6 JYVOLUNTEERS

FULLTIME
9 OUTREACH
CHILD SUPPORT 10 JYTRAININGS
INT’L
14 GLOBAL
NEWSWATCH

JESUSYOUTH
SEPTEMBER 2009

International Newsletter

Sing
a new
song
A MISSIONARY MOVEMENT AT THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE JOURNEY AND RELEVANCE OF CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC

IT WAS AN EXCEPTIONALLY COLD EVENING IN THE MAGNIFICENT CITY OF SYDNEY. Yet not even the
biting cold could dampen the spirits of the thousands who were all charged up for one of the World
Youth Day music festivals in the grounds before the Opera House. Our band was all set awaiting our
turn to go on stage. As we waited, praying, band after band came on to thunderous applause. The
music - ranging from rock and hip hop to ballads and ethnic melodies - seemed to carry the young
people as if on a giant wave. The crowds moved from frenzied celebrations to deep silences - they
journeyed back and forth between exuberant praise and quiet worship. Even as we moved on stage
and led the group through a joyous time, I was wondering about how deeply music moves this
generation - perhaps like no other generation in the history of our planet.

CONTD. ON PAGE 3

‘‘
TO BE “IN” JESUS CHRIST IS
ALREADY TO BE SEATED IN
HEAVEN. THE VERY CORE OF
CHRISTIANITY IS EXPRESSED
IN THE HEART OF JESUS; IN
CHRIST THE REVOLUTIONARY
“NEWNESS” OF THE GOSPEL
IS COMPLETELY REVEALED
AND GIVEN TO US: THE LOVE
THAT SAVES US AND EVEN
NOW MAKES US LIVE IN THE
ETERNITY OF GOD. AS THE
EVANGELIST JOHN WRITES:
“GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD
THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY SON,
THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN
HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT
HAVE ETERNAL LIFE” (3:16).
GOD’S HEART CALLS TO OUR
HEARTS, INVITING US TO
COME OUT OF OURSELVES, TO
FORSAKE OUR HUMAN
CERTAINTIES, TO TRUST IN
HIM AND, BY FOLLOWING HIS
EXAMPLE, TO MAKE
OURSELVES A GIFT OF
UNBOUNDED LOVE.
’’
HIS HOLINESS POPE BENEDICT XVI,
HOMILY - OPENING OF THE YEAR
FOR PRIESTS ON THE 150TH
ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF
SAINT JOHN MARY VIANNEY
HEART TALK
I have always dreamt of a Mission City where all the residents share and grow in the
love of Christ. So the month of August in Bangkok was like a dream come true for
me, with the three international trainings happening in one place – the “Garden of
Gospel Peace”. Seeing the animators, leaders and young missionaries, I realized how
the Holy Spirit is powerfully networking us to spread His love to every corner of the
world. This system of people is a great blessing of the Holy Spirit to our movement
which is growing like a healthy body with effective parts. I would like to share my
experience of the beauty and importance of the roles we play in Jesus Youth as a
movement.
I cherish the moments of grace when bishops and priests are blessing us or when
they are giving us the sacraments or when they motivate us with their presence. I
cherish too, the powerful intercession and guidance of our dear religious sisters in
our ministries and the presence of our ever supportive elders, who, like uncles and
aunts, take care of every JY as their very own. Then there are our dynamic and
outgoing leaders throughout the world leading the various ministries to be on fire
for the Lord. I have hundreds of testimonies of youngsters who were attracted to
Christ because they saw their JY leaders seeking first the kingdom of God. Similarly,
our young missionaries who have taken specific commitments, especially the
fulltimers, are role models in telling the youth world that “youth is the time to work
for the Lord”. It is wonderful to see how this whole system works in tandem
enabling us to execute our God given tasks. A smile from another Jesus Youth, a
word of encouragement from our animator, a blessing from our pastor before we go
onstage to share, a loving meal with a JY family, and the motivating sessions of
preachers are some of the countless blessings a Jesus Youth receives in his life. It
makes me think how much we need to thank God for keeping all this in place, just
as He made and keeps the moon and the stars in place.
To be successful in being a missionary movement at the service of the Church, it is
most important for each Jesus Youth to know and live his/her role. It takes hard work
not only to live the role but also to dedicate time to know our role, as it calls for a
process of discernment and openness to do His will during that phase of time. The six
pillars have always been like the secret recipe to help us live our roles effectively, and
proper training moulds the formation ground for our working style. I have found in
Jesus Youth that the success of our roles is that it runs on the basic rule of “love”,
where the key is to “serve better”. Also the Holy Spirit connects all these roles and
works to collectively create the missionary force that we are today. At the end of the
day it is not only what “I” did today that is important, but also what “we” did today.
God calls us to be faithful in small things and the small thing is sometimes “what
we have to do today” as animators, leaders, fulltimers, co-ordinators or any other
roles we have. Let us pray that every Jesus Youth may know, grow, and shine out
in the role he is playing in the Church every day; not because we will be
remembered tomorrow for it, but because Christ gives us the power to use our
today to change the future.
George Devassy
Jesus Youth International Co-ordinator
The Holy Father with the Jesus Youth International Newsletter
Newly weds from the US - Binu & Princy and Sony & Alphonsa - meeting the Holy Father
Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome
COVER STORY
Sing a new song
Rexband performing live in Australia
This impact is something that youth
brands like MTV have researched
deeply upon. Recent MTV studies show
that 93% of youth are passionate
about music. This affinity to music,
unlike other fads, cuts across
countries, ethnicities, cultures, genders
and age groups. In the baroque or
romantic age of western classical
music when Bach, Mozart, Beethoven
and their likes were composing some
of the most sophisticated masterpieces
of all times, appreciation of music was
limited to the elite. It was not the
inclusive, global, mass phenomenon
that it is today. Besides, music today
has journeyed beyond the confines of
music itself. It impacts lifestyles,
wardrobes, language, idioms,
behaviour, values, attitudes and even
the politics of millions of people. Music
as an industry has also never been so
huge in history - annual CD sales
touched around 3 billion in 2004 and
were worth around $ 40 million
annually. Every year when Time
magazine puts together its list of the
world’s most influential people, music
icons are invariably an important part
of the list - last year it was Alicia Keys,
this year it is A.R Rahman.
RECENT MTV STUDIES
SHOW THAT 93% OF
YOUTH ARE
PASSIONATE ABOUT
MUSIC.
In this context, it will be interesting to look at
the directions that Christian music is taking in
these times. From the unmistakable music of
the psalms and the Gregorian chants that
defined liturgical music, across the classical
compositions of the masters, the oriental music
of the Eastern Churches, the legendary Anglican
Hymns, right through the powerful sounds of
Gospel music to Contemporary Christian Music
(CCM), it has been a long journey. Apart from
liturgical or sacred music – perhaps too vast a
subject for our current reflection - we find that
popular Christian songs are most often beautiful
expressions of divine experience, reflections on
faith and scriptures, exhortations, warnings,
prophesies, prayers, worship chants, anthems or
personal meditations on God. In fact, such
spontaneous psalm-like songs were not so
popular in the medieval times when almost all
Christian music was mostly used within formal
structures of worship. It was only after the
Renaissance that subjective expressions began
to be part of the common repertoire of Christian
music. Today, if you log on to any music web
site, you will find the link Contemporary
Christian Music (CCM) along with all other
secular genres like Hip Hop, Blues, Urban,
Electronica and the likes. So here’s a short
glimpse of the three obvious aspects of CCM -
Contemporary, Christian and Music.
1. Contemporary
The dictionary defines ‘contemporary’ as
‘belonging to or occurring at the present time’.
This ‘contemporariness’ is perhaps what the
psalmist has in mind when he speaks about
singing a ‘new song’ to the Lord (Ps 3:33). Going
by this definition, the worship bands of David
which were equipped with cymbals,
tambourines, trumpets, ram’s horns and lyres
were contemporary in their time as they
followed the musical and cultural styles of those
Contd. from page 1
times. Considering the fact that there were
over 4000 professional musicians recruited
by David (Chronicles 15:16 and 23: 5)
playing such powerful instruments with
legendary Yiddish exuberance, I am sure
they would have given many of the current
high-decibel rock bands a run for their
money. Across the years, every generation
of the people of God have renewed this
‘new song’, expressing the love of God in
musical styles relevant to each generation.
In the 20th century, the growth of rock
and pop (popular) music in the secular
music world has been phenomenal.
Drawing influences from blues, gospel
and country music, they grew into an
iconic status among the youth since the
1950s and 60s - beginning in the United
States and spreading around the world.
Highly subjective and performance driven,
this music symbolized a breakaway from
the traditional styles of Western music
for a whole generation. For the young, it
was also a deviation from traditional
values. The existing formats of religious
music and prayers seemed outdated and
irrelevant to their world.
Almost around this time the Charismatic
movement began to spread across the
world and a new spontaneity and
freshness was expressed in the outpouring
of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This renewal
also reflected in the music of the times -
personal, subjective and simple songs of
worship in contemporary styles began to
be used in youth prayer groups and
communities. Music, like never before in
history, began to play an important role in
expressing the love of God and sharing the
Good News to others. Young people began
to reconnect to the spontaneity and power
of Christian music. This led to individuals
and groups presenting their experiences
through music during conferences,
gatherings and even concerts. Naturally, it
began to gain popularity among the
growing communities and was recorded
and aired publicly. Pioneering Christian
musicians like Keith Green and John
Michael Talbot were producing and
releasing a new genre of popular Christian
music with recording labels like Warner
Bros. as early as 1974. Gradually, this
would grow into the large movement
involving several communities,
denominations, ministries, bands,
recording labels and individual artistes.
SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 3
Simultaneously, the influence of Vatican
Council II led to a new openness to
different cultural nuances in the
Catholic Church - the Holy Mass and
liturgy began to be celebrated in
regional languages worldwide. This blew
in a whole range of exciting musical
influences from Asia, Africa, the Middle
East and Latin America - making
Christian music more accessible and
relevant to millions of people in several
of life. He went on to start his own
self supporting monastic community
which today draws people from
around the world. “I think of Christ as
the conductor of an orchestra,” he
says. “The faithful are the players
following His direction and the notes
on the charts. Great players are able
to take those notes and make
beautiful music. But, the whole
orchestra must also be on the same
page and play the very same notes. If
anyone decides to improvise, rather
than following along, the symphony
John Michael Card, another legendary
Christian musician known for writing
scripturally deep music including all-
time hits like ‘El-Shaddai’ has always
maintained that his music career is
secondary to his calling as a bible Amy Grant
teacher. Other contemporary Christian
musicians including Rich Mullins, who is
best known for his song ‘Awesome God’
that expressed the majesty of God in an
powerful manner, Paul Baloche, whose
hits include popular worship melodies
like ‘Open the Eyes of my Heart’ and
Paul Baloche

