A MISSIONARY

MOVEMENT
AT THE SERVICE
OF THE CHURCH
WWW.JESUSYOUTH.ORG

December’04-March’05

Towards a
Eucharistic
“In the humble signs of bread and
wine, changed into his body and
blood, Christ walks beside us as our
strength and our food for the journey,
and he enables us to become, for

Spirituality
everyone, witnesses of hope.”
Pope John Paul II
(cf. 62 Ecclesia de Eucharista)

“The Church draws her life from the Eucharist.”

(Ecclesia de Eucharista)

These opening words of Pope John Paul II in Ecclesia de Eucharista

stand true for the Jesus Youth movement. Wherever Jesus Youth
Pilgrimage of Faith ’05 come together, for retreats, initial encounter programmes, reach
A Jesus Y outh Jour
Youth ney of Faith in
Journey out programmes, trainings or talent ministries, the Eucharist
the W ake of W
Wake orld Y
World outh Day 2005
Youth always takes centre stage. The adoration of the Blessed
Sacrament invariably becomes the high point of every
The first ever extensive Jesus Youth programme – a source of healing and transformation in the lives
Pilgrimage of its kind, ‘Pilgrimage of of thousands of youth. Moreover, any Jesus Youth would gladly
Faith 2005’ offers you 3 different recount at least one inspiring experience about the power of the
options to choose from. Eucharist in his/her life.
Option 1 - Ger many
Germany In this context, the Year of the Eucharist, takes on an added
• Youth Arise International Festival significance for the entire movement, especially in the light of
(Aug.11 - 14) the Pope’s prediction in his apostolic letter Spiritus et Sponsa
• Jesus Youth International Gathering that a “Eucharistic spirituality” would develop within the Church.
(Aug.15 -16) The entire Jesus Youth movement is, in a sense, readying itself
• World Youth Day Celebrations to embrace this Eucharistic spirituality – on a personal as well
(Aug.16 - 21) as a community level. This becomes manifest in two ways -
through a deepening of the Eucharistic experience among those
Option 2 - Ger many
many,, Italy
Germany in the movement, and through a rekindling of the Eucharistic
• Option 1+Pilgrimage to Rome ‘amazement’ among the youth all over the world. Already Jesus Youth
The two alternate dates you can in India have launched the National Eucharistic Project 2005 – a unique
choose for your Rome pilgrimage are initiative that focuses on setting up 24 - hour Eucharistic adoration centres
either (Aug. 7 - 11) or ( Aug. 21 - 25) in all the states of India. The initiative involves Jesus Youth full-time
volunteers, the laity, and the local priests and bishops. In addition, a host of
Option 3 - Ger many
many,, Italy
Germany Italy,, France
programmes to motivate young people to “make contact with the wellspring of
• Option 1 & 2+ Pilgrimage to France
grace” are under way.
Germany ( Aug. 11 - 21) France ( Aug.
21 - 25) Rome ( Aug. 25 - 29) The focus on the power of the Eucharist will also be the right response for Jesus Youth
amidst a world of calamities, terror, war and violence, enabling young people to be “witnesses
of hope” for everyone. As the guidelines of the Congregation of Divine Worship puts it : “If the fruit of
this year were only to revitalize in all the Christian communities the celebration of the Sunday Mass
and to increase Eucharistic adoration outside of the Mass, this year of grace would have attained a
significant result.”
Inside Stuff
! Eucharistic Spirituality
“ The Eucharist… Here the Lord gives Himself
completely without holding back. The very
thought lifts us up and brings an awesome
“As a non-Catholic, the teaching on the Holy
Eucharist had a tremendous impact on me.
During the Eucharistic celebration I now see the Almighty God
! Heart Talk awareness of His abundant love. We come from taking the form of ordinary bread so that we can hold Him in
a non-Christian background, and consider our hearts. I find His most intimate love here, when He comes
! Jesus Youth Lifestyle ourselves immensely blessed. The Lord came to meet me personally. Even though I used to go to Mass
into our lives to reveal Himself as the one true everyday, I had to wait for eight years, until my first Holy
! Being Jesus Youth God, and later blessed us with His sacraments. Communion last May, to receive him. Now the house where I

