jesus youth international news letter august 2008

Stopoverin Sydney

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

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

International NewsletterInternational Newsletter

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REXBAND18JY INTERNATIONALANIMATORS’TRAINING

HEART TALK

With the World Youth Day, the Jesus Youth International Gathering, formation of thenew 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 andthe former International Co-ordinator), 3 animators and a Pastor. We have the rightblend of experienced and young leaders in the team, including 4 women and twonon–Indians.

We have George Devassy, a very young and committed man as the new co-ordinator ofJesus Youth. George, who has a Master’s degree in Business Administration, wasworking with an MNC for the last few years, and has recently registered for hisdoctoral studies. His parents have been actively involved in the CCR for years, andtheir home has housed several batches of JY fulltime volunteers. His brother, a formerfulltime volunteer, is completing his seminary formation, and his sister is an activeJesus Youth. From the moment I first met George in Thailand a few years back in hisresidence named ‘Jesus Youth House’, I was struck by his faithfulness to his call andhis commitment, and he soon became a dear brother to me. Looking at him today, Ibelieve 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-ordinatorNavin Thomas is another very committed leader, who after resigning his job had beenworking as a part of the International office, heading different projects like the WYDand Formation programmes, particularly that of the Fulltime Volunteers. I am sure thatthis 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 atthe way the Spirit has been at work, building up the movement, particularly over thepast decade. How things have changed from the time when I had to sell my computerto make one of my first international trips, and the many days when I survived onbread alone, especially while travelling in Europe. What a transformation from the timewhen the first International team was formed and Jesus Youth had a presence in just acouple 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 countryco-ordinators and many other leaders who worked tirelessly to build the movement. Ispecially thank two persons from outside the Jesus Youth, who have played a veryimportant role in making this movement an International one – Msgr. AntonyKollamparampil from Rome and Henry Cappello from USA. Msgr. Antony was pivotal inguiding 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 toknow and work with other international movements. I especially thank all my brothersand sisters for their support and love over the last 6 years. During this period I havestayed 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 Hispower 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 toseeing the same action of the Spirit in the movement in the years to come...

Manoj Sunny

DEAR FRIENDS, INYOUR HOMES, SCHOOLS ANDUNIVERSITIES, IN YOURPLACES OF WORK ANDRECREATION, REMEMBERTHAT YOU ARE A NEWCREATION! AS CHRISTIANSYOU STAND IN THIS WORLDKNOWING THAT GOD HAS AHUMAN FACE - JESUSCHRIST - THE “WAY” WHOSATISFIES ALL HUMANYEARNING, AND THE “LIFE”TO WHICH WE ARE CALLEDTO BEAR WITNESS, WALKINGALWAYS IN HIS LIGHT.

ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESSBENEDICT XVI AT THEWELCOMING CELEBRATIONBY THE YOUNG PEOPLE,Barangaroo, Sydney Harbour,17 July 2008

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As I write my first words after our receiving this responsibility of serving the movement, I would like to start byrequesting your continual intercession for me and for the new team. I pray that the Holy Spirit who has beenguiding 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 thankMother Mary for her powerful intercession. And the fact that the Mighty One is with us reminds me of the wordsof 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 moreand more areas of the world, our missionary zeal will form this movement to be a “Factory of Saints” in thismodern world. We pray together as a team that the Mercy of our Lord may always be with us to help us do ourbest to serve this holy mission for the glory of God.

George DevassyJesus Youth International Co-ordinator

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SEPTEMBER 2008 PAGE 3

A Youth Icon with aDifference“ Pope gets rock star treatment!”screamed The Daily Telegraph as itdescribed the millions of cheering youngpeople who turned up to welcome the HolyFather. The young people knew that theHoly Father desired to be with them somuch that he travelled over nineteen hours- the longest journey in his life - to reachAustralia. The world may not understandwhy millions of young people go gaga overan 81-year old man in a pristine whitecassock and red suede shoes.

Yet the pilgrims knew that he carried amessage for their lives; and that themessage of the Holy Father, unlike thesuperficial exhortations of the worldwould make a real difference to theirlives. “Life is not just a succession ofevents or experiences ...” he declared.“It is a search for the true, the good andthe beautiful. It is to this end that wemake our choices; it is for this that weexercise our freedom; it is in this – intruth, in goodness, and in beauty – thatwe find happiness and joy”.

In Sydney Harbour, in Barangaroo, inRandwick; the pilgrims followed himeverywhere. They carried his pictures,wore T-shirts with images of the Pope andlistened with all their heart as he spoketo him. This excitement opens our eyes tothe beauty of the Church as a family - thePope uniting us as Children of God. Thisalso tears at the root of severalassumptions about young people - thatthey are too enamoured by glamour, thatthey are averse to religion, that they donot care for values or sacrifice and thatthey lack depth in life. If they seem so, itcould only be because our witnessingneeds the power of the Holy Spirit.

One Church. A MillionExpressionsHaving born, grown, lived and prayed inour respective cultural environments,each one of us have come to express ourfaith in ways that we feel are mostnatural. Which is perhaps why we need aplatform like the WYD celebrations toopen our eyes to the diverse expressionsof faith through which the Holy Spiritenriches the Universal Church.

Perhaps these young people themselves, likethe crosses raised high, I mused, are a signunto the world. Their celebrations, laughter,contemplation, passion for the Church, love forthe Pope and desire to set themselves aside forGod are indeed radical challenges to ourruthlessly self-centred world. For the 500 JesusYouth from around the world including youthanimators like me, this gathering was truly anaffirmation of our call to reach out to youth, ajoyous sign that the Church is young andthrobbing, a challenge to be different amidstthis world and a reminder that the Church isbeautiful in its amazing diversity.

The following vignettes that I share with youare neither a comprehensive account nor anorganized report of the event. They are at best,a few scattered reflections on the largestyouth gathering on the planet from theperspective of a Jesus Youth.

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YET THE PILGRIMSKNEW THAT HECARRIED AMESSAGE FORTHEIR LIVES; ANDTHAT THE MESSAGEOF THE HOLYFATHER, UNLIKE THESUPERFICIALEXHORTATIONS OFTHE WORLD WOULDMAKE A REALDIFFERENCE TOTHEIR LIVES.

The pilgrims came to Australia in allsizes and shapes, speaking differentkinds of languages, wearing differenttypes of clothes and even spoutingdifferent kinds of headgear. They camefrom the sweltering tropics and thefreezing poles. Yet beyond the externaldifferences, there is also a diversity inapproach, lifestyle and even inspirituality. Here we find groups thatprefer contemplative prayer and otherswho like the exuberant praise sessions;some who celebrate Holy Mass in theLatin rite and others who celebrateHoly Mass in the oriental rites. TheWYD thus becomes a place where welearn to acknowledge and respect thediversity of our brothers and sistersfrom around the world. It also becomesa place where the ocean of pilgrimsdiscover a deeper unity that transcendsdifferences - the unity that comes fromacknowledging one another asmembers of the body of Christ.

This was evident even during the Way of theCross,as I remember reciting the Holy Rosaryalong with a whole bunch of people that Ididn’t know, coming from differentcountries. It was amazing to see differentpeople with various personalities from diversecultures glorifying God together therebyreaffirming their Catholic identity.

For us who are part of the Jesus Youthmovement, it was also edifying to experiencethe charisms and ministries of many othermovements within the Church. It was a time tomarvel at the beauty of the Holy Spirit at work- to experience how each movement radiates adifferent expression of faith. And how,

“I DISCOVERED THEBEAUTY OF THECATHOLIC CHURCHDURING WYD. OURSOCIETY HASGROWN TO VIEWTHE CHURCH ASDEAD ANDBORING.HOWEVER, WYDPROCLAIMED THISTO BE FALSE.FURTHER, WYDMADE ME REALIZEHOW LITTLE IKNOW ABOUT MYFAITH. NOW I FEELA STRONG URGE TOSTUDY AND LIVEMY FAITH.” SAJENALEXANDER, USA

together, all these movements and individualsbuild the body of Jesus.

