8 JYGATHERING

INTERNATIONAL
12 JYLEADERS’
INTERNATIONAL
16 JYANIMATORS’
INTERNATIONAL
18 REXBAND
23 GLOBAL
NEWSWATCH
TRAINING TRAINING

JESUSYOUTH
SEPTEMBER 2008

International Newsletter

Stopover
in Sydney
A MISSIONARY MOVEMENT AT THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH

REFLECTIONS ON WYD ’08 FROM A YOUTH ANIMATOR’S PERSPECTIVE

THE EVENING STOLE IN QUIETLY OVER BARANGAROO BAY, AS IF RELUCTANT TO DISTURB THE
THOUSANDS OF WYD PILGRIMS OVERWHELMED AT THE SIGHT OF A WOUNDED, TORTURED
JESUS WALKING AMONG THEM, DRAGGING A MAKESHIFT CROSS. A chilly wind swept in from
across the waters. The rays of the evening sun turned the white bandanas of the pilgrims into
gold. Heads bowed, they sat, as Jesus, enacted in the Stations of the Cross by a young Alfio
Stuto, was beaten, whipped and crowned with thorns. A hushed silence descended over the
young people from over 170 countries as three crosses rose up above the earth, painting a
poignant sign of love amidst the indifferent skyscrapers that dot the Sydney skyline.

CONTD. ON PAGE 3
 HEART TALK
With the World Youth Day, the Jesus Youth International Gathering, formation of the
new International Team, and three training programmes for Fulltime Volunteers,
Leaders and Animators, the last few months have been a time of hectic activity,
salient change and great blessing for the movement.
I am so proud of the new International Team comprising of 12 elected members, 5 ex-
officio members (the co-ordinators of Europe, India, Middle East, South East Asia and
the former International Co-ordinator), 3 animators and a Pastor. We have the right
blend of experienced and young leaders in the team, including 4 women and two
non–Indians.
We have George Devassy, a very young and committed man as the new co-ordinator of
Jesus Youth. George, who has a Master’s degree in Business Administration, was
working with an MNC for the last few years, and has recently registered for his
doctoral studies. His parents have been actively involved in the CCR for years, and
their home has housed several batches of JY fulltime volunteers. His brother, a former
fulltime volunteer, is completing his seminary formation, and his sister is an active
Jesus Youth. From the moment I first met George in Thailand a few years back in his
residence named ‘Jesus Youth House’, I was struck by his faithfulness to his call and
his commitment, and he soon became a dear brother to me. Looking at him today, I
believe that the scripture on being “faithful in little things” has come true...
Undoubtedly, God has raised him to lead the movement. The new Asst. Co-ordinator

‘‘
DEAR FRIENDS, IN
YOUR HOMES, SCHOOLS AND
UNIVERSITIES, IN YOUR
PLACES OF WORK AND
RECREATION, REMEMBER
THAT YOU ARE A NEW
CREATION! AS CHRISTIANS
YOU STAND IN THIS WORLD
KNOWING THAT GOD HAS A
HUMAN FACE - JESUS
CHRIST - THE “WAY” WHO
SATISFIES ALL HUMAN
YEARNING, AND THE “LIFE”
TO WHICH WE ARE CALLED
TO BEAR WITNESS, WALKING
ALWAYS IN HIS LIGHT.
Navin Thomas is another very committed leader, who after resigning his job had been
working as a part of the International office, heading different projects like the WYD
and Formation programmes, particularly that of the Fulltime Volunteers. I am sure that
this duo will do us proud in the coming years.
As I retrace my steps while writing this my last ‘Heart talk,’ I am simply amazed at
the way the Spirit has been at work, building up the movement, particularly over the
past decade. How things have changed from the time when I had to sell my computer
to make one of my first international trips, and the many days when I survived on
bread alone, especially while travelling in Europe. What a transformation from the time
when the first International team was formed and Jesus Youth had a presence in just a
couple of countries, to the present, when the number has grown to 22 countries...
I want to take this opportunity to thank the International team members, the country
co-ordinators and many other leaders who worked tirelessly to build the movement. I
specially thank two persons from outside the Jesus Youth, who have played a very
important role in making this movement an International one – Msgr. Antony
Kollamparampil from Rome and Henry Cappello from USA. Msgr. Antony was pivotal in
guiding and helping us to build a relationship with the hierarchy of the Church.
Henry, being the President of Youth Arise International, created a platform for us to
know and work with other international movements. I especially thank all my brothers

’’
ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS
BENEDICT XVI AT THE
WELCOMING CELEBRATION
BY THE YOUNG PEOPLE,
Barangaroo, Sydney Harbour,
17 July 2008
and sisters for their support and love over the last 6 years. During this period I have
stayed in many of your families for more days than I have spent with my own family.
You received me as your elder brother with love – a gift that I shall cherish always.
Above all, I bow my head to the Spirit, for the numerous times I have witnessed His
power in action (particularly when we had no resources, no money, no contacts),
creating from nothing! He is the Lord of impossible things. And I look forward to
seeing the same action of the Spirit in the movement in the years to come...
Manoj Sunny

As I write my first words after our receiving this responsibility of serving the movement, I would like to start by
requesting your continual intercession for me and for the new team. I pray that the Holy Spirit who has been
guiding this movement may bless us with all the gifts and wisdom we need to steer the mission.
Looking back at how the Almighty God has blessed us over the years, I praise Him for being with us and thank
Mother Mary for her powerful intercession. And the fact that the Mighty One is with us reminds me of the words
of Pope John Paul II, “Do not be afraid.”
So let us give Jesus with all that we have. I would go to the extent of hoping that as we spread like fire to more
and more areas of the world, our missionary zeal will form this movement to be a “Factory of Saints” in this
modern world. We pray together as a team that the Mercy of our Lord may always be with us to help us do our
best to serve this holy mission for the glory of God.

George Devassy
Jesus Youth International Co-ordinator
COVER STORY
Stopover in Sydney
Perhaps these young people themselves, like
the crosses raised high, I mused, are a sign
unto the world. Their celebrations, laughter,
YET THE PILGRIMS contemplation, passion for the Church, love for
KNEW THAT HE the Pope and desire to set themselves aside for
CARRIED A God are indeed radical challenges to our
ruthlessly self-centred world. For the 500 Jesus
MESSAGE FOR Youth from around the world including youth
THEIR LIVES; AND animators like me, this gathering was truly an
THAT THE MESSAGE affirmation of our call to reach out to youth, a
joyous sign that the Church is young and
OF THE HOLY throbbing, a challenge to be different amidst
FATHER, UNLIKE THE this world and a reminder that the Church is
SUPERFICIAL beautiful in its amazing diversity.
EXHORTATIONS OF The following vignettes that I share with you
THE WORLD WOULD are neither a comprehensive account nor an
MAKE A REAL organized report of the event. They are at best,
DIFFERENCE TO a few scattered reflections on the largest
youth gathering on the planet from the
THEIR LIVES. perspective of a Jesus Youth.
Contd. from page 1
A Youth Icon with a
Difference
“ Pope gets rock star treatment!”
screamed The Daily Telegraph as it
described the millions of cheering young
people who turned up to welcome the Holy
Father. The young people knew that the
Holy Father desired to be with them so
much that he travelled over nineteen hours
- the longest journey in his life - to reach
Australia. The world may not understand
why millions of young people go gaga over
an 81-year old man in a pristine white
cassock and red suede shoes.
Yet the pilgrims knew that he carried a
message for their lives; and that the
message of the Holy Father, unlike the
superficial exhortations of the world
would make a real difference to their
lives. “Life is not just a succession of
events or experiences ...” he declared.
“It is a search for the true, the good and
the beautiful. It is to this end that we
make our choices; it is for this that we
exercise our freedom; it is in this – in
truth, in goodness, and in beauty – that
we find happiness and joy”.
In Sydney Harbour, in Barangaroo, in
Randwick; the pilgrims followed him
everywhere. They carried his pictures,
wore T-shirts with images of the Pope and
listened with all their heart as he spoke
to him. This excitement opens our eyes to
the beauty of the Church as a family - the
Pope uniting us as Children of God. This
also tears at the root of several
assumptions about young people - that
they are too enamoured by glamour, that
they are averse to religion, that they do
not care for values or sacrifice and that
they lack depth in life. If they seem so, it
could only be because our witnessing
needs the power of the Holy Spirit.
One Church. A Million
Expressions
Having born, grown, lived and prayed in
our respective cultural environments,
each one of us have come to express our
faith in ways that we feel are most
natural. Which is perhaps why we need a
platform like the WYD celebrations to
open our eyes to the diverse expressions
of faith through which the Holy Spirit
enriches the Universal Church.
SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 3
The pilgrims came to Australia in all
sizes and shapes, speaking different
kinds of languages, wearing different
types of clothes and even spouting
different kinds of headgear. They came
from the sweltering tropics and the
freezing poles. Yet beyond the external
differences, there is also a diversity in
approach, lifestyle and even in
spirituality. Here we find groups that
prefer contemplative prayer and others
who like the exuberant praise sessions;
some who celebrate Holy Mass in the
Latin rite and others who celebrate
Holy Mass in the oriental rites. The
WYD thus becomes a place where we
learn to acknowledge and respect the
diversity of our brothers and sisters
from around the world. It also becomes
a place where the ocean of pilgrims
discover a deeper unity that transcends
differences - the unity that comes from
acknowledging one another as
members of the body of Christ.