Ron Kenoly

Newsboys

Matt Maher

countries. Today Contemporary

Christian Music does not just mean pop
music styles - it showcases a vast array
of rich ethnic influences like Caribbean,
Mercy Me
African, Latino, Celtic and Indian
classical among others. In fact, the very
word contemporary can be a misnomer Michael W. Smith
at times as some of the traditional
music of erstwhile centuries - Celtic
music, Gregorian chants and music
from Taize - are extremely popular
among many of the new generation.
Just as the Lord has given us his love
that is “New every morning”
(Lamentations 3:23) he has also given
us a range of musical styles to express
or experience his ever different, ever
new love and faithfulness in our lives. Relient-k Rebecca St. James Darlene Zschech

2. Christian
The very motive of playing or listening
to Christian music can range from a
desire to celebrate our joy of the
presence of God (Is anyone happy? Let
him sing songs of praise. James 5:13)
to sharing scriptural messages with the
listeners. Which is why most good
Christian music is part of, arises from
or leads to a ministry that is in sync
with the greater call of God.
John Michael Talbot, the No.1 Catholic
musician (he was named the No.1
Christian artist by Billboard magazine
in 1988) in the world, who has sold over
4 million records worldwide and has
released 40 albums to date was
initiated into Christian music through a
deep experience of God that he had
while he was a successful young
secular rock musician. His visionary
experience led him to Catholicism and a
deeper interest in the Franciscan way
will become chaotic.” For him,
“music, based on faith, can take the
listener on a closer walk with God,
actually taking them into the heart
of the Lord.”
Best selling Christian artist Michael
W. Smith’s (three-time Grammy
winner who has recorded 29 No.1
hit songs to date) journey began
when he suffered a breakdown and
recommitted himself to Christ in
1979. His contemporary pop style
and heartfelt melodies are today
used in worship around the world.
He went on to found the New River
Fellowship community in Tennessee.
Darlene Zschech who authored the
acclaimed worship anthem ‘Shout to
the Lord’ are all part of larger worship
ministries or groups.
Within our Jesus Youth movement
Point of Grace
too, music has always been an
important part of the ministry. In fact,
the diverse music ministries across
Jesus Youth groups around the world
play an important part in worship,
fellowship, adoration, prayer and
sharing of the Word. Several outreach