A Deeper JourneyVery often, when young people come together,even for the WYD, many are sceptical. Do thesepeople actually come seeking deeper answers?Or is the WYD just another hang out ?

A recent survey conducted by the AustralianCatholic University and Monash Universitystudied the responses of 12,275 registeredEnglish speaking WYD ’08 participants from 164countries. Interestingly, the pilgrims were quiteclear on why they were present there.

“I ENJOYED THEMORNING TALKS ATTHE CATECHESIS BYDIFFERENT BISHOPS,AND THE DOWN TOEARTH APPROACHDISPLAYED DURINGTHE TEACHINGS WASCOMMENDABLE.BEING ABLE TO SEETHE HOLY FATHER ATA CLOSE DISTANCE ISSOMETHING THAT IWILL CHERISH FOR ALONG TIME. I HOPEAND PRAY THAT THEFIRE OF THE WYDWILL CONTINUE TOBURN IN US.”RODNEY MALHIERS,AUSTRALIA

“ONE OF THETHINGS THATTOUCHED ME MOSTDURING WYD, WASWITNESSING ANDEXPERIENCING THELOVE AND UNITYTHAT WAS SHAREDAMONG YOUTHWHO CAME FROMDIFFERENTCOUNTRIES. ITMADE ME REALIZETHAT THIS LOVEAND UNITY TRULYHAS THE POWER TOCHANGE THE FACEOF TOMORROW’SWORLD.”ANIKA MANGALY,CANADA

“THE MOST MEMORABLEEXPERIENCE DURING WYDWAS WHEN I WAS STOPPEDAT ONE OF THE BUSYSTREETS OF SYDNEY BY TWOTEENAGE GIRLS FROM USAWHO TOLD ME THEIR FAITHSTORIES – VERY MOVINGONES INDEED- AND URGEDME TO SHARE MY FAITHSTORY WITH OTHER YOUNGPEOPLE. ‘ONLY JESUS CANHEAL THE BROKEN WORLDWE LIVE IN,’ THEY TOLD ME.THESE TWO GIRLS WERETELLING THEIR FAITH STORYTO HUNDREDS OF OTHERYOUNG PEOPLE ON A ONE TOONE BASIS DURING THEWYD. THEY WERE TRULY ANINSPIRATION.”JOSE MATHEW, UK

IT WAS A TIMETO MARVEL ATTHE BEAUTY OFTHE HOLY SPIRITAT WORK - TOEXPERIENCEHOW EACHMOVEMENTRADIATES ADIFFERENTEXPRESSION OFFAITH.

“It revealed what pilgrims most wantedat WYD ’08 was a spiritual experienceand in that context, to see and listen tothe Holy Father,” said researcher MichaelMason.

This is reflected in the ardent responseof pilgrims to the daily Catechesis whichis the most important part of any WYDpilgrimage. The pilgrims faithfully wokeup early to head for one of the 235Catechesis centres in and around Sydneyand participated actively in theworkshops, music, teachings, confessionand the Holy Eucharist. The catecheses,led by a Cardinal or Bishop, was centredon the WYD theme: “You will receivepower when the Holy Spirit has comeupon you; and you will be mywitnesses”(Acts 1:8). The catecheseswere animated by different groups andmovements, bringing in a unique flavourto each of them. The Jesus Youth alsohad the privilege of animating catechesis


“WORLD YOUTH DAY2008 WAS THE MOSTWONDERFULDISPLAY OF UNITY INTHE CHURCH. ANDJUST BEING THEREAMONG THE YOUNGPEOPLE OF THEWORLD (THEFUTURE OF THECHURCH) WASINSPIRING. DURINGTHE NIGHT VIGIL,JOINING OVER 500THOUSAND YOUNGPEOPLE WITH LITCANDLES, SINGINGAND PRAYINGTOGETHER WITH THEPOPE WILL ALWAYSREMAIN ANUNFORGETTABLEMOMENT.” THOMASJACOB, UAE

“WHAT TOUCHED MEIS THAT EVENTHOUGH IN TODAY’SWORLD WE SEEPEOPLE LIVING FORTHEMSELVES ANDHAVING NO TIME FORGOD, I COULDWITNESS AND MEETSO MANY YOUNGPEOPLE WHO RELATETO JESUS AND WHOCONSIDER HIM ASTHE CENTRE OF THEIRLIVES. DESPITE OURDIFFERENTBACKGROUNDS ANDNATIONALITIES, WEHAD SO MUCH INCOMMON AND SOMUCH TO SHARE. ITWAS DEFINITELYAMAZING.” TITTYTHOMAS, INDIA

“WYD WAS ANIMPORTANT PART OFMY FAITH JOURNEY.IT WAS GREAT TO BEPART OF THISGATHERING THATBROUGHTTOGETHER YOUNGPEOPLE FROM ALLOVER THE WORLDTO CELEBRATE OURCOMMON FAITH. ITGAVE ME ARENEWED HOPEAND PASSION FORTHE CATHOLICCHURCH. I WILLNEVER FORGET THEFRIENDS I MADEFROM ALL OVER THEWORLD AND HOPETO SEE THEM IN2011.” VENETIAPEREIRA, UAE

VERY OFTEN, WHENYOUNG PEOPLE COME

TOGETHER, EVEN FOR THEWYD, MANY ARE

SCEPTICAL. DO THESEPEOPLE ACTUALLY COME

SEEKING DEEPERANSWERS? OR IS THEWYD JUST ANOTHER

HANG OUT ?

for a group of around 900 pilgrims fromacross the world.

The depth and the power of traditionalCatholic prayers like the Stations of theCross were manifested more than ever inSydney, where a very powerful theatricalenactment of the passion of Jesus made aprofound impression on the young people.Where else can one imagine more than amillion young people remainingcontemplative and hushed, tears streamingdown some of their faces?

The young people turned the night vigil atBarangaroo into a celebration like neverbefore. 250,000 of them sang, danced,prayed and sat up through the night, sharingexperiences and making new friends. In themorning, they were all tired and coldphysically, but united and live in faith.

Perhaps the response of young pilgrims toour Catholic roots and prayer should be aneye opener to all of us. May it remind us toavoid stereotyping young people assuperficial and help us expose youth todeeper spiritual journeys that willtransform their lives.

The Spirit of PilgrimageSomehow, the media tend to portray ouryoung people as a pleasure seeking, brandconscious, pampered and ruthlesslysuccess-oriented generation. Yet the WYDproves that young people find joy inmaking sacrifices, can brush aside theeveryday comforts if they find somethingmore precious and will gladly give up theirtime and their energy to make a difference

to the lives of others. Here in Sydneythey were infected by the Spirit ofPilgrimage as they walked on for miles,shared their food, rested on makeshiftbunkers and slept outside in the cold. In alarger sense, for each one of us, the Spiritof Pilgrimage was an acknowledgment toourselves that our life itself is apilgrimage and that we will carry nothingelse other than our love to eternity.

Faith is CoolA monk who makes hip hop music. AnAustralian Idol winner who composes atheme song for a Catholic event. A line ofdesigner lifestyle accessories withCatholic messages. Catholic bands thatplay music that ranges from hard rock topop, fusion, trance and blues. Catholicmusic cafes. Concerts that rock the night.Contemporary dance bands. Christiantattoo artists. All these experiences atthe WYD reveal an interesting insight:there is no better way to reach youngpeople than through their lifestyles.

Finally, the Pope’s message, “The Lord isasking you to be prophets of this new age,messengers of his love, drawing people tothe Father and building a future of hopefor all humanity,” speaks to each one ofus, offering us a larger perspective of ourministries in different movements anddifferent organizations within the Church.

DR. KOCHURANI JOSEPHA Jesus Youth animator and Professorof Economics in Bharat MathaCollege, Cochin, she is a formerVice-President of the CatholicCouncil of India.