This was evident even during the Way of the
Cross,as I remember reciting the Holy Rosary
IT WAS A TIME along with a whole bunch of people that I
TO MARVEL AT didn’t know, coming from different
THE BEAUTY OF countries. It was amazing to see different
people with various personalities from diverse
THE HOLY SPIRIT cultures glorifying God together thereby
AT WORK - TO reaffirming their Catholic identity.
EXPERIENCE For us who are part of the Jesus Youth
HOW EACH movement, it was also edifying to experience
MOVEMENT the charisms and ministries of many other
RADIATES A movements within the Church. It was a time to
marvel at the beauty of the Holy Spirit at work
DIFFERENT - to experience how each movement radiates a
EXPRESSION OF different expression of faith. And how,
FAITH.
together, all these movements and individuals
build the body of Jesus.
A Deeper Journey
Very often, when young people come together,
even for the WYD, many are sceptical. Do these
people actually come seeking deeper answers?
Or is the WYD just another hang out ?
A recent survey conducted by the Australian
Catholic University and Monash University
studied the responses of 12,275 registered
English speaking WYD ’08 participants from 164
countries. Interestingly, the pilgrims were quite
clear on why they were present there.

“THE MOST MEMORABLE “I DISCOVERED THE “I ENJOYED THE “ONE OF THE

EXPERIENCE DURING WYD BEAUTY OF THE MORNING TALKS AT THINGS THAT
WAS WHEN I WAS STOPPED CATHOLIC CHURCH THE CATECHESIS BY TOUCHED ME MOST
AT ONE OF THE BUSY DURING WYD. OUR DIFFERENT BISHOPS, DURING WYD, WAS
STREETS OF SYDNEY BY TWO SOCIETY HAS AND THE DOWN TO WITNESSING AND
TEENAGE GIRLS FROM USA GROWN TO VIEW EARTH APPROACH EXPERIENCING THE
WHO TOLD ME THEIR FAITH THE CHURCH AS DISPLAYED DURING LOVE AND UNITY
STORIES – VERY MOVING DEAD AND THE TEACHINGS WAS THAT WAS SHARED
ONES INDEED- AND URGED BORING. COMMENDABLE. AMONG YOUTH
ME TO SHARE MY FAITH HOWEVER, WYD BEING ABLE TO SEE WHO CAME FROM
STORY WITH OTHER YOUNG PROCLAIMED THIS THE HOLY FATHER AT DIFFERENT
PEOPLE. ‘ONLY JESUS CAN TO BE FALSE. A CLOSE DISTANCE IS COUNTRIES. IT
HEAL THE BROKEN WORLD FURTHER, WYD SOMETHING THAT I MADE ME REALIZE
WE LIVE IN,’ THEY TOLD ME. MADE ME REALIZE WILL CHERISH FOR A THAT THIS LOVE
THESE TWO GIRLS WERE HOW LITTLE I LONG TIME. I HOPE AND UNITY TRULY
TELLING THEIR FAITH STORY KNOW ABOUT MY AND PRAY THAT THE HAS THE POWER TO
TO HUNDREDS OF OTHER FAITH. NOW I FEEL FIRE OF THE WYD CHANGE THE FACE
YOUNG PEOPLE ON A ONE TO A STRONG URGE TO WILL CONTINUE TO OF TOMORROW’S
ONE BASIS DURING THE STUDY AND LIVE BURN IN US.” WORLD.”
WYD. THEY WERE TRULY AN MY FAITH.” SAJEN RODNEY MALHIERS, ANIKA MANGALY,
INSPIRATION.” ALEXANDER, USA AUSTRALIA CANADA
JOSE MATHEW, UK
“It revealed what pilgrims most wanted
at WYD ’08 was a spiritual experience
and in that context, to see and listen to
the Holy Father,” said researcher Michael
Mason.

This is reflected in the ardent response

of pilgrims to the daily Catechesis which
is the most important part of any WYD
pilgrimage. The pilgrims faithfully woke
up early to head for one of the 235
Catechesis centres in and around Sydney
and participated actively in the
workshops, music, teachings, confession
and the Holy Eucharist. The catecheses,
led by a Cardinal or Bishop, was centred
on the WYD theme: “You will receive
power when the Holy Spirit has come
upon you; and you will be my
witnesses”(Acts 1:8). The catecheses
were animated by different groups and
movements, bringing in a unique flavour
to each of them. The Jesus Youth also
had the privilege of animating catechesis

VERY OFTEN, WHEN

YOUNG PEOPLE COME
TOGETHER, EVEN FOR THE
WYD, MANY ARE
SCEPTICAL. DO THESE
PEOPLE ACTUALLY COME
SEEKING DEEPER
ANSWERS? OR IS THE
WYD JUST ANOTHER
HANG OUT ?

“WORLD YOUTH DAY “WHAT TOUCHED ME “WYD WAS AN

2008 WAS THE MOST IS THAT EVEN IMPORTANT PART OF
WONDERFUL THOUGH IN TODAY’S MY FAITH JOURNEY.
DISPLAY OF UNITY IN WORLD WE SEE IT WAS GREAT TO BE
THE CHURCH. AND PEOPLE LIVING FOR PART OF THIS
JUST BEING THERE THEMSELVES AND GATHERING THAT
AMONG THE YOUNG HAVING NO TIME FOR BROUGHT
PEOPLE OF THE GOD, I COULD TOGETHER YOUNG
WORLD (THE WITNESS AND MEET PEOPLE FROM ALL
FUTURE OF THE SO MANY YOUNG OVER THE WORLD
CHURCH) WAS PEOPLE WHO RELATE TO CELEBRATE OUR
INSPIRING. DURING TO JESUS AND WHO COMMON FAITH. IT
THE NIGHT VIGIL, CONSIDER HIM AS GAVE ME A
JOINING OVER 500 THE CENTRE OF THEIR RENEWED HOPE
THOUSAND YOUNG LIVES. DESPITE OUR AND PASSION FOR
PEOPLE WITH LIT DIFFERENT THE CATHOLIC
CANDLES, SINGING BACKGROUNDS AND CHURCH. I WILL
AND PRAYING NATIONALITIES, WE NEVER FORGET THE
TOGETHER WITH THE HAD SO MUCH IN FRIENDS I MADE
POPE WILL ALWAYS COMMON AND SO FROM ALL OVER THE
REMAIN AN MUCH TO SHARE. IT WORLD AND HOPE
UNFORGETTABLE WAS DEFINITELY TO SEE THEM IN
MOMENT.” THOMAS AMAZING.” TITTY 2011.” VENETIA
JACOB, UAE THOMAS, INDIA PEREIRA, UAE

SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 5

IN A LARGER SENSE, for a group of around 900 pilgrims from
across the world.
to the lives of others. Here in Sydney
they were infected by the Spirit of
FOR EACH ONE OF US, Pilgrimage as they walked on for miles,
THE SPIRIT OF The depth and the power of traditional shared their food, rested on makeshift
PILGRIMAGE WAS AN Catholic prayers like the Stations of the
Cross were manifested more than ever in
bunkers and slept outside in the cold. In a
larger sense, for each one of us, the Spirit
ACKNOWLEDGMENT Sydney, where a very powerful theatrical of Pilgrimage was an acknowledgment to
TO OURSELVES THAT enactment of the passion of Jesus made a ourselves that our life itself is a
OUR LIFE ITSELF IS A profound impression on the young people.
Where else can one imagine more than a
pilgrimage and that we will carry nothing
else other than our love to eternity.
PILGRIMAGE AND THAT million young people remaining
WE WILL CARRY contemplative and hushed, tears streaming
Faith is Cool
NOTHING ELSE OTHER down some of their faces?
A monk who makes hip hop music. An
THAN OUR LOVE TO The young people turned the night vigil at Australian Idol winner who composes a
ETERNITY. Barangaroo into a celebration like never theme song for a Catholic event. A line of
before. 250,000 of them sang, danced, designer lifestyle accessories with
prayed and sat up through the night, sharing Catholic messages. Catholic bands that
experiences and making new friends. In the play music that ranges from hard rock to
morning, they were all tired and cold pop, fusion, trance and blues. Catholic
“World Youth Days
physically, but united and live in faith. music cafes. Concerts that rock the night.
have come to
Contemporary dance bands. Christian
stay.” This was
Perhaps the response of young pilgrims to tattoo artists. All these experiences at
one of the
our Catholic roots and prayer should be an the WYD reveal an interesting insight:
remarks made by
eye opener to all of us. May it remind us to there is no better way to reach young
Cardinal George
avoid stereotyping young people as people than through their lifestyles.
Pell of Sydney at
the conclusion of superficial and help us expose youth to
deeper spiritual journeys that will Finally, the Pope’s message, “The Lord is
WYD ’08. The
transform their lives. asking you to be prophets of this new age,
whole Church with
messengers of his love, drawing people to
its head – the
the Father and building a future of hope
Pope - was The Spirit of Pilgrimage for all humanity,” speaks to each one of
present in Sydney;
Somehow, the media tend to portray our us, offering us a larger perspective of our
not only youth but
young people as a pleasure seeking, brand ministries in different movements and
middle aged and old people, children,
conscious, pampered and ruthlessly different organizations within the Church.
religious, priests and Bishops. I was
success-oriented generation. Yet the WYD
blessed to be part of this wonderful
proves that young people find joy in DR. KOCHURANI JOSEPH
event. A Jesus Youth animator and Professor
making sacrifices, can brush aside the
of Economics in Bharat Matha
everyday comforts if they find something
As someone correctly remarked, it College, Cochin, she is a former
more precious and will gladly give up their Vice-President of the Catholic
was a ‘whole package’. A package of
time and their energy to make a difference Council of India.
spirituality, culture, catechesis,
entertainment, travelling, eating, and
above all fellowship. There was time
for everything. Especially remarkable
was the Stations of the Cross, the “IT WAS A WONDERFUL “THE WYD THEME “IT WAS INDEED AN
Night Vigil and the Concluding Mass. EXPERIENCE SO SEE WAS VERY GOOD, HONOUR TO
Thousands of young people who are YOUNG PEOPLE FROM BECAUSE IT WAS EXPERIENCE JESUS
used to being boisterous, could keep DIFFERENT NATIONS ALL ABOUT NOT JUST IN THE
pin drop silence during the Night GATHERED TOGETHER TO POWER, MIDST OF 2 OR 3
Vigil and during the Holy Mass as the PRAISE AND WORSHIP THE INSPIRATION AND PEOPLE BUT
Holy Father spoke. I was also ETERNAL FATHER. IT AWAKENING - 22,00,000 FELLOW
overwhelmed by the hospitality of the INVOKED IN ME A NEW TYPICALLY CHRISTIAN YOUTH”
Australians and the meticulous LOVE AND DESIRE FOR THE YOUTHFUL MARY STANISLAWS,
arrangments. CATHOLIC CHURCH.” ELIZA THOUGHTS.” ANU, SINGAPORE
ZACHARIAS. IRELAND SWITZERLAND
The Jesus Youth delegation also
contributed much, as it was vibrant with
its animation of catecheses and Masses, “WYD FOR ME, WAS STANDING ON TOP OF A RUBBISH BIN OVERLOOKING THE CROWD AT
Rexband concerts, etc. I was very happy BARANGAROO, WATCHING AS THOUSANDS SUDDENLY RAN TOWARDS THE ROAD SET
to see our Indian young people do great ASIDE FOR THE POPE TO PASS IN HIS POPEMOBILE, WATCHING AS THEY SCRAMBLED ON
things.” ONE ANOTHER’S SHOULDERS, WANTING TO CATCH THE SLIGHTEST OF GLIMPSES, WHILST I
THOUGHT TO MYSELF, “AND I THOUGHT THEY SAID THAT RELIGION WAS DEAD.” IT WAS
MOST REV. ABRAHAM
SEEING OUR HOLY FATHER KISS THE FOREHEADS OF SEVERAL BABIES, A SIGHT WHICH
VIRUTHAKULANGARA,
UNITED OUR RICH HISTORICAL TRADITIONS WITH THE INNOCENCE OF OUR FUTURE. WYD
Archbishop of Nagpur, India ASSURED ME THAT AS LONG AS THE HUMAN SPIRIT BELIEVED IN THE PROMISES OF
PRAYER, THERE WAS STILL HOPE.” MARYANNE MUKKATTU, AUSTRALIA
 Bishop John Mathias