Rich Mullins
 ministries including the Rexband, which has
an international ministry (recently featured
in the Rocking Romans Best Catholic Music in
the US) have also grown out of the music
ministries within the movement.
Today there is a profusion of Christian bands
and groups around the world. Every year, WOW
Worship (The definitive collection of
Contemporary Christian Music) introduces
dozens of new bands expressing themes as
diverse as their music styles. On the one hand
this diversity ensures that the message of God
reaches out to different target audiences
through different styles of music. On the other
hand this profusion also makes it difficult for
the listener to identify music that is born of a
genuine God experience and that is part of a
deep ministry. Moreover, with Christian music
becoming a million dollar industry,
considerations like sales, profits, rights, royalties
and stardom are also fast coming into play.
Steven Curtis David Crowder
Chapman
Jars of Clay
Keith Green
Delirious
Matt Redman
DC Talk
So is there a surefire method to identify the
authenticity of the music? Ultimately only God
can see the heart and discern the motives; but
we can always tell the tree from its fruits - so
the aspects a listener can look at besides the
beauty, power and quality of the music are:
a) The Message: the content and meaning of the
song is a clear indication of the inspiration.
b) The Life: true Christian musicians,
unlike secular musicians are called to live
what they sing and play.
c) The Ministry: often a sustained output
of powerful Christian music is only
possible if it is supported by a genuine
ministry. This community or ministry can
also give listeners an idea of the motives
of the musician or the group.
3. Music
From the reference to Jubal, the first
musician mentioned in the Bible (Gen
4:21) to the majestic song of praise by
the heavenly hosts in the book of
Revelation, music obviously comes
through as an awesome tradition of the
people of God. Whenever words or
language failed to express enough of the
majesty and glory of God, people
expressed them through music. Whenever
deeper emotions and subtle nuances
needed to be captured, worshippers
depended on music. Whenever unspoken
prayers had to be raised up to the Lord,
people broke out into songs. Music thus
transcended the limitations of language
and gave us a glimpse of the mysterious
beauty of the divine.
Third Day
Petra
The Church has considered its duty to
continue the heavenly music of the
angels here on earth. Addressing the
International Congress of Sacred Music
in 2001, Pope John Paul II pointed out,
“The hymn of praise, which resounds
eternally in the heavenly halls and
which Jesus Christ the High Priest
introduced into this land of exile, has
always been continued by the Church
in the course of so many centuries,
with constancy and faithfulness, in the
marvellous variety of its forms.” He also
explained how music speaks to the
hearts of people and helps us
communicate the message of salvation.
“Religious music,” he says “ builds
bridges between the message of
salvation and those who, while not yet
fully accepting Christ, are sensitive to
beauty, for beauty is a key to the
mystery and a call to transcendence”
(Letter to Artists, n. 16). Pope Benedict
XVI, in his reflections on Saint Romanus
the Melodist, a theologian, poet and
composer who lived in AD 490, speaks of
how creativity and innovation of each
generation goes hand in hand with the
musical traditions of the past.
“Creativity, innovation, a new song, a
new culture and the presence of the
entire cultural heritage are not mutually
exclusive but form one reality: they are
the presence of God’s beauty and the joy
of being his children.”
Yet the most important aspect about
Christian music is that it is ultimately not
about music, but about the power and
beauty of God. If music does not lead us,
exhort us, challenge us, move us or
empower us to seek Him, it is futile. In
fact it is this approach that sets it
radically apart from secular music where
music, fame, wealth and personal glory
are often paramount. In fact, surrounded
by music that sometimes even promotes
and propagates values that are starkly
Gaither Vocal Band
against the Scriptures, Christian music
today has a call to sing and play the
message of truth so that it is heard far
and wide. As listeners, we too have a
call to pray for and support true
Christian musicians so that their music,
as John Michael Talbot expressed,
“brings out the mysterious and speaks
the unspeakable, bringing to light that
which is beyond human reason.”
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.
SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 5
 A new
outlook “THE 25 DAYS WERE
ANOTHER KIND OF
LEARNING EXPERIENCE
FOR ME. IT WAS A
BLESSING TO BE PART OF

on life
THE TRAINING TEAM. THE
JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL FULLTIME VOLUNTEERS’ TRAINING LORD USED EACH TEAM
MEMBER ACCORDING TO
GARDEN OF GOSPEL PEACE, THAILAND HIS PURPOSE. BEING A
8 JULY - 1 AUGUST 2009 PART OF THIS TEAM
HELPED ME TO WIDEN MY
VISION ABOUT THE
CHURCH, TO KNOW MORE
Realizing the need to come together as youth for Christ and to love beyond ABOUT THE PRESENT
borders, twenty-nine youth from 13 different countries said ‘YES’ to the Lord’s call SITUATION AND
and came together as the 4th batch of Jesus Youth International Fulltime CHALLENGES FACED BY
Volunteers. Their 25 days of training at the Garden of Gospel Peace in Lamlukka, YOUTH, ETC. I WAS ALSO
Thailand started on 8th July 2009. PRIVILEGED TO MEET AND
CLOSELY ASSOCIATE WITH
The participants began their journey with a 3-day silent retreat. These days marked SO MANY IMPORTANT
a shift in their paradigms and were a great time of realization, reconciliation and PERSONALITIES OF THE
healing. The retreat readied the group to armour themselves in prayer for the great CHURCH AND THE
mission ahead. Under the guidance of a highly competent resource and training MOVEMENT - THEY HAVE
team including Fr. Bitaju Puthenpurackal, Fr. Sebastian Arikat, George Devassy, CHALLENGED ME.”
Alex Njavally, C. C. Joseph, Dr. Edward Edezhath, Manoj Sunny, Baby Chacko, Nevin NEVIN P.,
P., Deepa Sabu and Dony Peter among others, the participants were led through CO-ORDINATOR,
various in-depth sessions and workshops over the next few weeks. Archbishop TRAINING TEAM

The 4th batch of Jesus Youth International Fulltime Volunteers with Bishop John Panya of Ratchaburi Diocese, Thailand and Fr. Sebastian Arikat .
Thomas Menaparambil of Guwahati and Jude
Antoine from Malaysia enlightened the group
about evangelization and how to adjust to
cultural differences when sharing about faith.
Bishop George Palliparambil of Miao Diocese,
spoke about the importance of relationship
building in the kingdom of God. Sessions by
Fr. Fio Mascarenhas SJ on the history of the
Church and Bible left the group taking
personal commitments to nourish themselves
with the Word of God.
There was also much focus on the charisms
and uniqueness of the Jesus Youth
movement which helped the participants to
understand the past and present and look
forward to the future of the movement. As
part of getting deep-rooted in the six pillars
of Jesus Youth, the group had an outreach to
the parish of Holy Family in Lamlukka as well
to St. Clare’s Hospice. At St. Clare’s, the
group had a unique experience as they spent
time sharing the love of Jesus with patients
battling the last stage of AIDS. The training
days were enhanced through the learning
of effective communication and
presentation skills and the need to lead
disciplined lives. Mimes, songs, skits,
street-plays, and clever dialogues enacted
during the three-day dramatics session led
by Leo Thaddeus sharpened the creativity and
imagination of the participants.
The training ended on 1st August with Holy Mass
and a Commissioning Ceremony celebrated by
Archbishop Salvatore Penacchio, Apostolic
Nuncio of the Holy See in Bangkok. Having
gained friendships that will last them a lifetime,
the participants’ have taken off to their mission
places with numerous memorable experiences.
They are now ready to be ambassadors for our
Lord Jesus Christ, bringing light to the world
during their one year formation and in their
lifetime commitment to follow.
TEEMA THOMAS, USA

JYIFT’09 participants & training team with Archbishop Salvatore Penacchio Participants taking the pledge at the Commissioning Ceremony