“WYD FOR ME, WAS STANDING ON TOP OF A RUBBISH BIN OVERLOOKING THE CROWD ATBARANGAROO, WATCHING AS THOUSANDS SUDDENLY RAN TOWARDS THE ROAD SETASIDE FOR THE POPE TO PASS IN HIS POPEMOBILE, WATCHING AS THEY SCRAMBLED ONONE ANOTHER’S SHOULDERS, WANTING TO CATCH THE SLIGHTEST OF GLIMPSES, WHILST ITHOUGHT TO MYSELF, “AND I THOUGHT THEY SAID THAT RELIGION WAS DEAD.” IT WASSEEING OUR HOLY FATHER KISS THE FOREHEADS OF SEVERAL BABIES, A SIGHT WHICHUNITED OUR RICH HISTORICAL TRADITIONS WITH THE INNOCENCE OF OUR FUTURE. WYDASSURED ME THAT AS LONG AS THE HUMAN SPIRIT BELIEVED IN THE PROMISES OFPRAYER, THERE WAS STILL HOPE.” MARYANNE MUKKATTU, AUSTRALIA

“World Youth Dayshave come tostay.” This wasone of theremarks made byCardinal GeorgePell of Sydney atthe conclusion ofWYD ’08. Thewhole Church withits head – thePope - waspresent in Sydney;not only youth but

middle aged and old people, children,religious, priests and Bishops. I wasblessed to be part of this wonderfulevent.

As someone correctly remarked, itwas a ‘whole package’. A package ofspirituality, culture, catechesis,entertainment, travelling, eating, andabove all fellowship. There was timefor everything. Especially remarkablewas the Stations of the Cross, theNight Vigil and the Concluding Mass.Thousands of young people who areused to being boisterous, could keeppin drop silence during the NightVigil and during the Holy Mass as theHoly Father spoke. I was alsooverwhelmed by the hospitality of theAustralians and the meticulousarrangments.

The Jesus Youth delegation alsocontributed much, as it was vibrant withits animation of catecheses and Masses,Rexband concerts, etc. I was very happyto see our Indian young people do greatthings.”

MOST REV. ABRAHAMVIRUTHAKULANGARA,Archbishop of Nagpur, India

“IT WAS A WONDERFULEXPERIENCE SO SEEYOUNG PEOPLE FROMDIFFERENT NATIONSGATHERED TOGETHER TOPRAISE AND WORSHIP THEETERNAL FATHER. ITINVOKED IN ME A NEWLOVE AND DESIRE FOR THECATHOLIC CHURCH.” ELIZAZACHARIAS. IRELAND

“IT WAS INDEED ANHONOUR TOEXPERIENCE JESUSNOT JUST IN THEMIDST OF 2 OR 3PEOPLE BUT22,00,000 FELLOWCHRISTIAN YOUTH”MARY STANISLAWS,SINGAPORE

“THE WYD THEMEWAS VERY GOOD,BECAUSE IT WASALL ABOUTPOWER,INSPIRATION ANDAWAKENING -TYPICALLYYOUTHFULTHOUGHTS.” ANU,SWITZERLAND

IN A LARGER SENSE,FOR EACH ONE OF US,THE SPIRIT OFPILGRIMAGE WAS ANACKNOWLEDGMENTTO OURSELVES THATOUR LIFE ITSELF IS APILGRIMAGE AND THATWE WILL CARRYNOTHING ELSE OTHERTHAN OUR LOVE TOETERNITY.

This World Youth Day, Jesus Youth movement was entrusted withthe privilege of animating over 900 pilgrims from over 25countries who gathered for catechesis in the Parish of Our Lady of

Mount Carmel, Mt. Pritchard. For the movement, this was the second opportunity to animatecatechesis after the WYD in Cologne. The beautiful chapel of our Lady, warm in its woodworkedinteriors offered the perfect environment for the catechesis.

Starting off in a typical Jesus Youth manner, with an action song, the pilgrims quickly gotinto the groove. Each day, the programme included a music session, a time of worship,reconciliation, catechesis from the bishop, and a co-ordinated discussion followed by alively celebration of the Holy Mass. Rexband animated the group with music and actionsongs. With all themes centred on the Holy Spirit, Bishop William Edward Lori from theUnited States spoke on the first day of the Catechesis on how we are called to live in theHoly Spirit. On the second day, Bishop Tria Tirona from the Philippines, took off from whereBishop Edward had stopped and went on to explain how the Holy Spirit is the soul of theChurch. His unique humour often left the audience in splits. Bishop John Mathias from Indiashared his experiences about how evangelization is impossible without the Holy Spirit in hisaddress on the final day of the catechesis. The pilgrims were highly responsive, eager tolearn and full of joy throughout the catechesis. For Jesus Youth it was once again a joyousprivilege to be animating youth from around the world, right in the heart of the Church.

Perhaps for the first time ever, thebeautiful chapel of St. Brigid’s in Miller’sPoint was filled with the strains of theexotic Carnatic and Hindustani music asJesus Youth led three groups of WYDpilgrims - across three consecutivesessions - through a contemplative time oftraditional Indian prayer. The pilgrims werewelcomed in unmistakable Indian style byadorning their foreheads with a ‘tilak’ ofsandalwood paste. The chants sung bytrained Indian vocalists of Rexband wereaccompanied by Indian percussion andwind instruments. The music integratedchants of worship, contemplation andcelebration. The pilgrims were moved bythe depth and poignancy of the chants.

JESUS YOUTH @ WYD

REXBAND


JESUS YOUTH @ WYD

CATECHESISJESUS YOUTH @ WYD

INDIANPRAYER

Bishop Tria Tirona Bishop William Edward Lori

Bishop John Mathias

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

The second Jesus Youth International Gathering(JYIG) was held from 21st to 23rd July in Sydneyas an after-party to the World Youth Day 2008celebrations. As the final act in the pilgrimageof a lifetime, the JYIG brought together about200 Jesus Youth from over 13 countries underone roof as one family in order to reflect on thedirections of the Holy Spirit regarding thegrowth of Jesus Youth and to dream ahead for awider awakening to His call, overcoming presentchallenges. The programme began with anInaugural Mass celebrated by Most Rev.

“I EXPERIENCED A SENSE OF BELONGING.INTERACTING WITH JESUS YOUTH FROMAROUND THE GLOBE HELPED ME LEARNMORE ABOUT THE WAYS IN WHICH THEYARE RESPONDING TO GOD’S CALL.I REALISED THAT I TOO AM BEING CALLEDTO A MISSIONARY LIFE, EVERY DAY,EVERY MOMENT.” DORIN, UK

JYIGJESUS YOUTHINTERNATIONAL GATHERING21 - 23 JULY, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

“THE COMMITMENT LEVEL OF OURLEADERS, WHO TRAVEL AROUND THEWORLD FOR MISSIONARY WORK IN SPITEOF THE DIFFICULTIES INVOLVED, TRULYMOTIVATED ME FOR MISSIONARY LIFE.”NIDHEESH JOSEPH, INDIA

Bishop Christopher Prowse celebrating Holy Mass

Inauguration Ceremony

Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangaracelebrates the Inaugural Mass

Abraham Viruthakulangara, Archbishopof Nagpur, India. His Grace’s homily on“What the Church is Saying to JesusYouth Today” was inspiring andencouraging. He emphasised the needto be rooted in the Church. The Masswas followed by a procession of theflags of various countries and a gracefulThai dance presented by JY Thailand.