! JY Int’l Team Meeting

“
Today we realize the truth of what the Catechism
says: “ The Eucharist is the source and summit
“
stay in Santvana Community has perpetual Eucharistic
Adoration every day of the year! Our God is such a faithful
of the Christian life. (CCC1324) God! All praise and glory be to Him!
! Ripples of the Spirit Binu Ashokan & Neethu - An active Jesus Youth Jini Lobo - An electrical engineer, Jini was active in the JY
couple, they are settled in Mumbai, India. Binu, campus ministry. She and her husband Naveen Lobo are
! Global Newswatch an engineer working in a software consultancy, missionaries in the Santvana Community in Agra, India.
is also the co-ordinator of JY Mumbai.
contd. on page 3 !
1
 were forced to shift the venue of the WYD Night Vigil to Marienfeld within
Cologne. Though the team was disappointed at first, they later discovered
that the main stage at the new venue was exactly where a monastery of
cloistered monks stood four hundred years ago! Here was an anointed place,
where the canticles of devout monks rang out six times a day. Cardinal Meisner
wondered whether the simple monks had ever imagined that their prayers
would draw one million young worshippers from all over the world four centuries
later. Isn’t it amazing to think that even the tiniest prayer has its place in God’s
The XX World Youth Day and the International Jesus Youth heart where it patiently waits for His time? And isn’t there a lesson in this for us
Gathering are drawing near. With preparations already who are dejected when we don’t get immediate results in our ministries?
under way, it has been a time of unprecedented travelling
The third encounter was a recent meeting with a US Ambassador. He
for me. And often, uncomfortably long periods away from
enthusiastically enquired about our work in Asia and its scope. And the man
my family. Amidst the hectic schedules, countless meetings and inspiring
who held one of the highest diplomatic offices representing the most powerful
events, three extraordinarily enriching encounters come to mind.
nation in the world insisted that we pray together. As we bowed our heads in
It was my first trip to Australia, where a Jesus Youth lifestyle is slowly taking prayer, I thanked God for this man who openly expressed his faith even in his
root. In between a series of Jesus Youth programmes, Fr. John Aravankara, exalted official capacity. How many of us would have the courage to do the
the JY Pastor arranged for us an audience with His Excellency Christopher same?
Prowse, the Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne. The Bishop welcomed us with an
Finally, this has been a tough period for me. When your ministry, actions, plans...
open heart and shared his vision and his personal motto, “Only Jesus”. Then,
your very motives are misunderstood, the only thing to do I discovered, is to
to our amazement, he knelt down and requested us to pray over him for an
cling to Jesus; to focus closely on the Holy face of Jesus instead of dwelling
infilling of the Holy Spirit. Later, he put our heads close together and made a
on the endless accusations. I also experienced the love of many in the Jesus
touching prayer for the unity of the Church. It was an encounter that left us
Youth family who prayed for me; prayers that helped me smile at the accusations
more humbled than ever, reminding us of the great responsibility of Jesus
and say with St. Paul: “Who can separate me from the love of Christ?”
Youth to work for the unity of the Church.
Two weeks later, we were in Cologne, surrounded by some of the most revered
cardinals and ecclesial figures, at the WYD preparatory meeting. His Eminence Manoj Sunny
Cardinal Joachim Meisner, the Archbishop of Cologne, spoke about how they Co-ordinator, Jesus Youth International Team

Message
I am pleased to know about Jesus Youth International and very happy that our Indian youth are becoming messengers of the Good News to
people in other countries also. I have been very impressed by their love for God and His Church, their commitment to evangelization and
their zeal and generosity in the service of others, particularly in the area of religion and spirituality. It is a source of great hope for the Church
in India and for the Universal Church.
I wish Jesus Youth International all the best, and pray that the Spirit of God may take them to greater heights in the service of God and His
people and enable them to witness to the bountiful love of God.
Most Rev. Vincent M. Concessao, Archbishop of Delhi

f o r a l i f e t i m e Jesus Youth - as I see them

R e f l e c t i o n s o n t h e d e f i n i n g c h a r a c t e r i s t i c s o f J e s u s Yo u t h

My initiation into the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the year 1976 was an share the Good News of liberation in and through Jesus Christ to everyone
experience of great comfort and healing. The deep awareness and conviction who comes their way.
that Jesus is Lord and Saviour led me to bring others into the Renewal. Young
as I was, I joined other committed youngsters, and together we reached out to Holiness has become a prime objective for Jesus Youth. With a steady and
the youth in Bombay. committed prayer life, study and reflection of the Word of God and regular
reception of the Holy Sacraments, they keep growing, carefully confronting
Even before Jesus Youth got its name, there was among its members, a close- their failings and areas of sin.
knit fellowship. We also had powerful outreach programmes. In a place like
Bombay, where everyone is on his own, the fellowship and mutual sense of There is something graceful one can sense immediately on meeting a Jesus
belonging was a powerful factor in the prayer groups. People cared for one Youth. The other day two of us were riding a two-wheeler and we stopped a
another selflessly. Members had the freedom to share their struggles and also young man to ask for directions. And as we proceeded, my friend commented,
to seek help. I have many refreshing memories of that time. “That chap is either a Jesus Youth or a seminarian.” The next day we met the
young man again in church, and learnt that he was a seminarian Jesus Youth!
Another aspect that struck me was the great respect they had for one another. The smile, serenity and helpful attitude...are always to be seen in Jesus Youth.
There were hardly any complaints about misconduct within the youth groups.
The youth were responsible to themselves. As Jesus Youth began to grow in As a youth animator, I am proud of all the Jesus Youth whom I know. They are
number, we ourselves couldn’t help wondering how this healthy relationship truly the promise of the Church and of the nation!
between young men and women was maintained. The only answer we arrived
at was that since the Holy Spirit changes a person from within, he naturally Baby Chacko
becomes responsible to himself. And when there were occasional instances of A former Air Force personnel, he is a full-time itinerant
errant behaviour, they were dealt with in a responsible and effective manner. missionary and one of the most senior JY animators.
Fondly known as Babychayan, he has played a
An important dimension of this youth initiative is that everyone involved is
significant role in shaping JY leaders, specially the
evangelistic by conviction. They are always on the look out for opportunities to
JY Full Time Volunteers.