“A YEAR AGO I NEVER WOULD “JYIFT’09 WAS A

HAVE IMAGINED THAT I WOULD COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING
BE PART OF JYIFT’09. I THANK THAT BROADENED MY VISION
GOD FOR SUCH A UNIQUE ABOUT EVANGELISATION
EXPERIENCE. WITH THE GRACE AND PREPARED ME FOR
OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, I WILL MISSION. THE TRAINING HAD
RETURN TO THE U.S. WITH A A SPECIAL FOCUS ON
NEW OUTLOOK ON LIFE, A PERSONALITY
WIDER KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVELOPMENT, WHICH
WORLD AROUND ME, AND A PULLED ME OUT OF MY
STRONGER FAITH. THIS COMFORT ZONES. MY MOST
TRAINING HAS INSPIRED ME TO VALUED TREASURE FROM
TAKE THE GOOD NEWS TO THAILAND IS THE LOVE OF
OTHERS, AND HAS PREPARED MY BATCH MATES BONDED
ME FOR A MORE FULFILLING TOGETHER IN THE LOVE OF
FUTURE.” CHRIST.”
ANNE MARIE BARRETT, USA JITHIN FRANCIS,
IRELAND
“JYIFT’09 WAS A MILESTONE
IN MY LIFE. THE TRAINING “THIS TRAINING WAS
HAD THE RIGHT BLEND OF REFRESHING; IT RENEWED MY
SPIRITUAL, MENTAL AND KNOWLEDGE AND HELPED ME
PHYSICAL ENRICHMENT DISCOVER ‘THE WAY TO OUR
ALONG WITH EXTRA FATHER’S HEART’. THE
CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES. TRAINING HAS ALSO
INTERACTING WITH CHALLENGED ME TO LIVE A
PARTICIPANTS FROM LIFE GUIDED BY THE HOLY
DIFFERENT COUNTRIES AND SPIRIT. THIS OPPORTUNITY
“THIS TRAINING HAS DEEPENED MY FAITH AND ALSO IMPROVED MY WAS A BEAUTIFUL GOD-
CULTURES TAUGHT ME THE
AWARENESS ABOUT THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF MISSION. THE THOUGHTS GIVEN GIFT.”
IMPORTANCE OF
AND VALUES INSTILLED IN ME WILL CERTAINLY HELP ME TO GO FORTH UDESH FERNANDO,
FELLOWSHIP, TEAM
WITH THE MISSION ENTRUSTED TO ME. I WAS ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE SRI LANKA
BUILDING AND COMMUNITY
LOVE OF CHRIST IN ITS FULLEST THROUGH MY BATCH MATES AND THE
LIFE. ” JEOF JOHN,
TEAM.” LINTO P. ANTO, QATAR
SINGAPORE

SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 7


SONRISE TOUR
Rexband kick-started its Sonrise Tour 2009 of UK and Ireland with a
concert in Leicester on 21st August 2009. With their unique style of
contemporary fusion music, the band got everyone - both young and
old – swaying to their music. Simple yet powerful audio-visual
presentations and earnest testimonies touched the hearts of those
present. As always the high point of each concert was a time of prayer
and silence, encouraging the audience to open up to the Lord. The
band also performed in London and Manchester in the UK, before
proceeding to Ireland where they had concerts in Cork, Dublin and
Castlebar. These shows proved to be a blessing in each of these
places. The tour, which came to a close on 30th August, was attended
by a few thousands across the two countries.
The JY UK National Conference ‘Jesus Youth ’09’ was held from
13th to 17th August 2009 at Cefn Lea Park in Wales. This conference, with
the theme “Dare2Go” based on Mathew 28:18-20, was attended by more
than 500 people from all over the United Kingdom. The presence of
Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara (Archbishop of Nagpur &
Ecclesiastical Advisor of Jesus Youth India), Bishop Edwin Regan (Bishop
of Wrexham) and several priests and religious was truly inspiring. The
resources for the Conference included Robert McCarty (USA), Margaret
McCarty (USA), George Devassy, Manoj Sunny and C. C. Joseph.
Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara celebrating Holy Mass with Bishop Edwin Regan
Fr. Thomas Tharayil (Pastor, JYIT) along with other concelebrants at the inaugural Mass
FORMATION FOR
PRIESTHOOD
Jesus Youth has always encouraged young people to choose
their vocation with proper discernment. Since 2004, there has
been repeated requests by several Jesus Youth if they could
serve ‘the vineyard of the Lord’ without separating their walk
with the movement. However, at that point, the movement felt
the time was not ripe for such a step. Once again over the last
few months, a few young JY leaders, discerned and decided to
respond to the Lord’s call for priesthood as well as requested to
be set apart to serve the movement. After several rounds of
discussions with Bishops, priests and leaders of the movement,
a proposal regarding this was submitted to Archbishop
Abraham Viruthakulangara (Ecclesiastical Advisor, JY India),
who gave his blessings and confirmed to take the responsibility
to oversee the formation of these candidates.
The formation for priesthood of the four confirmed JY
candidates formally began on 19th June 2009 – (Inaugural day
of the Year for Priests). These candidates were formally
inducted during Holy Mass concelebrated by nine priests
including Fr. Jose Parappillil MSFS (In-charge of first year
formation) and Fr. Thomas Tharayil (Pastor, JYIT). Fr. Tharayil
and Fr. Jose also animated a liturgy for ‘The Initiation into the
First Year of Formation’ for these candidates and presented
them with small crucifixes. These candidates, who began their
one-year live-in formation on 3rd July – the feast of the Apostle
of India, St. Thomas, will be ordained and made available for
the movement once they successfully complete their formation.
JY AT FABC MEET
Jesus Youth was invited to
participate in a
consultation on
‘Evangelization among
Indigenous/Tribal
Communities’ organized by
the Office of Evangelization
of the Federation of Asian
Bishops’ Conferences
(FABC). Nearly 60 participants who mostly work and live among
indigenous and tribal communities around Asia attended the
event, held from 20th – 24th July 2009 at the Redemptorist
Centre in Pattaya, Thailand. The purpose of the consultation
was to study spiritual and cultural resources, methods of
evangelization and emerging opportunities as well as threats in
relation to these cultures. George Devassy, Manoj Sunny and
Dony Peter represented Jesus Youth at the consultation and did
a presentation on the movement during the meet.
 JESUS YOUTH IS CELEBRATING ITS JUBILEE IN 2010 AND A KEY ITEM OF ITS JUBILEE CALENDAR
IS THIS NOBLE PROJECT OF SUPPORTING CHILD EDUCATION IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF SOUTH
ASIA. IN PROJECT 'OUTREACH – CHILD SUPPORT', JESUS YOUTH ENDEAVOURS TO HELP
WILLING SPONSORS FIND AND SUPPORT NEEDY CHILDREN.

screening of applications to
following up of beneficiaries in
their respective areas.

There will be tie-ups with well

established schools to enrol
extraordinarily talented students
of the project for better
educational exposure.

Value-based summer camps will

be organised for all beneficiary
children connected with this
project along with the Jesus Youth
children.