The session by Most Rev. ChristopherProwse, Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourneon “What the Holy Spirit is Saying toJesus Youth Today”struck acontemplative note. Sweeping theparticipants off their feet was theflagging-off of the ‘JY Express’- aunique journey led by one of thepioneers of Jesus Youth, Dr. EdwardEdezhath. With a series of sharingsfrom Jesus Youth over the last threedecades, the ‘JY Express’ took everyoneon a roller-coaster ride down memorylane - from the initial dreams about theministry to how it got its name andchallenges for mission in somecountries to ‘what next?’. The gatheringprovided wonderful opportunities foryouth to share and inspire one another.The workshops served as a platform for

“MEETING SO MANY YOUNG JY FRIENDSFROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES ANDLISTENING TO THEIR SHARING WAS TRULYENCOURAGING AND CHALLENGING.“DIANA TOM, IRELAND

“SEEING PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENTCOUNTRIES, UNDER ONE NAME ‘JESUS YOUTH’TRULY GAVE ME THE UNDERSTANDING OFHOW BLESSED WE ARE.”HAZEL IRIMPAN, CANADA

“A TRULY BLESSED AND MOVINGEXPERIENCE THAT HAS CREATED A RENEWEDDESIRE TO SEE THIS MOVEMENT THROUGHTO THE NEXT GENERATION, AND ARENEWED FIRE AND PASSION THAT WILLUNQUESTIONABLY CARRY US ON TO THENEXT INTERNATIONAL GATHERING!”JUDY RAPPAI, AUSTRALIA

“I WAS INSPIRED BY THE LOVE AND LIFEOF THE JY FAMILY. THE WORKSHOPS,PRAISE AND WORSHIP, THE INSTALLATIONOF THE NEW INT’L TEAM, IN FACT, THEWHOLE EVENT WAS A GOOD EXPRIENCE.”THEOPHILE, THAILAND

“I WAS TOUCHED DURING THE MASSCELEBRATED BY BISHOP CHRISTOPHERPROWSE. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT IHEARD A BISHOP SPEAKING IN TONGUESWHILE CELEBRATING HOLY MASS. HISMESSAGE WAS VERY INSPIRING AND GAVEME A NEW INSIGHT INTO OUR MISSIONARYCALL.” MARIAM GEORGE, UAE

group sharing with topics ranging frompersonal reflections to building ministries.A panel sharing led by the dynamic duo ofDony Peter and Mayrose Pius brought us to‘Meet the Nations’ where leaders sharedunique Spirit-led initiatives in all countrieswhere Jesus Youth has reached out onmission.

Theme-based adorations, inspiringsermons and uplifting music moved everyheart to feel the presence of the HolySpirit, entrusting them with a mission totake back home. The Music Ministry wasunique, comprising of Jesus Youth from 4different continents led by Jomy Abraham(UAE) and Thomas John (Australia).Thegathering was truly a celebration ofcompanionship in Christ and a refuellingof our missionary zeal. The grand finalekicked-off preparations for the JesusYouth Silver Jubilee celebrations in 2010,and called upon all JY to gear-up for thismega event. As everyone danced and saidtheir goodbyes promising to pray for oneanother, an air of jubilation and hopelingered on for each one and for themovement as a whole.SEEMA THOMAS, Singapore

Priests & Religious with Bishop Christopher Prowse at JYIG

Local JY Organising Team, Sydney


RECONSTITUTIONJESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONAL TEAM

Praying over the new International Team

Rexband – the music outreach of Jesus Youth – released their latest album ‘SON RISE’ on27th June 2008 at the Rock Auditorium in Singapore during the first concert of their summertour covering Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. Most Rev. Nicholas Chia, Archbishop ofthe 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 arrangedvery much in the usual Rexband manner, fusing contemporary music and ethnic styles. Anintroduction on the album cover beautifully sums up what the songs are all about:

Release of ‘SON RISE’ - Rexband’s latest album

explained. In the afternoon all the participants voted on the panel which wasthen processed by the Discernment Team and the final team was announced inthe evening. The new team met together with the Discernment Team and thenew Co-ordinator and Assistant Co-ordinator were selected from among them.DR. EDWARD EDEZHATH, India

The process of finding leadership in a groupspeaks volumes about the nature and styleof that group. The Jesus Youth InternationalTeam (JYIT) was reconstituted at Liverpool,Sydney on 21st July 2008. This finaldiscernment day was the culmination of asix-month long world wide JY preparationunder the guidance of the JYIT and its co-ordinator Manoj Sunny. In the first phase ofthe reconstitution ending in March 2008, allthe national teams prepared a panel for thenext team from their own respectivecountries. Later JYIT with needed additions,circulated this panel with a brief bio-data ofeach person. Special invitees were alsoproposed by the national teams for thereconstitution.

Nearly 90 Jesus Youth leaders, animatorsand pastors from 15 different countriescame together for the reconstitution on21st July. A small team led by ArchbishopAbraham Viruthakulangara of Nagpurguided the process. After a time of prayer,Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Edward Edezhath andManoj Sunny spoke to the group on “JesusYouth in the Church and the World Today”.Later in preparation for the discernment,each member of the panel was introducedand the reconstitution process was

IF THE SON HAD NOT RISEN INOUR LIVES, OUR DAYS WOULD

CONTAIN NO JOY

21 JULY 2008, LIVERPOOL, SYDNEY

A BRAND NEW SON RISE!

“IF THE SON HAD NOT RISEN IN OUR LIVES, OURDAYS WOULD CONTAIN NO JOY, OUR VOICESWOULD CARRY NO MUSIC AND OUR HEARTSWOULD HOLD NO LOVE. WE SING, DANCE, LOVEAND LIVE BECAUSE HE ARISES EVERYMOMENT, DISPELLING THE DARKNESS WITH HISETERNAL DAWN. AND EVERY SONG INTHIS ALBUM IS A CELEBRATION OF HIS RADIANTPRESENCE. LET THE SON RISE!”


GEORGE DEVASSYJY InternationalCo-ordinatorPursuing his doctoralstudies in Bangkok.Former JY South EastAsia Co-ordinator.

NAVIN BRUCETHOMASJY InternationalAsst. Co-ordinatorManagement Professional.Coordinated JY Full timeVolunteers’ Trainings.

SUNILNADARAJAN, USAIT Professional. Member,Jesus Youth of AmericaNational Team.

FR. AJYMOOLEPARAMBIL CMIAnimatorPastor, JY Germany.

RAIJUVARGHESEIndiaAdvocate. FormerNational Co-ordinatorof JY India.

ROOPESHTHOMAS, OmanEngineer. AssistantCoordinator, JY OmanService Team.

DONY PETER,IndiaPursuing doctoralstudies in Bangkok.JY Full timeVolunteer 2006.

FR. THOMASTHARAYIL,JY InternationalPastorDiocese of Vijaypuram,Kerala, India.

RAJESHTHALAPPILLIL,AustraliaMedical Scientist.National Co-ordinatorof JY Australia.

SILJO THOMASIndiaHealthcareProfessional.National Co-ordinatorof JY India.

MANOJ SUNNYIndiaEngineer. FormerJY InternationalCo-ordinator.

SANTHOSHMATHEW, UAEBusinessman. Memberof JY Middle EastTeam.

SEEMA THOMASSingaporeEngineer. Member,National Team, JYSingapore.

JULIUSANTONY, UAEBusinessman.JY Middle EastCo-ordinator.

NIMMI PAULThailandManagement Professional.National Co-ordinator ofJY Thailand.

FR. JAMESMULLIGANAnimatorPastor, JY New Zealand.

MAYROSE PIUSAustraliaHR Consultant. AssistantNational Coordinator ofJY Australia.

JOSEMATHEW, UKSocial worker.JY EuropeanCo-ordinator.

BABY CHACKOAnimatorSenior JY animator.Significant role inshaping JY leaders,especially Full timeVolunteers.

ANNA BORNGermanyTeaching Professional.Member, National Team,JY Germany.

C. C. JOSEPHIndiaHR Consultant. FormerNational Co-ordinatorof JY India.

JESUS YOUTHINTERNATIONAL TEAM

THE NEWLYRE-CONSTITUTED

Witnessing a fruitful phase in theJesus Youth Movement, twenty-four leaders from ten differentcountries across four continentsgathered at the Choice RetreatCentre in Singapore from 25th July- 8th August 2008. It was the firsttime that such a training wasbeing conducted for Jesus YouthLeaders on an international level.

