on the ‘Holy Land
Twenty-four youth from different parts of
work done by Jesus Youth. Pilgrimage’ was organised by the JY Media
UK attended the first Discipleship Training
Leaders’ Gathering Ministry from 17th to 23rd March 2008 in all
Programme organized by JYUK, held at Soli
A two-hour programme for the National the four parishes of Oman. In total, over
House Retreat Centre in Stratford-upon-
Team was held on 8th March 2008. Fr. Antony 50,000 people visited the exhibition.
Avon. The seven-day live-in programme
(Director, Manjummal Retreat Centre, Regional Service Team Reconstitution
held from 9th to 16th Feb. 2008, focused on
Kerala) led the gathering and helped the The reconstitution of the Ghala & Ruwi
helping the participants to grow in faith
leaders prepare for Holy Week. regional service teams took place under the
and become bold Christian youth of quality
guidance of Fr. Abraham Pallivathukkal on
Mahesh Peter and purpose. The resource team for the
25th Jan. 2008 and 1st Feb. 2008
training programme included Fr. Sebastian
QATAR respectively. Jaison Joseph was elected as
Arikat (Pastor, JYUK), C. C. Joseph (India),
Re-constitution of the JY National Team Co-ordinator and Jobin George as Assistant
Jose Mathew (UK), Dr. Julio (UK), Binu K. P.
About 20 Jesus Youth from various parts of Co-ordinator along with 8 other service
(Northern Ireland) and Fr. Abraham
Qatar gathered for the re-constitution of team members in Ghala. In Ruwi, Joseph V.
Vettuvelil (India).
the National Team from 17th-19th Dec. 2007 P. took charge as the Co-ordinator and Binu
JY Family & Youth Gatherings
at Our Lady of Rosary Catholic Church, Doha, Kalikadan as the Assistant Co-ordinator.
Dr. Edward Edezhath, Animator, JY
under the guidance of Manoj Sunny. A nine- Binoy Xavier
International Team was the main resource
member National Team was elected with person for a series of gatherings for the
Sinoj Cyriac as the Co-ordinator and Jinto as youth and JY families held across different
the Assistant Co-oridnator. Fr. Andrews places in UK between 29th Mar. and 10th
Francis will continue as the Pastor while Apr. 2008. The first event in the series held
Jacob Jude and Jaison N. M. were at St. Thomas & St. Edmund of Canterbury
nominated as Animators. Abbey, Erdington, attended by nearly 65
‘Rejoice 2007’ people, was the culmination of a three
A one day programme – ‘Rejoice 2007’ was months’ long perpetual adoration
held on 19th Dec. 2007 at Our Lady of Rosary programme - ‘Kairos 2008’. A follow up
Church, Doha. Over 250 youth from different programme for the participants of the
parts of the country attended the discipleship training was conducted at
programme. Stratford-upon-Avon in which 40 youth
Sanu Philip took part.
THAILAND Shelton D’Costa
Night Vigil, Bangkok OMAN
A night vigil was held on 15th Mar. 2008 at O Mother of the Risen Christ,
JY Families Retreat
the Chapel of Annunciation, Assumption
A retreat for Families was conducted from help us to savour to the full the
University, Bangkok. Over 40 members of JY
12th Jan. to 1st Feb. 2008. Over 160 JY joy of Easter, so that sustained
Thailand, mostly students and religious,
Families from Sohar, Salalah, Ghala and by the power of the Holy Spirit,
participated in the vigil as a preparation for
Ruwi participated in this retreat led by Fr. we may become capable of
Holy Week. Fr. Daniel Aigbona C.Ss.R., a
Abraham Pallivathukal, Animator, Jesus spreading it in turn wherever we
Redemptorist missionary in Thailand, was
Youth International Team. New core teams
the main resource person. He led everyone live and work. Amen
for all the four parishes and a new JY

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