Education is vital to bringing about a lasting positive THIS INITIATIVE FROM

change in children’s lives, empowering and equipping
On a more
them for a bright future. It is, therefore, a basic right of
JESUS YOUTH WILL personal level....
every child. Yet for millions of children and youth in ROPE IN COMMITTED l Personally support or sponsor
developing countries, education is still way beyond INDIVIDUALS AND one or more child.
their reach. The denial of a child’s basic right to FAMILIES, NOT ONLY
education because of financial constraints is TO OFFER MONTHLY l Spread the word about this
undoubtedly a gross injustice. project and find benefactors to
FINANCIAL SUPPORT, support this initiative.
‘Outreach - Child Support’ is the positive response of BUT ALSO TO BE NEAR
a group of young people to this situation. It is the STARK REALITIES OF l If you are from South Asia, find
evolution of an idea that was first conceived in their POVERTY AND deserving beneficiaries.
hearts soon after the Gujarat earthquake in India in DEPRIVATION, AND
2001 and which continued to take shape following l If you are interested in
the Tsunami catastrophe of 2004. These youth WHENEVER POSSIBLE associating and spending some
responded to both disasters by organizing various TO VOLUNTEER AS MENTORS time i.e. nearly 4 hours each
relief and support programmes, the prime target of TO THESE CHILDREN. week, you can volunteer as a
which were the children of affected families. Project Co-ordinator.

Consequently, financial aid has been provided through
various initiatives such as families adopting children
in need to meet their educational expenses,
orphanage support, building reconstruction, as well as
medical help for those in dire circumstances. And
when many expressed their desire to continue helping
children from very poor families, especially those who
faced severe financial difficulties after the untimely
death of the sole breadwinner in an accident or from
a terminal disease, families were enlisted and
generous individuals began to sponsor a regular
monthly contribution to support one or more of these
children. Over the last year, more than 70 children
have been receiving regular support each month.
While many have been providing individual support
to social concerns in their own capacities, the time is
ripe now to widen the circle by drawing others into
the fold and to make a consolidated effort to show
social responsibility together by service to the poor.
It is imperative that an opportunity be given to all to
invest in a worthy cause that guarantees results;
that gives flight to the dreams of children for a
better tomorrow; that empowers them for a future
worthy of them.
The intended beneficiaries of this l Along with your family, you can
project are students up to Class 12 volunteer to follow up beneficiary
from different South Asian countries, families and make visits once in
who will be supported with a financial two months to know them, and to
aid of about 10 Euros/12 USD per share and work with them to build
month - in some cases it can be more a better future for their children.
as per the assessed need. The idea is
to accompany them in their journey of For more information
education with a wider intention of a regarding this venture, visit
holistic development of their identity. www.outreachchildsupport.com
or write to us at
outreach@jesusyouth.org
How will it work?
You can contribute a minimum of
10 Euros/12 USD per month.
Beneficiaries will be listed either
through direct application or through
the recommendation of a Jesus Youth
member.
Project Co-ordinators will be assigned
in different parts of South Asia to
manage this project - beginning from

SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 9

 Twenty-four Jesus Youth leaders
participated in the International
Leaders’ Training programme
organised at the Garden of Gospel
Peace, Lamlukka, Thailand. The
training programme, from 4th July
2009 to 18th July 2009, saw
participation from 11 countries -
Canada, Australia, Germany,
Thailand, India, UAE, Qatar, Oman,
Ireland, UK and Singapore.
The 15- day training was co-
ordinated by a team comprising of
Fr. Bitaju Puthenpurackal O.Ss.T.,
Sr. Thresiamma Philip FMM, Raiju
Varghese, Santhosh Mathew,
Fr. Fio Mascarenhas SJ, Jude
Antione, Dr. Edward Edezhath,
Alex Njavally, Manoj Sunny,
George Devassy, C. C. Joseph and
Dony Peter.
JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL LEADERS’ TRAINING
GARDEN OF GOSPEL PEACE, THAILAND
4 JULY - 18 JULY 2009
On the first day of the training itself, the participants
were blessed to experience a beautiful Taizé
prayer session led by Br. Ghislain of Taizé, France. In
the days that followed, the leaders were led through
sessions to help them identify their areas of weakness
and develop action plans to lessen them. The input on
‘Integrity’ helped the participants to analyse their core
self more deeply. Sessions on leadership were dealt
with in detail to give the group a good understanding of
‘Christian Leadership and Lay Mission’. Various
discussions were held with the international resource
leaders on topics related to JY leadership crises and
today’s youth and youth culture. The session on
‘Initiating youth ministry’ highlighted situations across
Trained
for
Mission
“THE PARTICIPANTS WERE ACTIVE JY
LEADERS AND THEY CAME TO JYILT’09
PREPARED TO LEARN WITH AN OPEN
MIND AND HEART. THIS TRAINING HAS
HELPED IMPART A GREATER CLARITY
ABOUT THE VISION OF THE
MOVEMENT TO THESE LEADERS.
SINCE ONLY A FEW ARE SELECTED
EACH YEAR FOR THIS TRAINING,
THESE PARTICIPANTS ARE EXPECTED
TO GO BACK TO THEIR RESPECTIVE
COUNTRIES AND IMPART WHATEVER
THEY HAVE IMBIBED TO THE REST OF
THE LEADERS. IN THE LONG RUN I
BELIEVE THIS TRAINING WILL HAVE A
GREAT IMPACT FOR THE MOVEMENT
AND I AM HAPPY TO HAVE BEEN A
PART OF THIS.”
RAIJU VARGHESE
CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM
The 2nd batch of Jesus Youth International Leaders
the globe and helped the group to “THE TRAINING GAVE ME
sketch out new strategies and FURTHER CLARITY ON
guidelines to approach youth and THE VISION OF THE
handle their problems. MOVEMENT. THE
INTERACTION WITH KEY
Besides skill development in RESOURCES IN THE
public speaking and presentation, MOVEMENT WAS
the group was also led into a INSPIRING AND VERY
deeper study of ‘Commitment of HELPFUL. I RECEIVED A
leadership’ and ‘JY lifestyle’. For PERSONAL RENEWAL
the participants, discussion on AND RE-COMMITMENT TO
topics like JY statutes, JY Cell MISSION. ALL THE
groups and small groups, JY SESSIONS WERE VERY
constants and reflection on the GOOD. THE MOST
Letter ‘Put out Into the Deep’ was MEMORABLE MOMENTS
an opportunity for each of them WERE THE
to be remoulded into true Jesus INTERACTIONS WE HAD
Youths. Testimonies of senior DURING THE SMALL
leaders encouraged the GROUP SHARINGS AND
participants to recommit their OVER MEALS.”
lives in a deeper way to Jesus. ROY DAVID, CANADA
“THE TRAINING WAS TRULY “DURING JYILT’09, THE LORD
A TIME FOR LEARNING, TOUCHED ME IN VARIOUS WAYS.
UNLEARNING AND HE STRENGTHENED MY FAITH AS
RELEARNING. I DISCOVERED IN A RETREAT. HE TAUGHT ME
WHO I REALLY AM AND HOW TO USE MY SOCIAL SKILLS AS
WHAT I HAVE BEEN DURING INDUSTRIAL TRAININGS.
ENTRUSTED WITH. THE CASE HE MADE ME REALIZE MY BAD
STUDIES AND OPEN HABITS AND OPENED A DOOR TO
SHARINGS HELPED TO GET RID OF THEM AS IN
CRITICALLY EVALUATE PSYCHIATRIC SESSIONS. HE MADE
COMMON CONCEPTS. THE ME LAUGH AS IT HAPPENS WHEN
TESTIMONIES AND WATCHING STAND-UP COMEDY.
PERSONAL INTERACTIONS MAKING A CAREER IN JESUS
WITH THE RESOURCES WAS LEADS TO DIVINE WEALTH OF JOY
ALSO VERY MOTIVATING. IN AND PEACE IN YOUR HEART.
EVERYTHING, THE JYILT’09 WAS A TRAINING FOR
UNFAILING AND PERSISTENT JUNIOR MANAGERS MAKING
LOVE OF OUR GOD WAS THEIR CAREER IN JESUS AND IT
VERY EVIDENT AND WAS CLEARLY CONDUCTED BY THE
VISIBLE.” HOLY SPIRIT.”
DEEKSHIT SEBASTIAN, INDIA VINCENZ FERNANDEZ, GERMANY