The participants were blessed withan incredible resource team thatincluded Rev. Fr. Fio Mascarenhas,Rev. Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Prof. C. C.Alicekutty, Dr. Edward Edezhath,Manoj Sunny, C. C. Joseph, AlexNjavally, Chackochan Njavallil,V. J. Antony, Reena Antony andSunil Nadarajan. The trainingbegan with sessions on paradigmshift, which opened their minds,enabling learning without bias.The training continued with afocus on leadership, integrity andthe Jesus Youth movement. It alsogave an insight to what the

JYILTJESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONALLEADERS’ TRAINING25 JULY - 8 AUGUST 2008, SINGAPORE

His Grace Nicholas Chia celebrating Holy Mass & presenting certificates to participants

movement requires of its leaders. The sessionson the Catholic Church and the Bible helpedconvince the participants of their mission andthe need to seek support from the Church.

The 24 participants were commissioned by MostRev. Nicholas Chia, Archbishop of the Dioceseof Singapore, on 8th August 2008. His Gracechallenged every one to live out their call toleadership and assured them of his prayersupport. The anointing of the Spirit wasexperienced throughout the ceremony.

Encouraged by the presence of a committedtraining team consisting of Rev. Fr. BitajuPuthenpurackal O.Ss.T., Prof. C. C. Alicekutty,Adv. Raiju Varghese and Anoop Jerome, theparticipants took home loads of learning.Moreover they returned deeply motivated tobecome Christ-centred missionaries and leaders.

NIMMI PAUL, Thailand

“THE TRAINING MET ALL MYEXPECTATIONS. I WAS ACTUALLYSTRUGGLING TO SUSTAIN MYSELF AS AYOUTH LEADER, AND THE TRAININGHELPED ME FOCUS ON MY CALL IN THEMINISTRY. I AM CERTAIN THE TRAININGWILL HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON EACH OFOUR LIVES AS WELL AS ON THEMOVEMENT. THE NEW CONVICTIONSHELPED ME TO MAKE A DECISION TOREMAIN FAITHFUL TO MY CALL AS ALEADER.” JULIUS ANTONY, MIDDLE EAST

‘ASCHRISTIANLIFE IS APILGRIMAGETO THEHOUSE OFOUR

HEAVENLY FATHER, 24 ACTIVE JYLEADERS FROM DIFFERENT PARTSOF THE WORLD GATHERED IN ATRAVELERS’ INN AT SINGAPOREWHERE THEY EVALUATED THEIRPAST DAYS’ JOURNEY ANDEQUIPPED THEMSELVES FOR THECOMING DAYS. AFTER THETRAINING, ALL THESE LEADERSRESUMED THEIR PILGRIMAGEWITH RENEWED ENERGY. THISTRAINING HELPED THEMSHARPEN THEIR VISION ANDUPDATE THEMSELVES ON RECENTREALITIES.”ADV. RAIJU VARGHESE,CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM.

“ MOST OF THELEADERS WHOCAME FOR THETRAINING HADBEEN ACTIVEIN THE JYMINISTRIES

FOR A DECADE OR MORE. WHATSURPRISED ME WAS THEIR GREATDESIRE AND INTEREST TO GETTRAINED IN THEIR RESPECTIVEMINISTRIES SO AS TO DO IT WITHMORE COMMITMENT ANDEFFECTIVENESS. THIS IS WHATENCOURAGED ME TO BE AVAILABLETO THE GROUP FULL TIME. I HAVEGREAT APPRECIATION FOR THE JYINTERNATIONAL TEAM, WHICHTOOK SUCH AN IMPORTANT STEP.”FR. BITAJU PUTHENPURACKAL,PASTOR, TRAINING TEAM

“THE TRAINING GAVE ME ANINSIGHT INTO THE CATHOLICCHURCH AND ITS BEAUTIFULTEACHINGS AS WELL AS THEMOVEMENT IN A MUCH BROADERPERSPECTIVE. THE SHARING BYVARIOUS LEADERS WASINSPIRING. THE INTERNATIONALFACE OF JESUS YOUTH HASBEEN A REVELATION FOR ME.”PAULSON JOSE, INDIA

“THE PROGRAMME, WHICH WAS RICHIN CATHOLIC CULTURE, GAVE MECLARITY REGARDING THE GLOBALPERSPECTIVE OF JESUS YOUTH. AT THESAME TIME, I COULD CHERISH THEFELLOWSHIP AND THE JOYFULSPIRITUALITY OF LEADERS FROMDIFFERENT PARTS OF THE WORLD.THEIR CHRIST-CENTREDNESS REALLYCHALLENGED AND MOTIVATED ME.”TOJY TOM, IRELAND

“THE TRAINING HAS BEENAN ENRICHINGEXPERIENCE AND A TIMEOF EMPOWERMENT ANDSPECIAL ANOINTING. IPERSONALLY FEEL IT IS ACALL TO BE MORECOMMITTED AND TO SERVEAND BUILD A LOVINGCOMMUNITY THAT LISTENSTO GODS’ VOICE.”LEEA SERRAO, SINGAPORE

Commitment Ceremony


YAIThe 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 worldwere present at this programme organised byYouth Arise International - a federation ofinternational Catholic youth movements thatpromotes youth evangelization and discipleshipthroughout the world. For many, YAI was a time

ST. JOSEPH’S NUDGEE COLLEGE, BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA10 – 13 JULY 2008

YOUTH ARISE INTERNATIONALYOUTH FESTIVAL

to prepare for WYD, to get accustomedphysically to the climatic conditions, as well asto open their hearts to ‘receive the power’. Asbodies froze and shivered, the spirits of theparticipants thawed under the Son-shine ofthe Holy Trinity. The festival brought togetheryouth the world over to experience a time ofblessing, encouragement, friendship andgrace, and to celebrate their unity in Christ.

Henry Cappello with Matteo Calisi

Fr. Tom ForrestSalvatore Martinez

“IT WASREALLY GREATTO SEE SOMANY YOUNGCATHOLICSFROMAROUND THEWORLD. THETALKS ANDSESSIONSESPECIALLYON HOW TOEVANGELISEWERE REALLYINSPIRING.”RINI, UK


The key note address by HenryCappello (President of YAI) setthe right tone at the onset ofthe festival. The session by theacclaimed speaker SalvatoreMartinez illustrated the way helives out the Gospel, especiallyamong children with specialneeds. Sessions and workshopswere conducted by renownedspeakers like Fr. Tom Forrest,Fr. Gino Henriques, Fr. ChrisRyan, Fr. Ken Barker, MatteoCalisi, Rob Clark, Bob McCarty,Sabina Cappello and ShaneBennett among others.

Movements from variouscountries joined in the festivalwith their different yetcomplementary styles of worshipand ministering. Matt Maher’sband, Emmanuel Worship, andJesus Youth’s very own Rexbandwere the main teamsministering throughcontemporary Christian music.Their vibrant concerts were thehighlight of each night atBrisbane. On one of the nights,towards the close of theministering by the Rexband, itwas amazing to witness youngpeople queuing up to receive theSacrament of Reconciliation. Theauditorium was filled with the‘peace that surpassesunderstanding’. The programmewas an unforgettable experiencethat gave participants arenewed hope and passion forthe Catholic Church. It wasamazing to see many differentnations united in praising Godand celebrating the Sacraments.

The event was designed to allowparticipants to choose from awide variety of workshops eachday. Topics such asEvangelisation, Growing inLeadership, Receiving the HolySpirit and Spirituality ofCommunion were covered. One ofthe most inspiring andunforgettable talks was given byFr. Tom Forrest aboutevangelizing the youth of theworld today, and his message forthe young people was: “Go, go,go and be witnesses for the Lord,not tomorrow but today.” Afterall, this is what YAI is all about !