JESUS YOUTH @ WYD

JESUS YOUTH @ WYD

CATECHESIS
Bishop Tria Tirona Bishop William Edward Lori
INDIAN
This World Youth Day, Jesus Youth movement was entrusted with
PRAYER
the privilege of animating over 900 pilgrims from over 25
countries who gathered for catechesis in the Parish of Our Lady of
Mount Carmel, Mt. Pritchard. For the movement, this was the second opportunity to animate Perhaps for the first time ever, the
catechesis after the WYD in Cologne. The beautiful chapel of our Lady, warm in its woodworked beautiful chapel of St. Brigid’s in Miller’s
interiors offered the perfect environment for the catechesis. Point was filled with the strains of the
exotic Carnatic and Hindustani music as
Starting off in a typical Jesus Youth manner, with an action song, the pilgrims quickly got Jesus Youth led three groups of WYD
into the groove. Each day, the programme included a music session, a time of worship, pilgrims - across three consecutive
reconciliation, catechesis from the bishop, and a co-ordinated discussion followed by a sessions - through a contemplative time of
lively celebration of the Holy Mass. Rexband animated the group with music and action traditional Indian prayer. The pilgrims were
songs. With all themes centred on the Holy Spirit, Bishop William Edward Lori from the welcomed in unmistakable Indian style by
United States spoke on the first day of the Catechesis on how we are called to live in the adorning their foreheads with a ‘tilak’ of
Holy Spirit. On the second day, Bishop Tria Tirona from the Philippines, took off from where sandalwood paste. The chants sung by
Bishop Edward had stopped and went on to explain how the Holy Spirit is the soul of the trained Indian vocalists of Rexband were
Church. His unique humour often left the audience in splits. Bishop John Mathias from India accompanied by Indian percussion and
shared his experiences about how evangelization is impossible without the Holy Spirit in his wind instruments. The music integrated
address on the final day of the catechesis. The pilgrims were highly responsive, eager to chants of worship, contemplation and
learn and full of joy throughout the catechesis. For Jesus Youth it was once again a joyous celebration. The pilgrims were moved by
privilege to be animating youth from around the world, right in the heart of the Church. the depth and poignancy of the chants.

JESUS YOUTH @ WYD

REXBAND

Rexband performs at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Royal Hall of Industries and Racehorse Ground, Randwick

SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 7

 Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara
celebrates the Inaugural Mass

JYIG
Bishop Christopher Prowse celebrating Holy Mass

“I EXPERIENCED A SENSE OF BELONGING.

INTERACTING WITH JESUS YOUTH FROM
JESUS YOUTH AROUND THE GLOBE HELPED ME LEARN
INTERNATIONAL GATHERING MORE ABOUT THE WAYS IN WHICH THEY
ARE RESPONDING TO GOD’S CALL.
21 - 23 JULY, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA I REALISED THAT I TOO AM BEING CALLED
TO A MISSIONARY LIFE, EVERY DAY,
EVERY MOMENT.” DORIN, UK

“THE COMMITMENT LEVEL OF OUR

LEADERS, WHO TRAVEL AROUND THE
WORLD FOR MISSIONARY WORK IN SPITE
OF THE DIFFICULTIES INVOLVED, TRULY
MOTIVATED ME FOR MISSIONARY LIFE.”
NIDHEESH JOSEPH, INDIA

The second Jesus Youth International Gathering

(JYIG) was held from 21st to 23rd July in Sydney
as an after-party to the World Youth Day 2008
celebrations. As the final act in the pilgrimage
of a lifetime, the JYIG brought together about
200 Jesus Youth from over 13 countries under
one roof as one family in order to reflect on the
directions of the Holy Spirit regarding the
growth of Jesus Youth and to dream ahead for a
wider awakening to His call, overcoming present
challenges. The programme began with an
Inaugural Mass celebrated by Most Rev.

Inauguration Ceremony
Abraham Viruthakulangara, Archbishop
of Nagpur, India. His Grace’s homily on
“What the Church is Saying to Jesus
Youth Today” was inspiring and
encouraging. He emphasised the need
to be rooted in the Church. The Mass
was followed by a procession of the
flags of various countries and a graceful
Thai dance presented by JY Thailand.
The session by Most Rev. Christopher
Prowse, Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne
on “What the Holy Spirit is Saying to
Jesus Youth Today”struck a
contemplative note. Sweeping the
participants off their feet was the
flagging-off of the ‘JY Express’- a
unique journey led by one of the
pioneers of Jesus Youth, Dr. Edward
Edezhath. With a series of sharings
from Jesus Youth over the last three
decades, the ‘JY Express’ took everyone
on a roller-coaster ride down memory
lane - from the initial dreams about the
ministry to how it got its name and
challenges for mission in some
countries to ‘what next?’. The gathering
provided wonderful opportunities for
youth to share and inspire one another.
The workshops served as a platform for
“I WAS INSPIRED BY THE LOVE AND LIFE
OF THE JY FAMILY. THE WORKSHOPS,
PRAISE AND WORSHIP, THE INSTALLATION
OF THE NEW INT’L TEAM, IN FACT, THE
WHOLE EVENT WAS A GOOD EXPRIENCE.”
THEOPHILE, THAILAND
“MEETING SO MANY YOUNG JY FRIENDS
FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES AND
LISTENING TO THEIR SHARING WAS TRULY
ENCOURAGING AND CHALLENGING.“
DIANA TOM, IRELAND
Priests & Religious with Bishop Christopher Prowse at JYIG
group sharing with topics ranging from Local JY Organising Team, Sydney
personal reflections to building ministries.
A panel sharing led by the dynamic duo of
Dony Peter and Mayrose Pius brought us to
‘Meet the Nations’ where leaders shared
unique Spirit-led initiatives in all countries
where Jesus Youth has reached out on
mission.
Theme-based adorations, inspiring
sermons and uplifting music moved every “A TRULY BLESSED AND MOVING
heart to feel the presence of the Holy EXPERIENCE THAT HAS CREATED A RENEWED
Spirit, entrusting them with a mission to DESIRE TO SEE THIS MOVEMENT THROUGH
take back home. The Music Ministry was TO THE NEXT GENERATION, AND A
unique, comprising of Jesus Youth from 4 RENEWED FIRE AND PASSION THAT WILL
different continents led by Jomy Abraham UNQUESTIONABLY CARRY US ON TO THE
(UAE) and Thomas John (Australia).The NEXT INTERNATIONAL GATHERING!”
gathering was truly a celebration of JUDY RAPPAI, AUSTRALIA
companionship in Christ and a refuelling
of our missionary zeal. The grand finale
kicked-off preparations for the Jesus
Youth Silver Jubilee celebrations in 2010,
and called upon all JY to gear-up for this
mega event. As everyone danced and said
their goodbyes promising to pray for one
another, an air of jubilation and hope
lingered on for each one and for the
movement as a whole.
SEEMA THOMAS, Singapore
“I WAS TOUCHED DURING THE MASS
CELEBRATED BY BISHOP CHRISTOPHER
PROWSE. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT I
HEARD A BISHOP SPEAKING IN TONGUES
WHILE CELEBRATING HOLY MASS. HIS
MESSAGE WAS VERY INSPIRING AND GAVE
ME A NEW INSIGHT INTO OUR MISSIONARY
CALL.” MARIAM GEORGE, UAE
“SEEING PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT
COUNTRIES, UNDER ONE NAME ‘JESUS YOUTH’
TRULY GAVE ME THE UNDERSTANDING OF
HOW BLESSED WE ARE.”
HAZEL IRIMPAN, CANADA
SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 9
RECONSTITUTION
JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL TEAM
21 JULY 2008, LIVERPOOL, SYDNEY