The last day mainly had reflection

modules led by Fr. Bitaju
Puthenpurackal (Pastor, Training
Team) through which the group
reflected on the decisions they had
made during the days of the
training. The closing Holy Mass and
Commissioning Ceremony had
Fr. Bitaju and Fr. Fio as the
concelebrants. Anointed, united in
Christ and strengthened by
fellowship, the 24 leaders returned
to their bases to serve the Lord
with greater zeal and zest.
DONNA PINHEIRO, India

“THE TRAINING WAS A

WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE FOR
ME. I WAS ABLE TO RE-
EVALUATE MY ROLE AS A
LEADER AND TAKE A GOOD
AND BOLD COMMITMENT FOR
MY MINISTRY. I WAS ABLE TO
KNOW MYSELF BETTER AND
TAKE A STEP TOWARDS
HAVING A PERSONAL
RELATIONSHIP OF
BROTHERHOOD WITH JESUS. I
ALSO HAD THE OPPORTUNITY
OF MEETING VIBRANT AND
TALENTED JESUS YOUTH
LEADERS FROM ALL OVER THE
WORLD. I WAS REALLY
IMPRESSED BY HOW THE
LORD WORKED AMONG ALL
THE PARTICIPANTS SO THAT IN
JUST A FEW DAYS WE BECAME
LIKE A FAMILY.”
IRENGE M.SAM, THAILAND

Commissioning Ceremony : Fr. Fio Mascarenhas, Fr. Bitaju Puthenpurackal & Fr. Johnson Manipadath praying over the participants

SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 11

 The 2nd batch of Jesus Youth International Animators’ Training was
conducted from 19th July to 1st August 2009 at the Garden of Gospel
Peace Retreat Centre, Lamlukka, Thailand. The 24 participants
including 7 priests, 2 nuns and 3 seminarians represented the
countries of India, Singapore, UK, USA, Canada, UAE, Sri Lanka,
Ireland and Oman.

The training started on the evening of 19th July with Holy Mass
celebrated by His Grace Thomas Menamparambil - Archbishop of
Guwahati, India & Chairman of the FABC Office of Evangelisation.
To celebrate the joyous occasion, the Fulltime Volunteers’ Training
participants also joined in for the inaugural Mass.

For the next two days, Fr. Sebastian Arikat, the Pastor of the training
team and Alex Njavally, led the group through a growth retreat.
Refreshed and revived, the participants then began 10 full days of
intensive training. With the right mix of input sessions, testimonials,

Accompanying
the
Youth
JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL ANIMATORS’ TRAINING
GARDEN OF GOSPEL PEACE, THAILAND
19 JULY - 1 AUGUST 2009

“JYIAT’09 WAS A FULFILLING

EXPERIENCE FOR ME. AS SOON
AS I HAD AGREED TO TAKE UP
THE CO-ORDINATORSHIP OF THE
TRAINING, I HAD BEEN PRAYING
FOR ALL THE PARTICIPANTS.
SURRENDERING TOTALLY TO
THE GRACE OF GOD AND
CLAIMING HIS PROMISES, I
PROCEEDED WITH FAITH. THE
PARTICIPANTS WERE AN
ABSOLUTELY JOYFUL GROUP
WITH A THIRST FOR GOD’S
KINGDOM. ALL OF US BECAME
LIKE ONE LARGE FAMILY. I AM
EXTREMELY THANKFUL TO THE
ALMIGHTY GOD FOR USING AN
UNWORTHY SERVANT LIKE ME.”
JOMY ABRAHAM,
CO-ORDINATOR,
TRAINING TEAM

The 2nd batch of Jesus Youth International Animators with Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil of Guwahati Archdiocese, India
 group sharing and silent reflections, the group went through “IT WAS A “THE TWO WEEKS OF
modules such as Youth Animation, Today’s Youth & Youth World, WONDERFUL INTENSE TRAINING WAS
Leadership, Integrity, Developing Leaders Around You, Ministering to EXPERIENCE. NOT JUST DEEPLY ENRICHING WITH
families, Communication Skills, Peacemaking, Knowing Jesus Youth THE CONTENT AND IN-DEPTH TRAINING,
in depth, Bible, Animating Bible Study, etc. The enthusiasm of the WISDOM SHARED SHARING, GUIDANCE AND
participants was evident from the questions raised to the resource DURING THE SUPPORT FROM THE VERY
persons during and after the sessions. Daily participation in the JY SESSIONS, BUT ALSO DEDICATED AND
prayer, Holy Mass and Eucharistic Adoration was an added blessing THE TESTIMONIES AND INSPIRING TRAINERS
for the group. WITNESSING LIVES OF WHOSE LIVES ARE IN
THE SPEAKERS AND THEMSELVES A
The presence and sharing of Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil, PARTICIPANTS TESTIMONY. IT IS AMAZING
Bishop John Bosco Panya of Ratchapuri Diocese, Thailand and Bishop INSPIRED ME TO TO WITNESS THE POWER
George Palliparambil of Miao Diocese, Arunachal Pradesh, India, DEEPEN MY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
were a great source of inspiration and blessing for the participants. RELATIONSHIP WITH CONTINUING TO WORK IN
Other members of the resource team included Dr. Edward Edezhath, GOD. I WAS ALSO THE LIVES OF THE 24
Manoj Sunny, George Devassy, Dony Peter and Baby Chacko. CHALLENGED TO RE- PARTICIPANTS. THE
LOOK AT MY MISSION RICHNESS AND WEALTH
The animators, enriched with the anointing they received though the AS A DISCIPLE” OF EACH PARTICIPANT
training, have all returned to their home countries with a pledge to RAJESH JOSEPH , ITSELF WAS A GREAT
be with and for the youth, accompanying them and being role models IRELAND SOURCE OF LEARNING
for youth, wherever they are. THAT WE ALL DREW FROM
AS WE SHARED
EXPERIENCES AND IDEAS
JYIAT’09 Cultural Night
FROM OUR RESPECTIVE
COUNTRIES.”
SINDHU MICHAEL,
CANADA