MAYROSE PIUS, Australia

“THE BEAUTIFUL,DYNAMIC PRAISEAND WORSHIP,INSIGHTFUL TALKSAND OUTPOURINGOF THE HOLYSPIRIT - ALL THISMADE THE EVENTSPIRITUALLYUPLIFTING ANDWORTHWHILE.” ANN GOMEZ,SINGAPORE

“IT WAS ANOPPORTUNITY TOMEET YOUNGSTERSFROM OTHERGROUPS WITHCHARISMATICSPIRITUALITY. TOKNOW THEIR FAITHAND TO SEE THEIRCOMMITMENT TOMISSION INSPIREDME A LOT.” SHIJIVARGHESE, INDIA

“TO WITNESS ANINETY-YEAROLD PRIESTINSPIRINGEVEN THENINETEEN YEAROLDS WITH HISYOUTHFULSPIRIT ANDLOVE FOR THELORD WASTRULYAWESOME.”FR. SONY,IRELAND

“BEING WITH SOMANY YOUTHFROM ALL OVERTHE WORLD WITHONE COMMONPURPOSE - JESUSCHRIST - HELPEDRENEW MYVISION ANDIDENTIFY MYSTRENGTH TOMINISTERTHROUGHMUSIC.” BIBINSOLOMON, UAE

“WITH SO MANY PARTICIPATINGPRIESTS, THERE WAS ALWAYSSOMEONE AVAILABLE FORPERSONAL TALK. THE MUSIC TOOWAS GREAT AND LED ME INTODEEPER PRAYER.”HESO, GERMANY

Matt Maher

Patrick Keady, Emmanuel Worship

Rexband

YAI International Council

“THE ACTIVEINVOLVEMENTOF EACHANIMATOR WASVISIBLETHROUGHOUTTHE TRAININGWHICH BUILT A

GOOD FELLOWSHIP AMONG THEMAND ULTIMATELY LED TO A LOVEAND CONCERN FOR THE CHURCHAND THE JY MOVEMENT. THESESSIONS, PANEL WORKSHOP,ETC. HANDLED BY JY PASTORSAND LEADERS IMPARTED GREATIDEAS AS WELL AS GUIDELINESFOR BECOMING AN EFFECTIVEJESUS YOUTH ANIMATOR. I AMGLAD TO HAVE BEEN PART OF THISINITIATIVE.”PROF. V. M. GEORGE,CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM

“I WAS IMPRESSEDBY THE QUALITY OFTHE PARTICIPANTSAND THEIRREADINESS TOBECOME AGENTS

OF TRANSFORMATION. A BAND OFPEOPLE READY TO PAY THE PRICE FORDISCIPLESHIP. THEIR OPENNESS,DOCILITY AND READINESS TO ENTERINTO THE CULTURE OF SILENCE ANDLISTENING WAS REMARKABLE. IWISH AND PRAY THAT THESEPARTICIPANTS BECOME A COREGROUP FOR FUTURE BUILDING UP,TRAINING AND ANIMATION.FR. ABRAHAM PALLIVATHUKAL SJ,PASTOR, TRAINING TEAM

JYIATJESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONALANIMATORS’ TRAINING25 JULY - 7 AUGUST, BANGKOK, THAILAND

Fifteen participants from six different countriesgathered for the first Jesus Youth InternationalAnimators’ Training held at the Garden of GospelPeace Retreat Centre in Bangkok. They came fromUSA, UK, UAE, Germany, India and Thailand.

Starting on 25th July and ending on 7th August, theprogramme kicked-off with a two-day retreatfollowed by 14 days of diverse training sessions.These were handled by JY elders and trainers likeRev. Fr. Abraham Pallivathukal S.J., Baby Chacko,V. J. Antony, Reena Antony, Dr. Edward Edezhath,Manoj Sunny, C.C. Joseph, Alex Njavally andChackochan Njavallil. The presence of His GraceArchbishop Thomas Menamparambil SDB, Archbishopof Guwahati and his session on ‘Apologetics’ was ablessing indeed.

The training included meditations, workshops andtestimonies. The focus was on communicating withthe youth, listening, mentoring, pastoring, buildingleadership, integrity, use of charisms, etc. All the

“THE SACRAMENTS ANDADORATION STRENGTHENEDMY BODY, MIND AND SOUL.THE SESSIONS ON MENTORINGAND PASTORING MADE MEREALIZE MY DUTIES ANDRESPONSIBILITIES AS ANANIMATOR. FELLOWSHIP WITHANIMATORS FROM DIFFERENTCOUNTRIES WAS A TRULYMEMORABLE EXPERIENCE.”MONCY GEORGE, UAE

“IT WAS A TIME OF SELFDISCOVERY. LIVING WITHPARTICIPANTS FROMDIFFERENT NATIONS ANDAGE GROUPS GAVE US ATASTE OF EARLY CHRISTIANCOMMUNITY LIVING. WEWERE MADE AWARE OFTHE URGENCY OFEVANGELIZATION,PARTICULARLY OF YOUTH.”FR. JAS ELANJIKAL, INDIA

“THROUGH INPUTS ANDINTERACTIONS WITH MANYPEOPLE, WE WERE ENRICHEDAND BECAME MORE AWARE OFTHE GREATNESS OF OUR CALL.WE REALIZE THAT WE NEED TO‘BE WITH’ THE YOUTH. WE HAVEBEEN RE-IGNITED TO LIVE THEGOSPEL LIFE IN ORDER TO BEAGENTS OF TRANSFORMATION.”SUNITHA & ANIL ISRAEL,GERMANY

sessions were interactive, helpingthe participants to search deepwithin to find their role in thechanging realm of youth today.They were made aware of many ofthe mistakes animators and eldersusually make and the wrongapproaches taken while dealingwith the youth. The spirit of unityand fellowship experienced was akey element of the training.‘Accompanying the Youth’ was thecentral theme, which can also betermed as the primaryresponsibility of every youthanimator. It meant being withthem not just physically, butmentally and spiritually. The dailyAdorations and Eucharisticcelebrations helped everyonedeepen their relationship with theLord and learn from the MasterAnimator himself. The traininghelped them to recognize their

unique call as animators andunderstand the challenges that layahead of them. Even though manyhave been active in youthanimation, the training broughtnew awareness and a paradigmshift in thinking.

The training programme ended witha commissioning ceremony andanointing of the Spirit during theHoly Mass on 7th August 2008.The participants have decided toform an email network to continuegrowing in fellowship and to shareexperiences, ideas, news, etc.Everybody felt that such trainingsshould become a regular event, sothat more animators and eldersfrom different parts of the worldare enriched and enlightened totake on the challenges of youthanimation.JOMY ABRAHAM, UAE


Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil with the participants and the training team

“THE ANIMATORS’TRAINING WAS ANINSPIRATIONALBEGINNING TO SPIRITUALIMPROVEMENT FOR EVERYPARTICIPANT. ALL ECHOEDIN UNISON THAT SUCHTRAINING IS ESSENTIALFOR THE DEVELOPMENT OFYOUTH IN THEIRRESPECTIVE REGIONS.” JOSE MALAICKAL,USA

A SERIES OF TWELVE CONCERTS ACROSS THREECOUNTRIES IN ONE MONTH - MISSION IMPOSSIBLE- HE MADE IT POSSIBLE BY HIS GRACE.

REXBAND’S SUMMER TOUR - A JOURNEY OF FAITHAND IMMENSE GRACE.

REXBAND27TH JUNE – 20TH JULY 2008

REXBAND SUMMER TOUR OF SINGAPORE, NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA

With the experience of two incredible World YouthDays behind us, the Rexband began to gear up for itsthird WYD down under, as well as a series ofconcerts in Singapore, New Zealand and Australia.As we took a one month break from our regular jobsand began the recording of our new album, itseemed like “Mission Impossible” with Jesus in thelead. We witnessed a miracle of multiplication; butinstead of fish and bread He multiplied time andwithin the shortest time and over several cities,“SON RISE” happened. And with that the Lordlaunched us into a whirligig of boarding flights withloads of baggage, finding ourselves in a new cityevery day, meeting and staying with new people,praying with and ministering to people of differentraces, seeing exciting new landscapes, battling withextreme and hitherto unfamiliar climatic conditions,setting up and dismantling equipment, with only afew hours of sleep and a concert nearly everyevening. And always, always, to experience His mercyand grace and the power of His Spirit!

The first of our series of 12 concerts was in the RockAuditorium in Singapore where we had the release ofour new album “Son Rise.” The Singaporeans hadprayed and fasted, and the Lord’s presence was feltthroughout, strengthening us and again proving to ushow much the victory of the Lord is carried on theprayers of the people that host us.