The process of finding leadership in a group

speaks volumes about the nature and style explained. In the afternoon all the participants voted on the panel which was
of that group. The Jesus Youth International then processed by the Discernment Team and the final team was announced in
Team (JYIT) was reconstituted at Liverpool, the evening. The new team met together with the Discernment Team and the
Sydney on 21st July 2008. This final new Co-ordinator and Assistant Co-ordinator were selected from among them.
discernment day was the culmination of a DR. EDWARD EDEZHATH, India
six-month long world wide JY preparation
under the guidance of the JYIT and its co-
ordinator Manoj Sunny. In the first phase of
the reconstitution ending in March 2008, all
the national teams prepared a panel for the
next team from their own respective
countries. Later JYIT with needed additions,
circulated this panel with a brief bio-data of
each person. Special invitees were also
proposed by the national teams for the
reconstitution.

Nearly 90 Jesus Youth leaders, animators

and pastors from 15 different countries
came together for the reconstitution on
21st July. A small team led by Archbishop
Abraham Viruthakulangara of Nagpur
guided the process. After a time of prayer,
Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Edward Edezhath and
Manoj Sunny spoke to the group on “Jesus
Youth in the Church and the World Today”.
Later in preparation for the discernment,
each member of the panel was introduced
and the reconstitution process was
Praying over the new International Team

A BRAND NEW SON RISE!

Rexband – the music outreach of Jesus Youth – released their latest album ‘SON RISE’ on
27th June 2008 at the Rock Auditorium in Singapore during the first concert of their summer
tour covering Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. Most Rev. Nicholas Chia, Archbishop of
the Diocese of Singapore released the album and gave the first copy to Fr. William Goh,
Spiritual Director, JY Singapore. This album is perhaps slightly different in its approach,
having more songs of worship and praise compared to earlier albums. Yet they are arranged
very much in the usual Rexband manner, fusing contemporary music and ethnic styles. An
introduction on the album cover beautifully sums up what the songs are all about:

“IF THE SON HAD NOT RISEN IN OUR LIVES, OUR

DAYS WOULD CONTAIN NO JOY, OUR VOICES
WOULD CARRY NO MUSIC AND OUR HEARTS
WOULD HOLD NO LOVE. WE SING, DANCE, LOVE
AND LIVE BECAUSE HE ARISES EVERY
MOMENT, DISPELLING THE DARKNESS WITH HIS
ETERNAL DAWN. AND EVERY SONG IN
IF THE SON HAD NOT RISEN IN THIS ALBUM IS A CELEBRATION OF HIS RADIANT
OUR LIVES, OUR DAYS WOULD PRESENCE. LET THE SON RISE!”
CONTAIN NO JOY
Release of ‘SON RISE’ - Rexband’s latest album
THE NEWLY
RE-CONSTITUTED
JESUS YOUTH
INTERNATIONAL TEAM

GEORGE DEVASSY FR. THOMAS NAVIN BRUCE

JY International THARAYIL, THOMAS
Co-ordinator JY International JY International
Pursuing his doctoral Pastor Asst. Co-ordinator
studies in Bangkok. Management Professional.
Diocese of Vijaypuram,
Former JY South East Coordinated JY Full time
Kerala, India.
Asia Co-ordinator. Volunteers’ Trainings.

BABY CHACKO
FR. AJY Animator FR. JAMES
MOOLEPARAMBIL CMI Senior JY animator. MULLIGAN
Animator Significant role in Animator
Pastor, JY Germany. shaping JY leaders, Pastor, JY New Zealand.
especially Full time
Volunteers.

SUNIL SILJO THOMAS MAYROSE PIUS

India
NADARAJAN, USA Healthcare
Australia
IT Professional. Member, Professional. HR Consultant. Assistant
Jesus Youth of America National Coordinator of
National Co-ordinator
National Team. JY Australia.
of JY India.

NIMMI PAUL MANOJ SUNNY JOSE

Thailand India MATHEW, UK
Management Professional. Engineer. Former Social worker.
National Co-ordinator of JY International JY European
JY Thailand. Co-ordinator. Co-ordinator.

RAJESH
RAIJU SANTHOSH
THALAPPILLIL,
VARGHESE MATHEW, UAE
India Businessman. Member
Australia
Advocate. Former of JY Middle East Medical Scientist.
National Co-ordinator Team. National Co-ordinator
of JY India. of JY Australia.

ROOPESH SEEMA THOMAS ANNA BORN

THOMAS, Oman Singapore Germany
Engineer. Assistant Engineer. Member, Teaching Professional.
Coordinator, JY Oman National Team, JY Member, National Team,
Service Team. Singapore. JY Germany.

DONY PETER, JULIUS C. C. JOSEPH

India India
Pursuing doctoral
ANTONY, UAE
Businessman. HR Consultant. Former
studies in Bangkok. National Co-ordinator
JY Full time JY Middle East
Co-ordinator. of JY India.
Volunteer 2006.

SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 11

 JYILT
JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL
LEADERS’ TRAINING
25 JULY - 8 AUGUST 2008, SINGAPORE

Witnessing a fruitful phase in the

Jesus Youth Movement, twenty-
four leaders from ten different
countries across four continents
gathered at the Choice Retreat
Centre in Singapore from 25th July
- 8th August 2008. It was the first
time that such a training was
being conducted for Jesus Youth
Leaders on an international level.

The participants were blessed with

an incredible resource team that
included Rev. Fr. Fio Mascarenhas,
Rev. Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Prof. C. C.
Alicekutty, Dr. Edward Edezhath,
Manoj Sunny, C. C. Joseph, Alex
Njavally, Chackochan Njavallil,
V. J. Antony, Reena Antony and
Sunil Nadarajan. The training
began with sessions on paradigm
shift, which opened their minds,
enabling learning without bias.
The training continued with a
focus on leadership, integrity and
the Jesus Youth movement. It also
gave an insight to what the

His Grace Nicholas Chia celebrating Holy Mass & presenting certificates to participants

“ MOST OF THE
LEADERS WHO
CAME FOR THE
TRAINING HAD
BEEN ACTIVE
IN THE JY
MINISTRIES
FOR A DECADE OR MORE. WHAT
SURPRISED ME WAS THEIR GREAT
DESIRE AND INTEREST TO GET
TRAINED IN THEIR RESPECTIVE
MINISTRIES SO AS TO DO IT WITH
MORE COMMITMENT AND
EFFECTIVENESS. THIS IS WHAT
ENCOURAGED ME TO BE AVAILABLE
TO THE GROUP FULL TIME. I HAVE
GREAT APPRECIATION FOR THE JY
INTERNATIONAL TEAM, WHICH
TOOK SUCH AN IMPORTANT STEP.”
FR. BITAJU PUTHENPURACKAL,
PASTOR, TRAINING TEAM
‘AS
CHRISTIAN
LIFE IS A
PILGRIMAGE
TO THE
HOUSE OF
OUR
HEAVENLY FATHER, 24 ACTIVE JY
LEADERS FROM DIFFERENT PARTS
OF THE WORLD GATHERED IN A
TRAVELERS’ INN AT SINGAPORE
WHERE THEY EVALUATED THEIR
PAST DAYS’ JOURNEY AND
EQUIPPED THEMSELVES FOR THE
COMING DAYS. AFTER THE
TRAINING, ALL THESE LEADERS
RESUMED THEIR PILGRIMAGE
WITH RENEWED ENERGY. THIS
TRAINING HELPED THEM
SHARPEN THEIR VISION AND
UPDATE THEMSELVES ON RECENT
REALITIES.”
ADV. RAIJU VARGHESE,
CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM.
movement requires of its leaders. The sessions
on the Catholic Church and the Bible helped
convince the participants of their mission and
the need to seek support from the Church.
The 24 participants were commissioned by Most
Rev. Nicholas Chia, Archbishop of the Diocese
of Singapore, on 8th August 2008. His Grace
challenged every one to live out their call to
leadership and assured them of his prayer
support. The anointing of the Spirit was
experienced throughout the ceremony.
Encouraged by the presence of a committed
training team consisting of Rev. Fr. Bitaju
Puthenpurackal O.Ss.T., Prof. C. C. Alicekutty,
Adv. Raiju Varghese and Anoop Jerome, the
participants took home loads of learning.
Moreover they returned deeply motivated to
become Christ-centred missionaries and leaders.
NIMMI PAUL, Thailand
Commitment Ceremony
“THE TRAINING GAVE ME AN
INSIGHT INTO THE CATHOLIC
CHURCH AND ITS BEAUTIFUL
TEACHINGS AS WELL AS THE
MOVEMENT IN A MUCH BROADER
PERSPECTIVE. THE SHARING BY
VARIOUS LEADERS WAS
INSPIRING. THE INTERNATIONAL
FACE OF JESUS YOUTH HAS
BEEN A REVELATION FOR ME.”
PAULSON JOSE, INDIA
“THE PROGRAMME, WHICH WAS RICH
IN CATHOLIC CULTURE, GAVE ME
CLARITY REGARDING THE GLOBAL
PERSPECTIVE OF JESUS YOUTH. AT THE
SAME TIME, I COULD CHERISH THE
FELLOWSHIP AND THE JOYFUL
SPIRITUALITY OF LEADERS FROM
DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE WORLD.
THEIR CHRIST-CENTREDNESS REALLY
CHALLENGED AND MOTIVATED ME.”
TOJY TOM, IRELAND
“THE TRAINING MET ALL MY
EXPECTATIONS. I WAS ACTUALLY
STRUGGLING TO SUSTAIN MYSELF AS A
YOUTH LEADER, AND THE TRAINING
HELPED ME FOCUS ON MY CALL IN THE
MINISTRY. I AM CERTAIN THE TRAINING
WILL HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON EACH OF
OUR LIVES AS WELL AS ON THE
MOVEMENT. THE NEW CONVICTIONS
HELPED ME TO MAKE A DECISION TO
REMAIN FAITHFUL TO MY CALL AS A
LEADER.” JULIUS ANTONY, MIDDLE EAST
“THE TRAINING HAS BEEN
AN ENRICHING
EXPERIENCE AND A TIME
OF EMPOWERMENT AND
SPECIAL ANOINTING. I
PERSONALLY FEEL IT IS A
CALL TO BE MORE
COMMITTED AND TO SERVE
AND BUILD A LOVING
COMMUNITY THAT LISTENS
TO GODS’ VOICE.”
LEEA SERRAO, SINGAPORE
SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 13
YAI
YOUTH ARISE INTERNATIONAL
YOUTH FESTIVAL
ST. JOSEPH’S NUDGEE COLLEGE, BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA
10 – 13 JULY 2008
Salvatore Martinez Fr. Tom Forrest