2
 being jesus youth
Daring to choose Jesus.
There I attended my power of Jesus present in the just three days a week, my mother
first retreat. After I Eucharist, that I used to touch my reminded me that we didn’t have any
arrived in the US, friends and receive Jesus hugs from money to give as dowry. I assured
my relationship with them when they had received her that God would not put to shame
Jesus, Mother Mary communion! those who trusted in Him. Sure
and the Catholic enough, God brought Sunil into my
NT: How did your families react to
Church became life. It was really His plan that I didn’t
this change of faith?
strong, and God has study any further. He knew where I
Sindhu: My family had no problem
been leading me ever was headed. When I got married I
believing in Jesus as one among
since. moved to America, where only an
many other gods. But sparks did fly,
MBBS Degree is recognised.
Sunil Nadarajan and Dr. Sindhu NT: Sindhu, how did you become a like when there were rumours that I
Subhadra have come a long way in Jesus Youth? had got baptized. But they were NT: How did God lead you to
their walk of faith. Both of them hail Sindhu: During my third year at pacified when I promised them that I marriage? What were you looking
from Hindu families. Sunil is a Kottayam Medical College, I met two would not receive baptism without for in your partner?
computer engineer based in Chicago, students Sini and Rani who were very their consent (and I did keep my Sindhu: I was like any other girl. Even
where they live with their two children, different from others; they were so word). after coming to Christ, I had my own
Rose and John Paul. Sindhu, a loving and pleasant. I learnt that they dreams and expectations of the man
Sunil: My family accepted my change.
stalwart of the JY Pro-life movement, were Jesus Youth. Sini and I became I’d marry. I gave Jesus a list of the
However, when we go for family
got involved in Jesus Youth while in close friends. She used to talk about qualities I wanted in my partner and
functions and so on, we are seen as
Medical School. The two of them are Jesus. I was really amazed at her said, “Here now, make my partner”.
Christian converts. We don’t get the
very active in the Jesus Youth of relationship with Him. One day she Gently Jesus asked me, “Which of
kind of appreciation that others get.
America. Some excerpts from an told me about a campus meet she these qualities are required for the
But then that is part of the price.
interview. had attended, and of her devotion to Kingdom of God?” I realized my folly
the Eucharist and the Rosary. That NT: Sindhu, while in Kerala, you and tore up the list. Three years later
Newsletter Team: Tell us about your when I had to take a decision
night when I got to my room, I invited played a vital role in the Jesus Youth
initial experience with the Lord. regarding my marriage, I made
Jesus into my life. It was 31st July Pro-life ministry. Tell us about it.
Sindhu: I was very religious and had another list with just three qualities.
1993. I then began reading the Bible Sindhu: It was tough. Initially I had a
a strong faith in God even as a child. He should be a Catholic, be devoted
not just for information, but for life. lot of intellectual doubts, but I got the
My father was a Hindu priest and I to Our Lady and should love God
About the same time I heard of conviction that life is to be protected.
used to help him with pujas and other more than he loved me. When I first
the conversion of two notorious When, as a student I was posted in
rituals. I studied in a Catholic school, met Sunil I was a bit apprehensive.
characters in the campus, Dr. Mathew abortion clinics, I insisted that I
but it was from my mother that I But then, we discussed every aspect
(now studying for priesthood) and wouldn’t do abortions, assist in
received the first seeds of Christian of our lives and I was really amazed
Dr. Julio (presently an animator, JY contraceptive surgeries or propagate
faith. She used to frequent St. by his love for the Church and the
UK). Their conversion brought them. I had arguments and
Anthony’s Church for the Novena. Eucharist. He even had more insights
tremendous changes in the campus. disagreements with my professors
Gradually, her conviction that we than me on pro-life.
I went to the Jesus Youth prayer group and pro-abortion colleagues. My
would receive whatever we ask of
to find out what had caused them to professors even threatened to
St. Anthony in faith, sank into my Sunil: An introvert by nature, and
change. Gradually, with the fellowship withhold my degree, but it was really
heart. Thus, with the desire to excel being very possessive it would have
and love I received from the Jesus worth it. We managed to dissuade
in my studies, I also started going for been very difficult for me to accept
Youth there, I too adopted a Jesus- many who came to these clinics for
the Novena. It was during the course someone as outgoing, and active in
centred lifestyle. I was drawn to Jesus abortions. It was rewarding when we
of these visits that I had my initial the ministry as Sindhu. But during
in the Eucharist, and had a deep got invited to the baptism and
exposure to the Christian faith. that initial period in Chicago, God
desire to receive Jesus in the bir thday celebrations of such
moulded me till I was ready to accept
Sunil: I wasn’t a Jesus Youth as a sacrament. I used to go for Mass children. The Pro-life ministry started
anyone He wanted me to marry.
student in TKM Engineering College. every day and it hurt when I could not off with awareness programmes. We
When we first met, she seemed rather
But it was there that I learnt to pray physically receive Him. I knew that then began to train people, release
disinterested. But during the course
the Rosary. I attended the last couple potassium cyanide was so potent that brochures, pamphlets, etc. After I got
of our discussion she lit up when I
of Jesus Youth prayer meetings a drop of it could cause instant death. my medical degree, instead of opting
spoke of my priorities and my faith.
before I finished my course. I didn’t I thought to myself that the Lord Jesus for post graduation, I chose to work
give my life to Christ then, but was was so much more potent that surely part time for three years, so that I NT: Speaking of priorities, how do
convinced that Jesus is the only He could permeate every cell of a could be more involved in the ministry. you balance your career, your
Saviour. When I got a job in Mumbai, person’s body. So great was my It was a tough decision, but I had family, and your work in the
my room mates were Jesus Youth. longing and such was my faith in the prayed over it. Seeing that I worked ministry?
contd. on page 4 !
contd. from page 1 !

