Jesus Youth India: A missionary call to “wake up and Reach out!’

The Jaago Jesus Youth National Conference held at Christ University in Bangalore from October 21st to 24th, 2023, was a resounding success, serving as a compelling call to action for over 17,000 faithful from across India to “Wake up and Reach out!” The conference, a diverse gathering of youth couples, youth, priests, religious sisters, Bishops, and Cardinals, fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose within the Church. Archbishop Peter Machado, Metropolitan Archbishop of Bangalore, inaugurated the conference.

The active involvement and accompaniment of Sr. Liziamma Devasia (C.D) the superior of Nirmal Jyothi Bhanergatta, were instrumental in facilitating the participation of nine sisters, six candidates, and two students. Sisters and candidates displayed the vocation stoles adorned with attractive cards, flexes, and cutouts. This is to encourage young participants to reflect on and discern God’s call in their own lives.

The commitment and hard work of the Jesus Youth community served as a profound source of inspiration for all attendees. The emphasis on prayer and worship, foundational to the Jesus Youth Movement, showcased the depth of spirituality and the sincere dedication of participants to their faith.

The conference, marked by meaningful seminars, lively musical nights, challenging workshops, and captivating exhibitions, created a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. These elements provided a holistic and enriching experience, intellectually and spiritually, for all those present.

The sharing of personal testimonies by the faithful added a deeply personal and relatable touch to the conference, illustrating the transformative impact of faith in real lives. This sharing fostered a sense of connection and unity among the diverse group of participants, emphasizing the universal nature of the Christian journey.

The celebration of the Eucharist in participants’ mother tongues highlighted the rich cultural diversity within the Church. This multilingual approach underscored the inclusive nature of the Church’s message, reaching individuals in their unique linguistic and cultural contexts.

The Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament provided a sacred space for contemplation, prayer, and communion with the divine. This spiritual component allowed attendees to deepen their connection with the Holy Spirit and reflect on their personal relationship with God.