Henry Cappello with Matteo Calisi

The Youth Arise International Youth Festival
(YAI) was held at St Joseph’s Nudgee College,
Brisbane, Australia from 10th – 13th July 2008.
Over 700 participants from across the world
were present at this programme organised by
Youth Arise International - a federation of
international Catholic youth movements that
promotes youth evangelization and discipleship
throughout the world. For many, YAI was a time
to prepare for WYD, to get accustomed
physically to the climatic conditions, as well as
to open their hearts to ‘receive the power’. As
bodies froze and shivered, the spirits of the
participants thawed under the Son-shine of
the Holy Trinity. The festival brought together
youth the world over to experience a time of
blessing, encouragement, friendship and
grace, and to celebrate their unity in Christ.
The key note address by Henry
Cappello (President of YAI) set “IT WAS AN “THE BEAUTIFUL,
the right tone at the onset of OPPORTUNITY TO DYNAMIC PRAISE
the festival. The session by the MEET YOUNGSTERS AND WORSHIP,
acclaimed speaker Salvatore FROM OTHER INSIGHTFUL TALKS
Martinez illustrated the way he GROUPS WITH AND OUTPOURING
lives out the Gospel, especially CHARISMATIC OF THE HOLY
among children with special SPIRITUALITY. TO SPIRIT - ALL THIS
needs. Sessions and workshops KNOW THEIR FAITH MADE THE EVENT
AND TO SEE THEIR SPIRITUALLY
were conducted by renowned
COMMITMENT TO UPLIFTING AND
speakers like Fr. Tom Forrest,
MISSION INSPIRED WORTHWHILE.”
Fr. Gino Henriques, Fr. Chris ME A LOT.” SHIJI ANN GOMEZ,
Ryan, Fr. Ken Barker, Matteo VARGHESE, INDIA SINGAPORE
Calisi, Rob Clark, Bob McCarty, YAI International Council
Sabina Cappello and Shane
Bennett among others.

Movements from various

countries joined in the festival
with their different yet
complementary styles of worship
and ministering. Matt Maher’s
band, Emmanuel Worship, and
Jesus Youth’s very own Rexband
were the main teams
ministering through
contemporary Christian music.
Their vibrant concerts were the
highlight of each night at
Brisbane. On one of the nights,
towards the close of the
ministering by the Rexband, it
was amazing to witness young
people queuing up to receive the
Sacrament of Reconciliation. The
auditorium was filled with the Rexband
‘peace that surpasses
understanding’. The programme
was an unforgettable experience
that gave participants a
renewed hope and passion for
the Catholic Church. It was
amazing to see many different
nations united in praising God
and celebrating the Sacraments.

The event was designed to allow

participants to choose from a
wide variety of workshops each Matt Maher
day. Topics such as
Evangelisation, Growing in “IT WAS “TO WITNESS A “BEING WITH SO
Leadership, Receiving the Holy REALLY GREAT NINETY-YEAR MANY YOUTH
Spirit and Spirituality of TO SEE SO OLD PRIEST FROM ALL OVER
Communion were covered. One of MANY YOUNG INSPIRING THE WORLD WITH
the most inspiring and CATHOLICS EVEN THE ONE COMMON
unforgettable talks was given by FROM NINETEEN YEAR PURPOSE - JESUS
Fr. Tom Forrest about AROUND THE OLDS WITH HIS CHRIST - HELPED
evangelizing the youth of the WORLD. THE YOUTHFUL RENEW MY
Patrick Keady, Emmanuel Worship
world today, and his message for TALKS AND SPIRIT AND VISION AND
the young people was: “Go, go, SESSIONS LOVE FOR THE IDENTIFY MY
“WITH SO MANY PARTICIPATING ESPECIALLY LORD WAS STRENGTH TO
go and be witnesses for the Lord,
PRIESTS, THERE WAS ALWAYS ON HOW TO TRULY MINISTER
not tomorrow but today.” After
SOMEONE AVAILABLE FOR EVANGELISE AWESOME.” THROUGH
all, this is what YAI is all about !
PERSONAL TALK. THE MUSIC TOO WERE REALLY FR. SONY, MUSIC.” BIBIN
MAYROSE PIUS, Australia WAS GREAT AND LED ME INTO INSPIRING.” IRELAND SOLOMON, UAE
DEEPER PRAYER.” RINI, UK
HESO, GERMANY

SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 15

 “I WAS IMPRESSED
BY THE QUALITY OF
THE PARTICIPANTS
AND THEIR
READINESS TO
BECOME AGENTS
OF TRANSFORMATION. A BAND OF
PEOPLE READY TO PAY THE PRICE FOR
DISCIPLESHIP. THEIR OPENNESS,
DOCILITY AND READINESS TO ENTER
INTO THE CULTURE OF SILENCE AND
LISTENING WAS REMARKABLE. I
WISH AND PRAY THAT THESE
PARTICIPANTS BECOME A CORE
GROUP FOR FUTURE BUILDING UP,
TRAINING AND ANIMATION.
FR. ABRAHAM PALLIVATHUKAL SJ,
PASTOR, TRAINING TEAM

JYIAT JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL

ANIMATORS’ TRAINING
25 JULY - 7 AUGUST, BANGKOK, THAILAND

Fifteen participants from six different countries

“THE ACTIVE
gathered for the first Jesus Youth International INVOLVEMENT
Animators’ Training held at the Garden of Gospel OF EACH
Peace Retreat Centre in Bangkok. They came from ANIMATOR WAS
USA, UK, UAE, Germany, India and Thailand. VISIBLE
THROUGHOUT
Starting on 25th July and ending on 7th August, the THE TRAINING
programme kicked-off with a two-day retreat WHICH BUILT A
followed by 14 days of diverse training sessions. GOOD FELLOWSHIP AMONG THEM
These were handled by JY elders and trainers like AND ULTIMATELY LED TO A LOVE
Rev. Fr. Abraham Pallivathukal S.J., Baby Chacko, AND CONCERN FOR THE CHURCH
V. J. Antony, Reena Antony, Dr. Edward Edezhath, AND THE JY MOVEMENT. THE
Manoj Sunny, C.C. Joseph, Alex Njavally and SESSIONS, PANEL WORKSHOP,
Chackochan Njavallil. The presence of His Grace ETC. HANDLED BY JY PASTORS
Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil SDB, Archbishop AND LEADERS IMPARTED GREAT
of Guwahati and his session on ‘Apologetics’ was a IDEAS AS WELL AS GUIDELINES
blessing indeed. FOR BECOMING AN EFFECTIVE
JESUS YOUTH ANIMATOR. I AM
The training included meditations, workshops and GLAD TO HAVE BEEN PART OF THIS
INITIATIVE.”
testimonies. The focus was on communicating with
PROF. V. M. GEORGE,
the youth, listening, mentoring, pastoring, building
CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM
leadership, integrity, use of charisms, etc. All the
sessions were interactive, helping
the participants to search deep
within to find their role in the
changing realm of youth today.
They were made aware of many of
the mistakes animators and elders
usually make and the wrong
approaches taken while dealing
with the youth. The spirit of unity
and fellowship experienced was a
key element of the training.
‘Accompanying the Youth’ was the
central theme, which can also be “THE SACRAMENTS AND
termed as the primary ADORATION STRENGTHENED
responsibility of every youth MY BODY, MIND AND SOUL.
animator. It meant being with THE SESSIONS ON MENTORING
them not just physically, but AND PASTORING MADE ME
mentally and spiritually. The daily REALIZE MY DUTIES AND
Adorations and Eucharistic RESPONSIBILITIES AS AN
celebrations helped everyone ANIMATOR. FELLOWSHIP WITH
deepen their relationship with the ANIMATORS FROM DIFFERENT
Lord and learn from the Master COUNTRIES WAS A TRULY
Animator himself. The training MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE.”
helped them to recognize their MONCY GEORGE, UAE