“ With my Protestant background, I had never encountered the Blessed

Sacrament or celebrated Holy Mass. It was when I became a part of the
Jesus Youth Prayer group in TKM Engineering College that I yearned to
“ Even before I was baptized into the Catholic Church, I experienced the
crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus in the Eucharist during a retreat. And
for many years, though I used to go for Mass everyday, one of the saddest
understand the mystery of the Holy Eucharist. And even though I regularly things in my life was that I couldn’t receive Holy Communion. And finally
went for Eucharistic adoration, there were doubts in my mind. Then one after God gave me the opportunity to be baptized and receive Jesus, I was
week I happened to spend an extraordinarily long time before the Eucharist. so overjoyed that I spent three days before the Eucharist in fasting and
It was a glorious experience. I did not talk to Jesus. Neither did He talk to prayer. And God was so good to me that he gave me a life partner, Leena “
“
me. Yet His love was flowing and His presence was unmistakable. Even who also came from a non-Christian background with a deep Eucharistic
today it is hard to explain, but I knew it in my heart. Later the abundant experience like mine.Today, the Holy Eucharist is our source of strength.
peace and joy in my heart confirmed the experience.
Ratnakaran Stephen & Leena - Active leaders of JY Australia, Steve &
Roshan Thomas - A mechanical engineer by profession, Roshan is currently Leena are professionals settled in Sydney.
working in Chennai, India.
3
 an experience of the Jesus Youth
lifestyle. Besides this, projects
like Pro-life Exhibitions, Outreach
programmes and round the clock
adoration of the Eucharist were key
initiatives of the Jesus Youth of Delhi
in 2004.
The Jesus Youth of Delhi is mainly a
floating population. After getting a God
experience in Delhi, many of these

Reviving Delhi
Ripples of the Spirit set apart from their jobs to visit
parishes, campuses, prayer groups
youth move to other parts of the world
for better career prospects or
educational purposes, and wherever
they go, they carry with them this zeal
It was in 1993 that a few Jesus Youth evangelization of India. Today Jesus and communities, to share their God for evangelization. During one of the
from Kerala who arrived in the city of Youth reaches out to the youth of Delhi experience, and so help youth to commissioning ceremonies of the full-
Delhi in search of career prospects through diverse ministries like invite Jesus into their lives. In August timers, His Grace, Archbishop Vincent
began to gather together to share, Intercession, Outreach, Nurses, Pro- 2004, the seventh batch of volunteers M. Concessao remarked, “This trend,
intercede and pray. By 1994, besides life, Couples, Music and Audio Visual. was commissioned and they are now of training young people for
serving in different parts of the city. evangelization will certainly help them
Over the last seven years, 140 become more deeply aware of their
volunteers have come forward in all. mission and make the Church truly an
In November 2004, the youth retreat evangelizing Church, as it should be”.
‘Revival’ and a concert, animated and Let us pray that the ripples of the Holy
performed by Rexband drew quite a Spirit will continue to transform the city
number of fresh youth and gave them of Delhi.

a few one-day programmes, a regular North Indian Evangelization Training

intercession every Thursday was P ro g r a m m e ( N E T ) i n H i n d i ,
initiated in the Cathedral building. In Discipleship Training Programme
1997, a mega youth conference in (DTP) in English, Nurses’ gathering,
English - Youth Fest ’97 - animated by and formation programmes are
Rexband became the first event to conducted every year.
reach out to the general youth of Delhi.
The vastness of the city, the diverse
Through music, skits and testimonies,
occupations and the hectic lifestyle
this programme helped many
of the youth, called for a setting apart
youngsters to make a choice for
of more time, and greater involvement
Jesus. Slowly the Jesus Youth lifestyle
from the Jesus Youth. The Delhi Jesus
challenged some of the young people
Youth Volunteers responded to this
of India’s capital city to set apart time
need in the year 1998. 20 young
from their busy schedules for the Lord.
people came forward, for a month’s
Rosenet (a Rosary campaign), was
intensive training. Then, over the next
launched in 1998, and one million
year they spent the time they could
Rosaries were prayed for the

contd. from page 3 ! see the way God blesses my family Sunil: We have received so much, Sunil, Sindhu and God. It is God who
Sunil: The software industry is highly and my career. this choice is only natural. One sees us through all our trials. We
lucrative, with attractive incentives consideration was the ministry. If it always pray to Our Lady for strength,
NT: Inspite of your many financial had to grow, someone had to pay the
and perks. I began my career with a wisdom and courage to run our family,
commitments why do you persist price. So many people had invested
desire to make money. When I first and we pray the rosary often. The
in giving tithes ? their time, talent and energy in
came over to the US, I used to work binding force in our marriage is the
Sunil: Whatever we have is given to forming us. We felt it only right to do
long hours. Several months later, on Eucharist. One decision we took after
us by God. He has been very faithful the same. The other thing was family.
reflection, I realised that God hadn’t our marriage was to go for Holy Mass
to our needs. So we use whatever When we enter into marriage, we are
brought me here just to earn money. I together and pray together everyday,
we have for His glory. We are entrusted with the family. Money can no matter what. The Eucharist is what
decided to give first priority to God, accountable to God for the way we never buy the love and care that we sustains our marriage. And when we
and began to set apart time for the spend the money He has given us. alone can give our children, In the have disagreements, we resolve them
ministry. Ever since, I have been American context, with both parents
Sindhu: One of the first things I learnt at the earliest. We are not just husband
blessed in everything I do. Today I working, it is virtually impossible to and wife, but also each others’
earn ten times more than what I had was tithing which I have been give attention to the children. So we
practising right from my early days guardian angels.
set my eyes on initially. As Project are very clear about our priorities.
Leader, I am entrusted with some of in Jesus Youth. God slowly taught me God comes first, the family next and NT: What message would you like
the toughest projects, for they know I that tithing is not to be limited to everything else only after that. It’s not to give Jesus Youth the world over?
money, but should include our time, that she won’t ever take up a career. Sunil: Live a Christian life. This is the
can be depended on. Sometimes
our talents, in fact everything we When in time she does, it will be for greatest challenge for us in today’s
it is tough and I still work 17 hours
have. We are accountable to God for service, not money. world.
occasionally, but only when I need to
every resource that he has given us.
meet a deadline so that I can take a NT: What makes your marriage Sindhu: Let God lead you. Do not hold
week off to be present at some JY NT: It seems rather crazy that work? back anything. Give yourselves fully
programme. At such times, Sindhu is Sindhu, a qualified doctor, doesn’t Sunil & Sindhu: There are three to Him. Love Him with all your strength,
very supportive. And of course I can work. Why such a choice? persons involved in our marriage. all your energy, all your life.