“SEEING REXBAND PERFORM, I COULDFEEL THE LOVE THEY HAVE FOR GOD ANDTHE LOVE GOD HAS FOR ALL OF US EVENTHOUGH WE SIN. IT’S AMAZING HOW THEYUSE THEIR TALENTS TO REACH OUT TOPEOPLE. I TEARED UP AT SOME MOMENTSDURING THE CONCERT; IT WAS SOTOUCHING AND OVERWHELMING.”CRISTY RODRIGUES, SINGAPORE

“WE ENJOYED YOUR CONCERT. KEEPSINGING AND LET THE WORLD KNOWABOUT JESUS THROUGH YOURMINISTRY. YOUR MUSIC NOT ONLYAPPEALS TO THE Y GENERATION BUTALSO THE OLDER FOLKS. I AM 47 ANDHAVE 2 TEENAGE KIDS AND WE ALLENJOYED THE SHOW THOROUGHLY!”SAMUEL GEORGE, BRISBANE

“JUST LIKE TO CONGRATULATE YOU ONTHE AWESOME PERFORMANCE YOUDID IN WHANGAREI. IT WAS TRULYINSPIRATIONAL! THANKS FOR THE CD!IT’S THE ONLY THING I PLAY IN MY CARNOW!” JAMES THOMPSON,WHANGAREI

“IT WAS A WONDERFUL RELIGIOUSEXPERIENCE AND A BRILLIANT MUSICALPRODUCTION. I PRAY THAT THE LORDWILL CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU ALL ASYOU GIVE WITNESS TO HIM ESPECIALLYDURING THE WORLD YOUTH DAYACTIVITIES.” MOST REV. DENIS BROWNEBISHOP OF HAMILTON

From Singapore we proceeded to NewZealand, where we had three concerts inAuckland, Christchurch and Whangareiand a two hour music workshop inPompallier Catholic College, Whangarei.Despite the freezing cold that playedhavoc with our health, the concerts wentoff without a hitch. The warmth of thewelcome we received from the peoplethere made us forget the cold.

JY Australia organised 5 concerts inMelbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberraand Sydney. The third leg of our tourstarted with the concert in Melbournefrom where we set off to the other cities.We participated in the Youth Arise Festivalin Brisbane where we ministered and alsomet with some renowned musicians andCatholic bands like Matt Maher andEmmanuel Worship. Then of course therewas the excitement of joining thousandsof World Youth Day pilgrims from acrossthe world to welcome the Holy Father inSydney and gather around him in prayer.We had three concerts at the WYDfestival and led pilgrims in an afternoonof Indian worship after which we treatedthem to Indian snacks.

Our concerts were a wonderful experienceof God’s presence in the many people whohosted us, and in those who came to theshows and with whom we had a chance topray and experience the Lord’s love in aspecial way. Without exception all the hostfamilies throughout Australia, all thosewonderful Jesus Youth who untiringlyorganized the concerts touched our heartsand lives in an exceptional way. So muchso, that though we are still reeling fromthe hectic time of travel, hopping off andon to planes, and juggling all our work andcommitments back home, we would bemore than ready to say “Yes” if God callsus to the next WYD in Madrid!

GEORGE ETTYIL

“COMING HOME FROM THE REXBANDCONCERT, THE LAST SONG ‘HALLELUJAH,AMEN’ WAS STUCK IN OUR HEADS. ATTHE TRAIN STATION, A MAN STARTEDVERBALLY ABUSING OUR GROUP OFNEARLY 30 PILGRIMS. A FEW OF USTRIED TO REASON WITH HIM BUT HE KEPTYELLING. AT THIS POINT, A COUPLE OF USSTARTED SINGING ‘HALLELUJAH, AMEN’.AND SOON EVERYONE JOINED INDROWNING OUT THE ANGRY SHOUTS. ASTATION GUARD ALSO APPEARED TODIFFUSE THE SITUATION AND WE SANGALL THE WAY HOME. THANK YOUREXBAND FOR INSPIRING US...”JAMES LAWLER, WYD PILGRIM

JYIFTJESUS YOUTH INTERNATIONALFULLTIME VOLUNTEERS’TRAINING25 JULY - 22 AUGUST 2008, BANGKOK

“I then heard the voice of the Lord saying: ‘Whom shall Isend? Who will go for us?’” (Isaiah 6:8) and twenty younglives across twelve countries cried out: “Here we are;send us!”

The third Jesus Youth International Fulltime Volunteers’Training was held at the Garden of Gospel Peace,Franciscan Retreat Centre, Bangkok from 25th July to22ndAugust 2008.The participants, hailing from UK, USA,Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, UAE, India, Bangladesh,Pakistan, Cambodia, Thailand and Yemen, underwent anintense training focusing on prayer, scriptural studies,interpersonal skills, orientation for evangelisation, etc.The programme was co-ordinated by a Training Teamcomprising of Rev. Fr. Ajy Mooleparambil CMI, Rev. Fr.Abraham Pallivathukal SJ, Navin Bruce Thomas, BabyChacko, Anna Born and Mayrose Pius. The presence ofother JY Leaders including Manoj Sunny and the newInternational Coordinator, George Devassy was alsoencouraging.

“THE DAYS INBANGKOK FOR THEFULL-TIMERS’TRAINING WAS ATIME OF REVIVAL INMY MISSIONARYLIFE. MANYVIBRANT YOUNG

PEOPLE ARE COMING UP WITHZEAL AND FIRE FOR THE GOSPELTODAY REVEALING THEPRESENCE OF A YOUNG ANDVIBRANT CHURCH. THE WAY THEYCOMMIT THEIR LIVES TO THELORD FROM THEIR HEARTSCHALLENGED ME. LISTENING TOTHE SHARING OF MANY YOUNGPEOPLE, I FELT A GREATER NEEDFOR LAITY FORMATION IN THECATHOLIC CHURCH.”FR. AJY MOOLEPARAMBIL CMI,GERMANY PASTOR, TRAININGTEAM

“CHRIST IS RELEVANTTO YOUNG PEOPLETODAY. I WASCONSTANTLYREMINDED OF THISDURING THE DAYS OFTHE TRAINING. AFTERGETTING TO KNOW

THE PARTICIPANTS, I AM VERYHAPPY TO SEE THE DEEP CHANGESTHAT HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN THEIRLIVES WITHIN SUCH A SHORT TIME.I BELIEVE THE HOLY SPIRIT ISEQUIPPING THEM FOR BIGGERMISSIONS AROUND THE WORLD.”NAVIN BRUCE THOMAS,CO-ORDINATOR, TRAINING TEAM


It was a great privilege to haveHis Grace ThomasMenamparampil SDB, Archbishopof Guwahati, take sessions forthe group, as his immenseknowledge and experiencetouched and enkindled a deeperaffection for the Mother Churchin the young hearts. Otherresource persons who interactedwith the participants andconducted sessions included JudeAntoine (Malaysia), Dr. EdwardEdezhath, C. C. Joseph, LeoThaddeus and Alex Njavally.

The daily Mass, Adoration andpersonal prayer were a greatsource of strength,transformation and hope. Theafternoon sessions began withthe Rosary which theparticipants recited in creativeways. Taizé Adoration was also adifferent experience.Br. Ghislain (Taizé Community,France) gave a wonderfulintroduction about Taizé and ledthe prayer.

The participants had a first-handexperience in meeting newpeople and in sharing Jesus withthem through a campusoutreach to AssumptionUniversity, Bangkok. Fr. Amnuoy(Pastor, JY Thailand) extendedhis support in making thisoutreach an unforgettableexperience. The participants alsovisited the AIDS patients at St.Clare’s Hospice.

The training concluded with aCommitment Ceremony and HolyMass on 22nd August 2008. Itwas an honour to have HisExcellency John Bosco Panya,Bishop of Rachapuri to bless,anoint and commission theseyoung missionaries.