“IT WAS THE INTEGRITY

OF THE PEOPLE – LIVING
WITNESSES - THAT
CHALLENGED ME.
SESSIONS ON TODAY’S
YOUTH WORLD AND THE
PROBLEMS FACED BY
YOUNG PEOPLE WERE AN
EYE OPENER.”
BR. TERRENCE,
SINGAPORE

“THE TRAINING
CHALLENGED ME TO
COME OUT OF MY
COMFORT ZONE AND PUT
IN ME A DEEP DESIRE TO
DO MORE FOR THE
LORD.”
ADOLF GOLDWYN,
INDIA
George Devassy presenting a memento to Absp. Salvatore Penacchio JYIAT’09 participants with Archbishop Salvatore Penacchio

“I REALIZED THAT WE CAN DO MANY GOOD

WORKS FOR VARIOUS REASONS, BUT THE
FRUIT OF THOSE GOOD WORKS WILL NOT
‘LAST ’UNLESS THEY ARE DONE AS A
RESULT OF OUR PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
WITH JESUS. ALSO I BECAME AWARE THAT I
CANNOT INFLUENCE OTHERS UNLESS I
HAVE AN ENCOUNTER WITH CHRIST AND
BECOME INFLUENCED BY HIM MYSELF. THIS
IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTS
THAT I LEARNT DURING JYIAT’09. AND FOR
SURE THERE I MET CHRIST.”
Bishop George Palliparampil of Miao diocese celebrating Holy Mass for participants of JYIAT’09
FR. DAYA DHARSHANA PERERA, SRI LANKA

SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 13

GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
Pentecost Night Vigil, Italy
ITALY
n ‘JOY’09’ - Pentecost Night Vigil
As part of the Re-commitment day
celebrations, a night vigil was organized on
30th May 2009 at the Piazza Navona. The vigil
service, based on the theme ‘Come Holy
Spirit!’ was attended by about 45 people and
included the Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration,
Chaplet of Divine Mercy, group sharing,
praise & worship, and Holy Mass.
Manu John
IRELAND
n Children’s Retreat, Limerick
A two-day programme was conducted by the
Jesus Youth for children at Dooradoyle,
Limerick from 13th -14th June 2009. About 25
children attended the retreat and had a
taste of Jesus through skits, sessions,
activities and music.
Sijo Jose
CANADA
n Parish Ministry
Jesus Youth Canada has officially taken up
the responsibility for two ministries at the
St. Thomas the Apostle Syro-Malabar Parish
- Youth Development and Newcomers
Ministry.
n Youth Camp
A Youth Camp on Christian Leadership was
conducted for teens of St. Thomas the
Apostle Syro-Malabar parish from 26th to 29th
‘LichBleiben’09’ Follow-up, Germany
Youth Camp, Canada
June 2009. The camp based on the theme -
‘Stand Up! Stand Out!’, was attended by over
60 teenagers.
n JY Canada Newsletter
Under the initiative of the youth, the first
issue of the JY Canada Quarterly Newsletter
was published in July. The theme for the first
issue was ‘Being a Canadian Catholic Youth’.
Roy David
GERMANY
n ‘LichtBleiben´09’ Follow-up
The follow-up event to the‘LichtBleiben’09’
(‘Stay in the Light’) programme was led by
Pastor Meyer in St. Carolus in Boppard from
27th - 29th March 2009. During the
programme, the 28 participants from
Switzerland, Austria and Germany learnt to
be disciples and to evangelise their
respective countries.
n Month of Intercession
May 2009 was set apart by JY Germany in
order to intercede for future programmes,
especially for the prayer groups, parishes and
schools of Mainz and Cologne. Intercession
day was organized in Mainz on 10th May and in
Cologne on 16th May. The month’s highlight
was a pilgrimage made on 21st May to
Kevelaer where the ministry members spent
time in prayer and fellowship.
n Crossroads’09
Based on the verse ‘Taste and see that the
Lord is good!’ an initial retreat
National Team Reconstitution, Oman
‘Crossroads’09’ was held from 29th May to 1st
June in Antoniushaus, Grefrath-Mühlhausen.
30 people participated in this retreat guided
by Pastor Meyer, Kaplan Dumagoi and Frau
Westerhorstmann. Pastor Meyer and Fr. Ajy
Moolemparampil led the anointing prayers
on the last day.
Vimal Vattapillil
OMAN
n National Team Reconstitution
Nearly 100 leaders from five regions of
Oman gathered together on 17th April 2009
for the re-constitution of the National Team.
The re-constitution was completed in the
presence of Fr. John Fernandez (Pastor), Alex
Ponnat (Animator) and Manoj Sunny. Binoy
Xavier was re-elected as the National Co-
ordinator and Ajil James Kurian was made
the Asst. Coordinator. The day also saw the
constitution of a new National Family team
with Jojo and Sweety as the Co-ordinators
and a new National Youth team with Anish T.
James as the Co-ordinator.
n ‘Epiphany 2009’
A special vacation programme, ‘Epiphany
2009’ was organized for the teens studying
between Classes 8 and 11 from 6th - 11th July
2009 at Athmadarshan, Aluva, Kerala. A total
of 23 teens from three parishes in Oman
participated in this programme organized by
the Teens Ministry of Oman with the help of
the National Teens team of India. Some of
National Conference, UK
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
‘Epiphany 2009’, Oman
the programme highlights included an
outreach to an Old Age home and putting up
a stage programme at Nirmala H. Sec.
School, Aluva. A session was also arranged
for the parents of the participants on how
they could help their children grow in faith.
n ‘Expecting Families’ Formation
Around 15 expecting families attended a
formation programme based on the theme
‘Spiritual growth during pregnancy’ on 15th
Apr. 2009 at the Parish Hall, Ghala. Manoj
Sunny was the main resource person.
Binoy Xavier
NEW ZEALAND
n Recommitment Day celebrations
To celebrate the Recommitment Day in New
Zealand, ministry members came together
on 31st May 2009 at Auckland and
Christchurch.
n One-day Initiation Programme
About 40 people attended an Initiation
programme held in Hastings on 20th June 2009.
The programme which started off with Holy
Mass celebrated by Fr. Joseph Akkara CMI
included inspiring music, sessions, testimonies,
a time of Confession and Adoration.
Soji Joseph
KUWAIT
n Recommitment Day celebrations
Jesus Youth Kuwait celebrated the
Recommitment Day on 30th May 2009 with a
Prayer Group Leaders’ Training, Singapore
gathering at Holy Family Cathedral Church,
Kuwait City. The day which comprised of
Praise and Worship, a session based on the
Holy Spirit, Holy Mass celebrated by Fr.
Lorance and Recommitment Day liturgy, saw
around 100 Jesus Youth recommit their lives
to working for God’s kingdom.
n National Outreach Day
Celebrating 12th June 2009 as National
Outreach day, about 60 Jesus Youth
participated in a special outreach to 30
Camps, including 10 ladies’ hostels and 7
new camps.
n Pauline Year Bible Quiz
As a part of the Pauline Year celebrations, JY
Kuwait conducted a Pauline Year Bible quiz.
Mano Mathew
UK
n Youth Retreat
About 20 people attended an initial level
youth retreat organised by the Jesus Youth
of UK from 13th - 16th April 2009 at the
Linnet Clough Scout camp, Marple Bridge,
Cheshire. The resource persons included
George Devassy, Jose Mathew and Fr.
Sebastian Arikat.
n JY UK National Conference
‘Jesus Youth’09’ was held from
13th – 17th August 2009 at Cefn Lea Park in
Wales. This conference, with the theme
‘Dare2Go’ based on Mathew 28:18-20, was
attended by more than 500 people from all
Youth Leaders’ Training, UK
over the United Kingdom. The presence of Most
Rev. Abraham Viruthakulangara (Archbishop
of Nagpur & Ecclesiastical Advisor of JY India)
and Most Rev. Edwin Regan (Bishop of
Wrexham) was truly inspiring. The resource
team included Robert & Margaret McCarty,
George Devassy, Manoj Sunny and C. C. Joseph.
n Youth Leaders’ Training
From 1st to 4th May 2009, 30 youth ministry
leaders attended a training led by Manoj
Sunny and George Devassy at the Savio
House, Macclesfield. The training helped give
clarity on various aspects of ministry building
and youth formation.
Sibi Joseph
SINGAPORE
n Prayer Group Leaders’ Training
To ensure the growth of upcoming leaders
and to equip them to lead prayer groups and
their ministries, JY Singapore organized a
Leaders’ Training programme on 17th May
2009 at Choice Retreat Centre. Fifty leaders
from 18 prayer groups attended this training.
n Recommitment Day celebrations
After a month of spiritual preparation that
included daily reflections, intercessory
prayers and novena to the Holy Spirit, about
150 Jesus Youth gathered together at
Marymount Chapel on the evening of 31st May
to recommit themselves to Jesus. The
spiritually enriching ceremony had Fr.
William Goh, Spiritual Director joining in and
celebrating Holy Mass for the group.
Annual Evaluation Meeting, India
SEPTEMBER 2009 PAGE 15
 GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