4
Global
GlobalNewswatch
Newswatch and their parish priest are working
hard to build a strong fellowship
among the youth in their parish.

USA participants. Ms. Fiona Mansford,

Rev. Fr. Sebastian Arikat (Pastor, JYI
Kuwait
and JYUK) and Dr. Julio were the Though small in number, the
One-Day Programmes preachers. committed JY in Kuwait are growing
A one-day retreat for the youth was constants. The experiences shared by
held on 23 rd October 2004 at Oman steadily through their monthly
gatherings, weekly intercessions,
the volunteers about their journey with
Jesus were truly motivating for the
Baltimore, Maryland. The retreat daily chain fasting, cell groups, etc.
focused on Christian commitment. teenagers. The par ticipants left
World Youth Day Preparations The monthly chain prayer starts on the
Separate sessions were held for the Pakshikare with great zeal and
The Jesus Youth of Oman are
youth and the younger children. On enthusiasm to respond to Jesus’ call
preparing to join youth from all over
13th November 2004, several youth in their lives.
the globe at the World Youth Day
from the Boston, Massachusetts area pilgrimage to be held in Cologne in
gathered for a one-day retreat, during Sunrise 2004 - Rajasthan
August 2005. A WYD Oman Team has
which they learned more about God’s 13th to 16th Nov. 2004 were days of
been formed under the guidance of
love, and were challenged to take up tremendous grace, when 865 youth
Fr. Chacko Mannisseril, with the main
active roles in the Church. from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and
goal of making the youth of Oman
Gujarat gathered under one roof to
aware of WYD, and to prepare them
The Jesus Youth in the East coast for this pilgrimage. For this purpose, last Thursday of every month at 6 a.m.
gathered for their bimonthly meeting a colourful audiovisual presentation and continues till 6 a.m. of the next
on 20th November 2004. The theme has been prepared, and has been day i.e. Friday. It began with 25
of the Holy Eucharist was meditated shown in the various communities and persons and now has 130 prayer
upon, guided by Brother Isaac, a parishes. The team members are warriors who pray in their homes for
Franciscan who shared his insights offering daily Mass for the intentions at least one hour during this time. The
on seeing Jesus in the Eucharist and exalt the Risen Lord and bask in His
of the WYD. So also, Mass is being first monthly Newsletter for JY Kuwait-
in the people around us, especially abiding peace and joy at St. Anselm’s
offered for the WYD once a month in ‘Streams’ was released during the
the disadvantaged. Sr. Sec. School, Ajmer. The programme
Onam celebrations on 27th August based on the theme ‘Rise to touch the
UK 2004. A spiritual book club has also
started functioning for the JY
Son’ was inaugurated by Rt. Rev.
Ignatius Menezes, Bishop of Ajmer-
members from November 2004 Jaipur Diocese. The resource persons
Revival in London onwards. As part of the Christmas
A new wave of the Holy Spirit led to celebrations, a spiritual crib was
many programmes being planned made with prayers, charitable works,
and held in London. As part of the JY jail and hospital visits etc., throughout
UK activities in the South Zone, the the Advent Season. Carols were also
Core Group of all the prayer groups all the parishes of Oman. The finance performed in all the JY houses in
in London organised a one-day wing of the team is striving to make Kuwait.
programme at Sts. Anselm and this pilgrimage economical and to
Cecilia Catholic Church, Holborn
(Central London), on 25th September
work out projects for supporting the
WYD participants. The JY Intercession
India
2004. More than 40 persons attended ministry is also initiating chain Rosary
Teens 2004 - Mangalore for the programme included Br. Fritz
and intercession for the WYD. They
‘Teens 2004 - A National Festival for Mascarenhas, Director of Institute for
also plan to organize adoration of the
Teenagers’ was celebrated from Oct. World Evangelization (ICPE), Rev.
Blessed Sacrament for the same
22nd to 24th at Pakshikare, Mangalore. Fr. Dheeraj Sabu, IMS, member of the
intention.
National Service Team and founder of
the Santvana Community, and Naveen
Bethel Meet 2004, Ghala
Lobo from the Santvana Community.
A two-day retreat for JY beginners
The powerful input sessions enabled
was organized by the JY in Ghala on
the participants to realize the immense
14th and 15th Oct. 2004 at Ghala. The
love of God the Father. The music
the programme. The participants programme began with praise and
worship, followed by a talk by Rev. ministry from Karnataka added vitality
were of a multi-cultural group, with to the whole programme.
people from UK, India, Pakistan and Fr. Chacko Mannisseril, Parish Priest,
Russia. The main resource person for Holy Spirit Church Ghala. This was
followed by various talks interspersed 545 teenagers from Karnataka, Tamil Golgotha 2004 - Nagpur
the day was Mr. James Parker, ‘Golgotha 2004’ was organised and
with many prayer and sharing Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh
International Youth Minister and conducted by the Jesus Youth in
sessions. The retreat helped the youth participated in this programme.
member of the CCR of UK, along with Nagpur under the guidance of Rev.
to recommit their lives to Christ, and Through the sessions of Dr. Edward
Ms. Kristina Cooper, Editor of the Fr. George Kumbilumootil OP for the
encouraged them to work for the Lord Edezhath, Mr. Jose Sebastian, Adv.
Good News Magazine, a CCR-UK states of Maharashtra and Gujarat and
as well as to set aside more time for Raiju Varghese and Br. Simon, the
publication. A Youth Meet was also
Him in personal prayer, scripture participants were given a glimpse of other areas of Central India. Over 500
held for the JY in London at Sts. Mary
reading, etc. an ideal lifestyle for the new youth attended this convention held
and Ethelburga Church, Barking, on
generation, based on Jesus Youth from 11 th to 15 th Nov 2004. The
18 th Dec. 2004. There were forty
Salalah Outreach inaugural Mass which was celebrated
On 26th November 2004, a team of 8 by Most Rev. Edwin Colaco, Bishop
members reached out to the parish of Amravati, was followed by
of Salalah, which is 1000 kms away the for mal welcome ceremony
from Muscat. As a result, a small presided over by Most Rev. Abraham
group was formed despite language Viruthakulangara, Archbishop of
barriers, with youth from different Nagpur. The sessions of this
communities. These young people programme were based on the