“IT WAS A TIME OF SELF “THE ANIMATORS’

DISCOVERY. LIVING WITH TRAINING WAS AN
PARTICIPANTS FROM INSPIRATIONAL
DIFFERENT NATIONS AND BEGINNING TO SPIRITUAL
AGE GROUPS GAVE US A IMPROVEMENT FOR EVERY
TASTE OF EARLY CHRISTIAN PARTICIPANT. ALL ECHOED
COMMUNITY LIVING. WE IN UNISON THAT SUCH
WERE MADE AWARE OF TRAINING IS ESSENTIAL
THE URGENCY OF FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF
EVANGELIZATION, YOUTH IN THEIR
PARTICULARLY OF YOUTH.” RESPECTIVE REGIONS.”
FR. JAS ELANJIKAL, INDIA JOSE MALAICKAL,USA

Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil with the participants and the training team

unique call as animators and “THROUGH INPUTS AND

understand the challenges that lay INTERACTIONS WITH MANY
ahead of them. Even though many PEOPLE, WE WERE ENRICHED
have been active in youth AND BECAME MORE AWARE OF
animation, the training brought THE GREATNESS OF OUR CALL.
new awareness and a paradigm WE REALIZE THAT WE NEED TO
shift in thinking. ‘BE WITH’ THE YOUTH. WE HAVE
BEEN RE-IGNITED TO LIVE THE
The training programme ended with GOSPEL LIFE IN ORDER TO BE
a commissioning ceremony and AGENTS OF TRANSFORMATION.”
anointing of the Spirit during the SUNITHA & ANIL ISRAEL,
Holy Mass on 7th August 2008. GERMANY
The participants have decided to
form an email network to continue
growing in fellowship and to share
experiences, ideas, news, etc.
Everybody felt that such trainings
should become a regular event, so
that more animators and elders
from different parts of the world
are enriched and enlightened to
take on the challenges of youth
animation.
JOMY ABRAHAM, UAE

SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 17


A SERIES OF TWELVE CONCERTS ACROSS THREE
COUNTRIES IN ONE MONTH - MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
- HE MADE IT POSSIBLE BY HIS GRACE.
REXBAND’S SUMMER TOUR - A JOURNEY OF FAITH
AND IMMENSE GRACE.
REXBAND SUMMER TOUR OF SINGAPORE, NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA
REXBAND
With the experience of two incredible World Youth
Days behind us, the Rexband began to gear up for its
third WYD down under, as well as a series of
concerts in Singapore, New Zealand and Australia.
As we took a one month break from our regular jobs
and began the recording of our new album, it
seemed like “Mission Impossible” with Jesus in the
lead. We witnessed a miracle of multiplication; but
instead of fish and bread He multiplied time and
within the shortest time and over several cities,
“SON RISE” happened. And with that the Lord
launched us into a whirligig of boarding flights with
loads of baggage, finding ourselves in a new city
every day, meeting and staying with new people,
praying with and ministering to people of different
races, seeing exciting new landscapes, battling with
extreme and hitherto unfamiliar climatic conditions,
setting up and dismantling equipment, with only a
few hours of sleep and a concert nearly every
evening. And always, always, to experience His mercy
and grace and the power of His Spirit!
The first of our series of 12 concerts was in the Rock
Auditorium in Singapore where we had the release of
our new album “Son Rise.” The Singaporeans had
prayed and fasted, and the Lord’s presence was felt
throughout, strengthening us and again proving to us
how much the victory of the Lord is carried on the
prayers of the people that host us.
27TH JUNE – 20TH JULY 2008
From Singapore we proceeded to New
Zealand, where we had three concerts in
Auckland, Christchurch and Whangarei
and a two hour music workshop in
Pompallier Catholic College, Whangarei.
Despite the freezing cold that played
havoc with our health, the concerts went
off without a hitch. The warmth of the
welcome we received from the people
there made us forget the cold.

JY Australia organised 5 concerts in

Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra
and Sydney. The third leg of our tour “JUST LIKE TO CONGRATULATE YOU ON
started with the concert in Melbourne THE AWESOME PERFORMANCE YOU
from where we set off to the other cities. DID IN WHANGAREI. IT WAS TRULY
We participated in the Youth Arise Festival INSPIRATIONAL! THANKS FOR THE CD!
in Brisbane where we ministered and also IT’S THE ONLY THING I PLAY IN MY CAR
met with some renowned musicians and NOW!” JAMES THOMPSON,
Catholic bands like Matt Maher and WHANGAREI
Emmanuel Worship. Then of course there
was the excitement of joining thousands
of World Youth Day pilgrims from across
the world to welcome the Holy Father in
“IT WAS A WONDERFUL RELIGIOUS
Sydney and gather around him in prayer.
EXPERIENCE AND A BRILLIANT MUSICAL
We had three concerts at the WYD
PRODUCTION. I PRAY THAT THE LORD
festival and led pilgrims in an afternoon
WILL CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU ALL AS
of Indian worship after which we treated
YOU GIVE WITNESS TO HIM ESPECIALLY
them to Indian snacks.
DURING THE WORLD YOUTH DAY
ACTIVITIES.” MOST REV. DENIS BROWNE
Our concerts were a wonderful experience
BISHOP OF HAMILTON
of God’s presence in the many people who
hosted us, and in those who came to the
shows and with whom we had a chance to
pray and experience the Lord’s love in a “WE ENJOYED YOUR CONCERT. KEEP
special way. Without exception all the host SINGING AND LET THE WORLD KNOW
families throughout Australia, all those ABOUT JESUS THROUGH YOUR
wonderful Jesus Youth who untiringly MINISTRY. YOUR MUSIC NOT ONLY
organized the concerts touched our hearts APPEALS TO THE Y GENERATION BUT
and lives in an exceptional way. So much ALSO THE OLDER FOLKS. I AM 47 AND
so, that though we are still reeling from HAVE 2 TEENAGE KIDS AND WE ALL
the hectic time of travel, hopping off and ENJOYED THE SHOW THOROUGHLY!”
on to planes, and juggling all our work and SAMUEL GEORGE, BRISBANE
commitments back home, we would be
more than ready to say “Yes” if God calls “SEEING REXBAND PERFORM, I COULD
us to the next WYD in Madrid! FEEL THE LOVE THEY HAVE FOR GOD AND
GEORGE ETTYIL THE LOVE GOD HAS FOR ALL OF US EVEN
THOUGH WE SIN. IT’S AMAZING HOW THEY
USE THEIR TALENTS TO REACH OUT TO
“COMING HOME FROM THE REXBAND
PEOPLE. I TEARED UP AT SOME MOMENTS
CONCERT, THE LAST SONG ‘HALLELUJAH,
DURING THE CONCERT; IT WAS SO
AMEN’ WAS STUCK IN OUR HEADS. AT
TOUCHING AND OVERWHELMING.”
THE TRAIN STATION, A MAN STARTED
CRISTY RODRIGUES, SINGAPORE
VERBALLY ABUSING OUR GROUP OF
NEARLY 30 PILGRIMS. A FEW OF US
TRIED TO REASON WITH HIM BUT HE KEPT
YELLING. AT THIS POINT, A COUPLE OF US
STARTED SINGING ‘HALLELUJAH, AMEN’.
AND SOON EVERYONE JOINED IN
DROWNING OUT THE ANGRY SHOUTS. A
STATION GUARD ALSO APPEARED TO
DIFFUSE THE SITUATION AND WE SANG
ALL THE WAY HOME. THANK YOU
REXBAND FOR INSPIRING US...”
JAMES LAWLER, WYD PILGRIM

SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 19

JYIFT
“THE DAYS IN
BANGKOK FOR THE
FULL-TIMERS’
TRAINING WAS A
TIME OF REVIVAL IN
MY MISSIONARY
LIFE. MANY
VIBRANT YOUNG
PEOPLE ARE COMING UP WITH
ZEAL AND FIRE FOR THE GOSPEL
TODAY REVEALING THE
PRESENCE OF A YOUNG AND
VIBRANT CHURCH. THE WAY THEY

JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL COMMIT THEIR LIVES TO THE