Discipleship Training, Sri Lanka ‘Communion’ - North East Region, India

n Jesus Net Anniversary Celebration over 30 campus leaders across 9 states, Jesus Youth in Sacred Heart Church, Morewell.
On 6th Jun. 2009, about 120 Jesus Youth ‘Campus Vibes’ helped in broadening the The programme, with numerous interactive
gathered together after Mass at Risen Christ vision of these ministry leaders. workshops and sessions by Fr. Jeff and Rajesh
Church, Toa Payoh for a three-hour Siljo Thomas Thalapallil, proved very helpful in taking these
anniversary celebration of Jesus Net, the youngsters one step closer to knowing Christ
SRI LANKA
monthly prayer gathering of JY Singapore. and His Church.
n Discipleship Training Programme
Shimy Stephen Mayrose Pius
A Discipleship Training Programme was held
INDIA from 13th to 19th April 2009 at St. Sebastian’s USA
n ‘Communion’, North East Region College, Moratuwa. Nearly 45 students from n ‘Large Group’ Gathering, Northeast Region
‘Communion’ for the North East region was 8 different colleges attended the training. The Northeast Region hosted the first ever ‘Large
organised at Dimapur in Nagaland from 10th The resource persons included Dony Peter Group’ gathering on 15th Aug. 2009. This group
to 12th June 2009. The programme was and Vijay Sebastian from India. Rev. Fr. consisted of the various regional small groups
attended by over 70 priests and religious Marcus Ferdinandez (Episcopal Vicar for the that had been meeting weekly, including both
from various dioceses across North East India. Eastern Region of the Archdiocese of family and youth members. Also, present were
Most Rev. Dominic Lumen, Archbishop of Colombo and for Apostolates) met and Fr. Vinod Madathiparambil (Pastor, JY National
Imphal, Most Rev. Jose Mukkala, Bishop of addressed the participants on the final day. Team), Jose Jacob (National Team member) and
Kohima and Rev. Fr. James Poonthuruthil SDB, Stenson Johny Dr. Manoj Abraham and family, to introduce and
the Salesian Provincial, were present for the AUSTRALIA share their knowledge and experiences.
inaugural ceremony. n Discipleship Gathering, Southeast Region
n One- day Programme, Morewell
n 18th Batch Fulltime Volunteers’ Training
Nearly 25 young Catholics from Morewell From 24th – 26th July, the South East Region held a
The JY Full time volunteers’ training (English) Discipleship Gathering in Orlando, Florida for the
and the surrounding parishes participated in
began on 21st May 2009 at Emmaus, Kerala regional service team and other participants
a one-day programme organized by the
with 28 participants. The commitment from various areas in the region. The gathering
ceremony on 27th June was presided over by focused on the need for prayer in the life of a
Most Rev. Joseph Arumachadath, Bishop of Jesus Youth.
Badravathi Diocese. The training in Hindi was Sunil Nadarajan
held from 23rd June - 26th July at Red World Youth Day
Building, Nagpur and was attended by 19
youth including 3 seminarians. The 2011 logo unveiled
participants of both these trainings have
been placed in various parts of India. The Archdiocese
n Annual Evaluation Meeting, Nagpur of Madrid
The annual evaluation meeting for Jesus presented the
Youth India took place from 15th to 17th May official logo for
2009 at the Bishop’s House, Nagpur. Over the World Youth
100 leaders from all over the country Day 2011 on 29th
including National team members, Regional July 2009. The
co-ordinators and Service team members logo was
were present for the gathering that primarily designed by Jose
aimed at evaluating the work of the
O Immaculate Mother, ever listening
Gil-Nogues. The and ever caring, hear our prayer. You
movement in the country over the past year image reflects
as well as planning for the year ahead. help the helpless, strengthen the
the youth of the
n Campus Vibes ’09, Kerala world beneath the cross, united to
weak and comfort the sorrowful.
The National Campus Leaders’ training was form the crown of Our Lady, patron of We entrust to your gentle care and
held at Athmadarshan, Aluva, from 30th May Madrid. The upcoming World Youth Day intercession those who are sick or
to 7th June 2009. With the participation of is scheduled from 16th - 21st Aug. 2011. lonely or hurting.

Printed and Published by Mr. Manoj Sunny on behalf of Jesus Youth International Office, 6F Thadikaran Centre, Palarivattom P.O., Cochin-682 025, Kerala, INDIA, Ph: +91 484-4054870, 4054371, Fax: +91-484-2346084, Email: jyglobal@jesusyouth.org
nwww.jesusyouth.org nEditor-in-charge: Shelton Pinheiro nEditorial Team: Beena Manoj, Anu Pinheiro, Jubie John & Liss Thomas nCover Design: Jaison Antony nLayout: Sanil C.A. nPrinted by SR Graphics, Kottayam, Ph:+91 481-2301142