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 JY Participation at ‘Kairos 2004’ 600 people participated in this Melbourne, on 11 th and 12 th Dec.
750 Jesus Youth participated in the celebration at Marymount Chapel. The 2004. The aim of the retreat was to
National Youth Convention - ‘Kairos presence of Rev. Fr. Thomas and Rev. motivate them to live fuller family lives
2004’, organised by the National Fr. Benny was a blessing to all
Catholic Charismatic Youth Council at present.
Chennai from 27th to 30th Dec. 2004.
Besides leading a day’s music and Workers’ Meet 2004
animating a Taize adoration, Rexband On 24th Oct. 2004, 200 youth working
also performed a live show for around in various companies and firms in
passionate love of God revealed at 5000 participants. Singapore got together for the annual
one-day event of the Workers’ Ministry
Golgotha. Skits and video sessions
added colour to the convention. The UAE -‘Snehapravaham’. The meet based
programme ended with Holy Mass rooted in the Lord. As the resource
celebrated by Most Rev. Gerald Couples’ Cell Gathering persons shared experiences from
Almeida, Bishop of Jabalpur, during The Couples’ Ministry in Sharjah their lives and challenged the
which the participants were organized a Couples’ Cell gathering participants, they received a deeper
commissioned to take a firm decision at the Sharjah National Park on 8th conviction to live and witness to Him
to spread the Good News in their October 2004. Thirty-two couples in their daily lives.
respective life situations. along with their families took part in
this gathering. These couples will be General Youth Programme
Campus on Fire - Kerala on the theme of God’s love was held This was a three - hour programme
‘Campus on Fire’, an initial level at the Boonlay Church Auditorium, targeting the Australian youth on 13th
programme for campus youth, was Singapore. The main resource person December 2004 at St. Gerard’s
conducted by the JY India Campus for the meet was Rev. Fr. George Church, Melbourne. There were 15
Ministry in five different districts of Kumbilumoottil OP (Professor, Nagpur participants. The core message of the
Kerala in October. The programme, Seminary, India).
which was held in Ernakulam,
Kottayam, Muvattupuzha, Puthukkad First Liners’ Leadership
and Koothuparambu was attended by Training Programme
1370 students in all. The theme of the gathering on the first Thursday of Fifty active JY with potential for
programme was “Jesus Christ is the each month for prayer and fellowship. leadership roles in the future, took part
same yesterday, today, and forever” in a two-day leadership training
Leaders’ Gathering programme at the Youth Centre,
(Heb:13-8). The main objective of
About forty active JY leaders got Hougang, Sinagpore. The theme of programme was on enjoying life in its
the programme was to lead the
together on 2nd and 3rd December the programme was ‘Focused only on fullness with Christ. C.C. Joseph and
youngsters to encounter God in a new
2004 for prayer and reflection. the Lord’. The main resource persons Manoj Sunny shared their God
way, and to instill in them a thirst for
the Kingdom of God. for the programme were Mr. Manoj experience. The programme ended
Sunny and Mr. C.C. Joseph, former with adoration.
Programmes in West Bengal JY India Co-ordinator.
A three-day retreat was held in Bandel JY Nurses’ Gathering
Parish, Hooghly, West Bengal, from Rev. Fr. Thomas Mannarakath, who A gathering of twenty-four nurses,
11th to 13th November 2004. There was the spiritual director of the Jesus was held on 24th December 2004 at
were about 250 participants. Rev. Youth since it’s beginning in St. Joseph Malachite Catholic Church,
Fr. Tom Polackal SDB (Pastor of JY Singapore, has been Melbourne. This programme led
Bangalore) and his team conducted transferred. We gratefully the participants to deepen their
the retreat. A two-day training Singapore acknowledge the
service he has rendered
relationship with the Lord and to
initiate three prayer groups. The
to JY Singapore and participants were motivated by the life
JY Representation in also pray that God may experiences of the resource persons.
Diocesan activities bless his future ministry. The presence of several Jesus Youth
JY representatives participated members and elders was inspiring.
in the Migration Sunday Mass and
celebrations organised by the
Australia
Archdiocesan Commission for Migrant
A co-ordinating team for JY Australia Tsunami relief efforts
and Itinerant People (ACMI), held at
programme for forty participants was was newly formed in December 2004.
St. Michael’s Church on 19th Sept. Jesus Youth all over the world got
also held in the same place from The new team under the pastoral
2004. 30 representatives from all the together to intercede for those
14th to 15th November 2004. Various guidance of Rev. Fr. John Aravankara,
JY ministries in Singapore also took affected by the tsunami on 14 th
training modules were introduced has Rajesh T. George as the
part in the SACCRE Plenary organised January 2005, through adoration,
by the Singapore Archdiocesan Mass and chain prayers. Jesus
Catholic Charismatic Renewal.
Youth members, especially those
SACCRE Spiritual Director Rev. William
living close to the affected areas,
Goh mentioned the activities of
Jesus Youth in Singapore during his have formed small teams to study
presentation. JY was also represented the places hit by the tsunami in
by 2 persons at the Mission Sunday Kerala and Tamil Nadu and explore
Mass organised by the Archdiocesan Rajesh, Wilson, Steve (Co-ordinator, Sydney) the possibilities of providing
and Fr. John
Commission for Missionary Activity assistance in building homes, in
(ACMA) at the Risen Christ Church, co-ordinator, and Wilson Thomas and rehabilitation activities, childrens’
Topayoh, Sinagpore. Gene Thalappillil as the animators. education, and offering psychological
support and medical help. Let us
Christmas Programme 2004 JY Couples’ Retreat pray for all the victims, especially
during the sessions, and a team was An annual Christmas programme and Twenty-five young couples came
for those who have suffered tragic
formed to co-ordinate prayer groups midnight Mass in Malayalam was together for a JY Couples’ Retreat
losses.
and to initiate other activities. organized by JY Singapore. About at the Yarra Theological Union,
6