LORD FROM THEIR HEARTS

FULLTIME VOLUNTEERS’ CHALLENGED ME. LISTENING TO

THE SHARING OF MANY YOUNG

TRAINING PEOPLE, I FELT A GREATER NEED

FOR LAITY FORMATION IN THE
25 JULY - 22 AUGUST 2008, BANGKOK CATHOLIC CHURCH.”
FR. AJY MOOLEPARAMBIL CMI,
GERMANY PASTOR, TRAINING
TEAM
“I then heard the voice of the Lord saying: ‘Whom shall I
send? Who will go for us?’” (Isaiah 6:8) and twenty young
lives across twelve countries cried out: “Here we are; “CHRIST IS RELEVANT
send us!” TO YOUNG PEOPLE
TODAY. I WAS
The third Jesus Youth International Fulltime Volunteers’ CONSTANTLY
Training was held at the Garden of Gospel Peace, REMINDED OF THIS
Franciscan Retreat Centre, Bangkok from 25th July to DURING THE DAYS OF
22ndAugust 2008.The participants, hailing from UK, USA, THE TRAINING. AFTER
Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, UAE, India, Bangladesh, GETTING TO KNOW
Pakistan, Cambodia, Thailand and Yemen, underwent an THE PARTICIPANTS, I AM VERY
intense training focusing on prayer, scriptural studies, HAPPY TO SEE THE DEEP CHANGES
interpersonal skills, orientation for evangelisation, etc. THAT HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN THEIR
The programme was co-ordinated by a Training Team LIVES WITHIN SUCH A SHORT TIME.
comprising of Rev. Fr. Ajy Mooleparambil CMI, Rev. Fr. I BELIEVE THE HOLY SPIRIT IS
Abraham Pallivathukal SJ, Navin Bruce Thomas, Baby EQUIPPING THEM FOR BIGGER
Chacko, Anna Born and Mayrose Pius. The presence of MISSIONS AROUND THE WORLD.”
other JY Leaders including Manoj Sunny and the new NAVIN BRUCE THOMAS,
International Coordinator, George Devassy was also CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM
encouraging.
It was a great privilege to have
His Grace Thomas
Menamparampil SDB, Archbishop
of Guwahati, take sessions for
the group, as his immense
knowledge and experience
touched and enkindled a deeper
affection for the Mother Church
in the young hearts. Other
resource persons who interacted
with the participants and
conducted sessions included Jude
Antoine (Malaysia), Dr. Edward
Edezhath, C. C. Joseph, Leo
Thaddeus and Alex Njavally.
The daily Mass, Adoration and
personal prayer were a great
source of strength,
transformation and hope. The
afternoon sessions began with
the Rosary which the
participants recited in creative
ways. Taizé Adoration was also a
different experience.
Br. Ghislain (Taizé Community,
France) gave a wonderful
introduction about Taizé and led
the prayer.
“IT WAS NOT JUST A TRAINING THE PASSION AND ZEAL “IT WAS A GREAT JOY TO BE
PROGRAMME TO DEEPEN OUR SHOWN BY FELLOW A PART OF THIS AMAZING
RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. IT PARTICIPANTS, GLOBAL COMMUNITY OF
WAS MUCH MORE THAN THAT, ANIMATORS AND THE YOUNGSTERS FILLED WITH
BECAUSE I LEARNT SO MANY RESOURCE TEAM, TO SHARE ZEAL AND ENTHUSIASM TO
THINGS FROM THE RETREAT, CHRIST WITH OTHERS SHARE CHRIST
THE SESSIONS AND MY BATCH TOUCHED AND INSPIRED ME. THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES. I
MATES. IT TAUGHT ME HOW TO JYIFT WAS A COMPREHENSIVE WAS ABLE TO
LIVE IN THIS WORLD WITH GOD, TRAINING TO BE A DISCIPLE UNDERSTAND THE DIVERSE
HOW TO CHANGE MYSELF, HOW AND MAKE DISCIPLES FOR CULTURES AND LIFE-
TO EVANGELIZE OTHER PEOPLE, CHRIST. IT SITUATIONS OF MY
AND HOW TO WORK AS A COVERED A VARIETY OF BROTHERS AND SISTERS
DISCIPLE. I LEARNT HOW TO AREAS, FROM PERSONAL AND THIS HAS OPENED MY
OVERCOME MY WEAKNESSES SPIRITUALITY, TO EYES TO THE GREATER
WITH ALL THE SUPPORT, LOVE EXPLORING AND REALITY OF THE MISSION
AND ENCOURAGEMENT FROM DEVELOPING ONESELF AS A THAT HAS BEEN
MY BATCH.” SHERIN ARATHIL, PERSON. ENTRUSTED TO US.”
AUSTRIA SHELTON D’COSTA, UK MELVIN DAVID, INDIA

The participants had a first-hand

experience in meeting new
people and in sharing Jesus with
them through a campus
outreach to Assumption
University, Bangkok. Fr. Amnuoy
(Pastor, JY Thailand) extended “I HEARD INSPIRING SESSIONS
his support in making this BY SOME OF THE BEST
outreach an unforgettable RESOURCE PERSONS IN THE
experience. The participants also WORLD AND GAINED
visited the AIDS patients at St. INVALUABLE FRIENDSHIPS WITH
Clare’s Hospice. OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE WHOSE
HEARTS ARE SET ON HIS
The training concluded with a KINGDOM. ALTOGETHER, I’VE
Commitment Ceremony and Holy COME BACK FROM BANGKOK
Mass on 22nd August 2008. It WITH A MUCH STRONGER SENSE
was an honour to have His OF COMMITMENT AND FOCUS.”
Excellency John Bosco Panya, THOMAS PULICKAL, USA
Bishop of Rachapuri to bless,
anoint and commission these
“IT WAS A WONDERFUL
young missionaries.
EXPERIENCE LIVING WITH 19
UNFAMILIAR PEOPLE WITH WHOM
Eleven of the 20 participants
WE PRAYED, PLAYED, LAUGHED
have taken a fulltime
AND CRIED TOGETHER FOR 29
commitment in different
DAYS. THIS TRAINING HAS
countries while the remaining
CHANGED MY WHOLE ATTITUDE
nine people will take part time
TOWARDS LIFE. IT HAS NOT ONLY
or weekend commitments in
PREPARED ME FOR THIS ONE
their respective countries. May
YEAR COMMITMENT TO
God bless these young disciples
MISSIONARY WORK BUT HAS
as they go out into the world to
ALSO PREPARED ME FOR A
lead more disciples to the love
LIFETIME COMMITMENT TO THE
of Christ!
LORD.” VENETIA PEREIRA, U.A.E
JOBY JOSE, YEMEN

Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil with the

participants and the training team SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 21
 AS JESUS YOUTH FROM AROUND THE WORLD GATHERED AT ALL SAINTS CHURCH, SYDNEY ON 22ND JULY 2008, THE
SECOND DAY OF THE JESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL GATHERING, HIS EXCELLENCY BISHOP CHRISTOPHER PROWSE,
DIOCESE OF MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, REVEALED HIS HOPES FOR THE FUTURE OF THE MOVEMENT. THIS ARTICLE IS A
CONDENSED VERSION OF HIS EXCELLENCY’S SESSION,“WHAT THE HOLY SPIRIT HAS TO SAY TO JESUS YOUTH TODAY”.
MY HOPES
FOR JESUS YOUTH
New Ecclesial Movements are a
grace for the Catholic Church and
there have been many such
movements in the history of the
Catholic Church (e.g. Benedictine,
Franciscan, etc). Some of these have
remained while some have vanished
into history. What is quite unique
about these movements in our time
is that there is no one great leader-
Saint (e.g. St. Benedict, St. Francis of
Assisi). Diffused throughout the
world, like an explosion of the Holy
Spirit, and largely led by lay people,
this seems to be an answer to the
prayer for a “New Pentecost” prayed
by Pope John XXIII.
What about “Jesus Youth”? Do you have
some of these characteristics? Yes, you have.
So, will Jesus Youth be here for a long time or
be like a rocket in the spiritual world - rise up
in a mighty fashion with all the “glitz” of
Pentecost and make a real impact in this
moment in time; but then fade out and fall
away into the horizon? Well, that depends on
the Holy Spirit. All is grace. But it may also
depend on the careful stewardship or prudent
care and discernment with which we respond
to what we have experienced as a real
footprint of the Holy Spirit now, in our times.
Here are what I feel may be some of the
many characteristics of a true and authentic
movement of the Holy Spirit in the Catholic
Church today; something that I call my
“forevers” and what I believe must be the
soul of any movement of the Holy Spirit that
calls itself Catholic.
BE FOREVER PENTECOST YOUNG
Be ‘Eagle’ Catholics living out a perpetual
Pentecost in this world. “Young men may
grow tired and weary, youths may stumble,
but those who hope in the Lord renew their
strength, they put out their wings like
eagles. They run and do not grow weary,
walk and never tire” (Isaiah 40:30-31). So
‘
‘
BE ‘EAGLE’ CATHOLICS
LIVING OUT
A PERPETUAL PENTECOST
IN THIS WORLD.
“fly and glide like an eagle”. Don’t be
“flapping” all the time. “Flap” to get to a
prayer time/place and give it real priority
every day, but when you are there “glide”. Be
lovers of SILENCE – God’s mother tongue.
Without this, Jesus Youth will eventually
“fossilize” and become merely a pious club.
Follow the Marian principle – “treasure and
ponder”(Lk. 2:51). Mary is forever a
blossoming Pentecost. She is forever young in
the Church.
BE FOREVER CATHOLIC
The key would be to keep up the
“communitarian” instinct and the wonder of
“oneness” and not to give into the
temptation to splinter. Invoke the ‘Peter
Principle’, which is neither authoritarian nor
lax, but is the authority of servant leadership.
Peter was not perfect, but he was a leader
who cried, “You are the Christ”. The
importance of the Holy Eucharist and the
Sacraments also need to be recognized, as
they are the living blood running through the
Catholic “veins”.
BE FOREVER MISSIONARY
“ Mary... Rabboni... GO! (John 20:11-18). Jesus
calls you by name - Jesus Youth. And when like
Mary you respond to the Saviour, you will
be sent on a mission as pilgrims. Believers
are always SENT. The Church is Ecclesia –
the sent out people of God. You always get
a responsibility when you are “captured by
Christ”. Be Thomas Christians. Like St.
Thomas who went out on the trading
routes, go out on the migrant routes to the
world.
BE FOREVER POOR
Always be “with the poor” but always
“against all forms of poverty”. Don’t
sentimentalize poverty. It is not a
Christian virtue. It is an assault on the
God who feeds His people with plenty.
The poor and the oppressed of the world
are your special friends. If you become
rich, that is fine, but be more generous.
Never let your possessions possess you.
Only Jesus is to be our one treasure.
BE FOREVER LOVING
AND LITTLE
God is Love (‘Deus Caritas Est’). Love and
humility are so important to draw people
to the Lord. Like St. Therese of Lisieux,
“Love Jesus and make him loved”.
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
Leaders’ Growth Retreat, Ireland
IRELAND
Leaders’ Growth Retreat
From 30th May to 2nd June, thirty-five
youngsters gathered for a leaders’ growth
retreat at St. Columban’s Retreat Centre,
Megharamore. Elvis Kottooran from India
was the main resource person, with Binu K.P
leading the music team. Fr. Sony Palathra,
Fr. Anthony Nallukunnel and Fr. Jim
Campbell celebrated Holy Mass and heard
Confessions.
Recommitment Day Celebrations
On 10th May 2008, over 25 Jesus Youth from
different parts of Ireland came together at
St. John the Baptist Church, Clontarff for
recommitting their lives and the movement
to God. The anointing prayer ceremony and
Holy Mass were led by Fr. Sony Palathra
(Pastor, Jesus Youth Ireland).
Tojy Tom
UK
Initial Retreat
An initial level retreat with 30 youngsters
was organised from 7th to 9th June 2008 at
Belfast. Elvis Kottooran from India was the
main resource person. Since most of the
participants were couples, many sessions
were family oriented.
Leaders’ Growth Retreat
A growth retreat for leaders was conducted
from 23rd to 26th May 2008 at Cefn Lea Park,
Leaders’ Growth Retreat, UK
Volunteers’ Training, Kuwait
Mid Wales, and attended by 50 participants.
Elvis Kottooran and Sanju Joseph were the
main resource persons.
‘Spirit in the City’ Festival
Fourteen Jesus Youth Leaders participated in
the ‘Spirit in the City’ festival organized by
West End churches in Leicester Square,
London on 7th June 2008.
Sibi Joseph
KUWAIT
One-day Programme for leaders
Over 140 JY leaders gathered for the
leaders’ programme organized at Our Lady
of Arabia Church, Ahmadi on 18th April 2008.
Fr. Antony Pulluvila O.C.D. celebrated Holy
Mass and Fr. Thomas Vadakedam took the
afternoon session.
Recommitment Day
Members of JY Kuwait celebrated
Recommitment Day on 11th May 2008.
Fr. Lionel, Principal, Don Bosco School
celebrated the Holy Mass.
Volunteers’ Training
A 15-day training was organised for 50
youngsters by Chackochan Njavallil from
India. Forty-five participants have taken a
one -year commitment to work in various
camps / hostels. The commissioning
ceremony was led by Most Rev. Camillo
Ballin, Bishop of Kuwait.
Mahesh Peter
JY Melbourne Service Team, Australia
‘Crossroads ’08’, Germany
AUSTRALIA
Reconstitution, Melbourne Service Team
Over 30 Jesus Youth came together on 3rd
May 2008 at St Francis, Melbourne City for
the reconstitution of the JY Service
Team. Two Bishops - His Excellency
Christopher Prowse and His Excellency Tim
Costello - were present to guide the group
during the discernment process. Bishop
Costello’s message to the new team was
to ”Belong to each other, and therefore be
responsible for each other,” while Bishop
Prowse continued to challenge them saying,
“Jesus Youth, bring in the harvest… I want
you to work with me.”
JY Family Retreat
A gathering of 50 participants consisting of
all JY families in Sydney was organised on 7th
June 2008 at Harris Park, Sydney.
Mayrose Pius
CANADA
‘All4Him 2008’, Toronto
Based on the WYD theme -”Power Up!”, the
JY of Canada and their friends organized the
4th annual ‘All4Him’ Praise & Worship concert
in Toronto. The powerful event included
music, dance, choreography and skit. David
MacDonald, a Canadian pro-life musician and
evangelist inspired the crowd with
his presence and his touching testimony.
Roy David
‘Campus Vibes 2008’, India
SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 23
 GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

New National Team, JY Singapore Leadership Training Programme, New Zealand

GERMANY Ferdin Antony and Johnson Jose. ‘Chalo Meghalaya’

Soji Joseph ‘Chalo Meghalaya’ was an initiative of the
‘LichtBleiben’08’ Teens Ministry, providing mission exposure to
Twenty German youngsters, including two SINGAPORE teenagers. There were 28 participants from 6
from Switzerland and one from Austria, states and 12 leaders including two nuns,
Jesus Net Anniversary
participated in ‘LichtBleiben’08’ (‘Stay in one priest and an elder from Kerala. The
Jesus Net, the central gathering of JY
the Light’) held at St. Carolus, Boppard from venture started with a retreat followed by a
Singapore that takes place every first
28th – 30th March 2008. The retreat based on training at Guwahati. The group then
Saturday of the month, celebrated its
the theme “You must live like people who proceeded to Shillong where they stayed
Second Anniversary on 3rd May 2008 at
belong to the light” (Eph.5:8) was conducted from 11th to 18th May and visited schools,
Church of the Risen Christ, Toa Payoh. Tomas
in German by Fr. Peter Mayer. parishes and colleges and organized
Issac and Dr. Priya from India were the main
‘Crossroads ’08’ resource persons for the event. programmes for young people.
A 3-day initial retreat - ‘Crossroads ’08’ ‘Campus Vibes 2008’, Bangalore
JY National Team Reconstitution
was conducted in German from 9th -12th May ‘Campus Vibes’ - a new initiative by the
The JY National Team for Singapore was
2008 at St. Carolus, Boppard.There were 48 National Campus Ministry was held at Holy
reconstituted at the end of a two-day retreat
participants. Fr. Peter Mayer was the key Cross Convent Banarghatta, Bangalore from
held from 16th to 18th May 2008 at Choice
resource person. Fr. Alex Tharaparambil and 6th to 15th June 2008. There were 38
Retreat Centre. Manoj Sunny and George
Ms. Philo were also present during the last participants representing 7 states across
Devassy were the main resource persons for
two days. The retreat concluded with the India. The programme aimed at understanding
the retreat. Shimy Stephen took over as the
Recommitment Day on Pentecost Monday led the present youth culture and trends, and
new Co-ordinator and Ann Pius as Asst. Co-
by Fr. Ajy Mooleparambil - member, JY reaching out to campuses across India.
ordinator. The team has Fr. William Goh as
International Team and Pastor of JY Germany. Siljo Thomas
their Spiritual Director and Dr. Mathew
Anil Israel
George and Andrew Mendez as Animators.
NEW ZEALAND Ann Pius
Leadership Training Programme INDIA
The first ever Jesus Youth leadership training
programme for New Zealand was conducted National Leaders’ Training, Nagpur.
at Manaia Campsite, Whangarei from 24th – The JY National Team organized a National
27th April 2008. Over 35 youngsters from Leaders’ Training in Hindi at Seminary Hills,
different places like Christchurch, Rotorua, Nagpur from 15th to 30th June 2008. There
Hamilton, Auckland and Whangarei were 27 participants from the northern and
participated in the event. Manoj Sunny central states of India. Most Rev. Abraham
(Former JY International Co-ordinator), Viruthakulangara, Archbishop of Nagpur,
C. C. Joseph and Mayrose Pius (members, JY celebrated Holy Mass and led the
International Team) animated the programme. commitment ceremony.
Following the training, zonal gatherings were Annual Evaluation, Mumbai
organised in Christchurch, Hamilton and The annual evaluation meeting of JY in India
Auckland to discuss the future mission of JY was held at Mumbai on 24th & 25th May 2008
New Zealand. The first Jesus Youth National with 105 participants from different parts of the
Team has also been formed with Fr. James country. The gathering was an occasion to MARY, QUEEN OF HEAVEN AND
Mulligan (Pastor), Assis Mathew (Animator), understand the growth of the movement in MOTHER OF THE HUMAN FAMILY, WE
Soji Joseph (Co-ordinator), Saby Sebastian, different regions and to plan the journey ahead. CONFIDENTLY ENTRUST TO YOU THE
WHOLE OF HUMANITY, WITH ITS
HOPES AND FEARS. SUSTAIN US ON
Contributors from different countries have rendered their help to make this issue of the Jesus Youth International OUR JOURNEY OF FAITH AND
Newsletter possible. Special thanks to Martin Jose (Australia), K. K. Joseph (UAE), Jose Joseph & Sebastian Andrews (USA)
for the photographs and Anna Pulickal (India), Brando Gray (UAE), Maria Paul, Suzette Morris, Judy Rappai & OBTAIN FOR US THE GRACE OF
Evelyn Richards (Australia), Theophile (Thailand), Rini Mathew (UK), Hazel Irimban (Canada), Shijimol Kurian (Ireland), ETERNAL SALVATION.
Anna Born, Jothy Kalathilparampil & Vincenz (Germany), and Binu Abraham (USA) for all their inputs.

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