‘
 JY Leaders’ Training, Australia Cultural Exchange 2004, India
A training programme for ten young leaders was organised by JY Australia
from 9th to 10th Dec. 2004 at St. Gerard’s Church, Melbourne. The theme of the The Jesus Youth National Team in India organized ‘Cultural Exchange 2004’
programme was ‘Give Him the Best’. The main resource persons for the training from 2nd to 24th October 2004. This programme, which has been held for four
were Mr. Manoj Sunny and Mr. C.C. Joseph, former JY National Co-ordinator consecutive years, is designed to give tribal youth a live-in Catholic faith
(India). The programme helped the participants to renew their commitment experience and an exposure to
and to build a deeper the Jesus Youth life style. This
relationship with the Lord. year there were 329 youth (220
It was also an opportunity boys and 109 girls) from 40
for them to reflect on their dioceses in 17 different states of
lives and to organize their India. The programme which
priorities for the Lord. lasted for 23 days, began with a
The presence of His week-long retreat at the Divine
Excellency Christopher Retreat Centre, Muringoor,
Prowse, Auxiliary Bishop of Kerala. The participants were
Melbourne, motivated all the then sent to stay with Jesus Youth
participants. families for two weeks in the
sixteen different zones of Kerala.
At the end of the programme, Most. Rev. Mar Thomas Chakiath, Auxiliary Bishop of
these youngsters gathered Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese and Episcopal
Cologne Outreach, Germany together for the grand finale -
Advisor of JY Kerala addressing the participants.
A one-day programme was held for German youth of Indian origin on 16th ‘Mahotsav’ which was held from 21 to 24th October at St. Anthony’s School,
st
January 2005 in Cologne. There were about 35 participants. The programme, Kizhakkambalam, Ernakulam. Rev. Fr. Jose Narithookil, Kerala Service Team
which was conducted by the Jesus Youth International Team, was focused on Chairman, inaugurated the grand finale. Mar Thomas Chakiath, Auxiliary Bishop
motivating the young people to recommit their lives to Christ. of Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese, also spent some time with the youngsters
during the programme, and encouraged them with an inspiring message.
‘Cultural Exchange 2004’ concluded with the participants resolving to be true
witnesses of the Lord in their respective places.

Jesus Youth at WYD

Preparatory Meeting
The World Youth Day Preparatory meeting
organised by the Pontifical Council for the
Laity, was held from 6th to 9th January 2005 Nurses’ Meet 2004,
at Kardinal-Schulte-Haus, Bensberg Singapore
Germany. Around 270 representatives of Cardinal Joachim Meisner with Fr. Ajy Nurses’ Meet, an annual one-day event
Mooleparambil CMI and Manoj Sunny.
international eccelesial movements and of the Nurses’ ministry in Singapore, was
Bishops’ Conferences from over 70 countries held on 31st October 2004 at Youth Centre,
attended the meeting. Rev. Fr. Ajy Hougang, Singapore. About 250 nurses
Mooleparambil CMI and Mr. Manoj Sunny, working in the various hospitals across
who were special invitees, represented the Singapore attended the programme. The
Jesus Youth movement at the meeting. The theme of the meet was ‘Ask, Seek, Knock’.
presence of Cardinal Karl Lehmann His Grace Nicholas Chia, Archbishop of Singapore, inaugurated the meet by
(President, Bishops’ Conference of lighting the candle. In his inaugural address the Archbishop explained the
Germany), Cardinal Joachim Meisner difference between a job
At Marienfeld (the venue for WYD night vigil),
(Archbishop of Cologne), and Most Rev. and a ministry and the
where soil from 70 countries has been Stainslav Rylko (President, Pontifical Council importance of taking up
brought to build the Papal altar for the WYD. for the Laity) was indeed encouraging.
nursing as a ministry. Rev.
Fr. George Kumbilumoottil
OP (Professor, Nagpur
JY Eucharistic Screensaver Seminary, India) conducted
the sessions based on the
This being the Year of the Eucharist, Jesus Youth has
launched a screensaver software with 53 different theme. The programme
frames programmed to change every week. It is a closed with the adoration of
collection of Bible passages related to the Eucharist the Blessed Sacrament and
set beautifully against inspiring images. To download, Holy Mass.
log on to www.jesusyouth.org

!! Rexband performing live to a crowd of 5000 at St. Columbas’ School Grounds, New Delhi, India on 16th November 2004.
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 JY Retreat - Toronto, Canada JY International Team in Germany
In October 2004, around 150 youth attended a retreat at St. Don Bosco School,
Toronto, Canada from 8th to 10th Oct. 2004. This was the first major retreat
conducted for Canadian youth of Indian origin. A lively team from Jesus Youth
of America, mainly from Chicago and Detroit facilitated the retreat for
the teenagers. Jesus Youth of Canada and America worked as a team for

Fifteen participants from six countries including four priests came together for
the second Jesus Youth International Team meeting held at the Kolping House,
Schermbeck, Germany from 13 th to 16 th January 2005. Rev. Fr. Ajy
conducting separate sessions for the younger kids. There was even a toddler
Mooleparambil, Parish priest, Ludgerus Parish, Schermbeck, and JYI team
and baby-sitting section taken care of by the JY Canada members and families,
member hosted the meeting. The main topics of discussion included
some of whom were young couples with little ones of their own. True to the spirit
preparations and arrangements for the World Youth Day, as well as the Jesus
of Jesus Youth, members of the JY Canada retreat team were interceding round
Youth International Gathering in Dormagen being held in August 2005 at
the clock, both for those attending and those assisting in the retreat. Many young
Cologne. Participants from each country also presented reports on the current
people were touched by the testimonies and the skits presented by the vibrant
activities and future plans of their respective regions. Also reviewed were
JY America team. JY Canada youth prayer meetings were also initiated in the
past decisions taken, as well as future concerns of Jesus Youth as a whole.
month of November 2004, and are now being held regularly at St. Thomas
Site visits were made during the
Apostolic Church on the first Sunday of every month, and locally in Toronto
course of the meeting to a few
on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.
proposed venues for JYIG and
WYD. The team also conducted a
one-day programme for youth on the
16th in Cologne. The participants
dispersed in joyful anticipation of
reuniting in August.
Lisa Jose, USA

Jesus Youth 2004 – NJ, USA

The first Jesus Youth National
Fellowship Fest, UAE Conference, ‘Jesus Youth 2004’ took
The JY UAE annual gathering ‘Fellowship Fest’ was place from 26th to 29th Dec. 2004 at
held on 2nd December 2004 at St. Francis of Assisi the Archdiocesan Youth Retreat
Church, Jabel Ali. Despite it being a working day, Center of Kearney, New Jersey. An
975 youth gathered for this programme, which was unprecedented 587 people were in
aimed at strengthening the various attendance from numerous states
fellowship groups around the country. Rev. across the United States, as well as
Fr. Joy Menachery, John Fernandes and some regions of Canada. The conference was inaugurated by His Excellency
Regi Sebastian conducted sessions Mar Jacob Angadiath, Bishop of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar diocese of Chicago,
based on the theme of fellowship. who also motivated the participants with his presence throughout the
programme. The theme of the conference was that of WYD 2002, “We Want to
See Jesus”. Based on this, the keynote speakers, including Fr. Roy Kaduppil,
‘Kairos’ Youth Magazine, India Fr. William Halbing and Sr. Marilyn Minter, rallied the crowd with their energy-
Today more than ever, as we are exposed to the dangers of exploitation through
the media, the Kairos magazine is a resourceful response by JY India. ‘Kairos’,
which in Greek means ‘God’s time’ or ‘the time of God’s intervention’, is
published monthly in Malayalam through the efforts of the Jesus Youth in
Kozhikode, Kerala. Apart from articles of
Christian interest, Kairos also publishes
stories of simple people who dare to
filled talks. Another high note of the event was a multimedia concert by the
follow Jesus in their ordinary lives. The
responses of the readers reveal the hope renowned Catholic musician, Sal Solo.
these stories bring to them. This
magazine is currently entering its fourth
Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary,
year of publication. Kudos to Renny
above all women on earth.
Njarakulam (Editor) and the editorial
You are the highest honour of our race!
team! May our prayers support ‘Kairos’
Taught by the Eternal Word,
in serving as a wonderful instrument in
you chose the part that was best.
spreading the Good News.
Help us to follow your example
For subscription details contact :
and hunger for the food
Kairos, Kovoor, Chevayoor P.O.,
of everlasting life.
Kozhikode - 673 017, Kerala, India.
Tel : 91-495-2345375 Amen.
E-mail: rennyjn@yahoo.com
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- 3095859, Fax: +91- 484- 2346084, Email : jyglobal@jesusyouth.org Website : www.jesusyouth.org
Editor-in-charge:Josun Jose. Editorial Team: Shelton Pinheiro, Beena Manoj, Deepa Sabu & Anu Pinheiro, Layout Design:Sanil C.A., Printed by SR Graphics, Kottayam, Ph :+91 481-2301142
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