Eleven of the 20 participantshave taken a fulltimecommitment in differentcountries while the remainingnine people will take part timeor weekend commitments intheir respective countries. MayGod bless these young disciplesas they go out into the world tolead more disciples to the loveof Christ!JOBY JOSE, YEMEN

“IT WAS NOT JUST A TRAININGPROGRAMME TO DEEPEN OURRELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. ITWAS MUCH MORE THAN THAT,BECAUSE I LEARNT SO MANYTHINGS FROM THE RETREAT,THE SESSIONS AND MY BATCHMATES. IT TAUGHT ME HOW TOLIVE IN THIS WORLD WITH GOD,HOW TO CHANGE MYSELF, HOWTO EVANGELIZE OTHER PEOPLE,AND HOW TO WORK AS ADISCIPLE. I LEARNT HOW TOOVERCOME MY WEAKNESSESWITH ALL THE SUPPORT, LOVEAND ENCOURAGEMENT FROMMY BATCH.” SHERIN ARATHIL,AUSTRIA

“I HEARD INSPIRING SESSIONSBY SOME OF THE BESTRESOURCE PERSONS IN THEWORLD AND GAINEDINVALUABLE FRIENDSHIPS WITHOTHER YOUNG PEOPLE WHOSEHEARTS ARE SET ON HISKINGDOM. ALTOGETHER, I’VECOME BACK FROM BANGKOKWITH A MUCH STRONGER SENSEOF COMMITMENT AND FOCUS.”THOMAS PULICKAL, USA

“IT WAS A WONDERFULEXPERIENCE LIVING WITH 19UNFAMILIAR PEOPLE WITH WHOMWE PRAYED, PLAYED, LAUGHEDAND CRIED TOGETHER FOR 29DAYS. THIS TRAINING HASCHANGED MY WHOLE ATTITUDETOWARDS LIFE. IT HAS NOT ONLYPREPARED ME FOR THIS ONEYEAR COMMITMENT TOMISSIONARY WORK BUT HASALSO PREPARED ME FOR ALIFETIME COMMITMENT TO THELORD.” VENETIA PEREIRA, U.A.E

“IT WAS A GREAT JOY TO BEA PART OF THIS AMAZINGGLOBAL COMMUNITY OFYOUNGSTERS FILLED WITHZEAL AND ENTHUSIASM TOSHARE CHRISTTHROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES. IWAS ABLE TOUNDERSTAND THE DIVERSECULTURES AND LIFE-SITUATIONS OF MYBROTHERS AND SISTERSAND THIS HAS OPENED MYEYES TO THE GREATERREALITY OF THE MISSIONTHAT HAS BEENENTRUSTED TO US.”MELVIN DAVID, INDIA

Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil with theparticipants and the training team

THE PASSION AND ZEALSHOWN BY FELLOWPARTICIPANTS,ANIMATORS AND THERESOURCE TEAM, TO SHARECHRIST WITH OTHERSTOUCHED AND INSPIRED ME.JYIFT WAS A COMPREHENSIVETRAINING TO BE A DISCIPLEAND MAKE DISCIPLES FORCHRIST. ITCOVERED A VARIETY OFAREAS, FROM PERSONALSPIRITUALITY, TOEXPLORING ANDDEVELOPING ONESELF AS APERSON.SHELTON D’COSTA, UK

MY HOPESFOR JESUS YOUTH

AS JESUS YOUTH FROM AROUND THE WORLD GATHERED AT ALL SAINTS CHURCH, SYDNEY ON 22ND JULY 2008, THESECOND 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 ACONDENSED VERSION OF HIS EXCELLENCY’S SESSION,“WHAT THE HOLY SPIRIT HAS TO SAY TO JESUS YOUTH TODAY”.

BE ‘EAGLE’ CATHOLICSLIVING OUT

A PERPETUAL PENTECOSTIN THIS WORLD.

What about “Jesus Youth”? Do you havesome of these characteristics? Yes, you have.So, will Jesus Youth be here for a long time orbe like a rocket in the spiritual world - rise upin a mighty fashion with all the “glitz” ofPentecost and make a real impact in thismoment in time; but then fade out and fallaway into the horizon? Well, that depends onthe Holy Spirit. All is grace. But it may alsodepend on the careful stewardship or prudentcare and discernment with which we respondto what we have experienced as a realfootprint of the Holy Spirit now, in our times.

Here are what I feel may be some of themany characteristics of a true and authenticmovement of the Holy Spirit in the CatholicChurch today; something that I call my“forevers” and what I believe must be thesoul of any movement of the Holy Spirit thatcalls itself Catholic.

BE FOREVER PENTECOST YOUNGBe ‘Eagle’ Catholics living out a perpetualPentecost in this world. “Young men maygrow tired and weary, youths may stumble,but those who hope in the Lord renew theirstrength, they put out their wings likeeagles. They run and do not grow weary,walk and never tire” (Isaiah 40:30-31). So

“fly and glide like an eagle”. Don’t be“flapping” all the time. “Flap” to get to aprayer time/place and give it real priorityevery day, but when you are there “glide”. Belovers of SILENCE – God’s mother tongue.Without this, Jesus Youth will eventually“fossilize” and become merely a pious club.Follow the Marian principle – “treasure andponder”(Lk. 2:51). Mary is forever ablossoming Pentecost. She is forever young inthe Church.

BE FOREVER CATHOLICThe key would be to keep up the“communitarian” instinct and the wonder of“oneness” and not to give into thetemptation to splinter. Invoke the ‘PeterPrinciple’, which is neither authoritarian norlax, but is the authority of servant leadership.Peter was not perfect, but he was a leaderwho cried, “You are the Christ”. Theimportance of the Holy Eucharist and theSacraments also need to be recognized, asthey are the living blood running through theCatholic “veins”.

BE FOREVER MISSIONARY“ Mary... Rabboni... GO! (John 20:11-18). Jesuscalls you by name - Jesus Youth. And when like

Mary you respond to the Saviour, you willbe sent on a mission as pilgrims. Believersare always SENT. The Church is Ecclesia –the sent out people of God. You always geta responsibility when you are “captured byChrist”. Be Thomas Christians. Like St.Thomas who went out on the tradingroutes, go out on the migrant routes to theworld.

BE FOREVER POORAlways be “with the poor” but always“against all forms of poverty”. Don’tsentimentalize poverty. It is not aChristian virtue. It is an assault on theGod who feeds His people with plenty.The poor and the oppressed of the worldare your special friends. If you becomerich, that is fine, but be more generous.Never let your possessions possess you.Only Jesus is to be our one treasure.

BE FOREVER LOVINGAND LITTLEGod is Love (‘Deus Caritas Est’). Love andhumility are so important to draw peopleto the Lord. Like St. Therese of Lisieux,“Love Jesus and make him loved”.

New Ecclesial Movements are agrace for the Catholic Church andthere have been many suchmovements in the history of theCatholic Church (e.g. Benedictine,Franciscan, etc). Some of these haveremained while some have vanishedinto history. What is quite uniqueabout these movements in our timeis that there is no one great leader-Saint (e.g. St. Benedict, St. Francis ofAssisi). Diffused throughout theworld, like an explosion of the HolySpirit, and largely led by lay people,this seems to be an answer to theprayer for a “New Pentecost” prayedby Pope John XXIII.

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GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

Mid Wales, and attended by 50 participants.Elvis Kottooran and Sanju Joseph were themain resource persons. ‘Spirit in the City’ Festival

Fourteen Jesus Youth Leaders participated inthe ‘Spirit in the City’ festival organized byWest End churches in Leicester Square,London on 7th June 2008.Sibi Joseph

KUWAIT

One-day Programme for leadersOver 140 JY leaders gathered for theleaders’ programme organized at Our Ladyof Arabia Church, Ahmadi on 18th April 2008.Fr. Antony Pulluvila O.C.D. celebrated HolyMass and Fr. Thomas Vadakedam took theafternoon session. Recommitment Day

Members of JY Kuwait celebratedRecommitment Day on 11th May 2008.Fr. Lionel, Principal, Don Bosco Schoolcelebrated the Holy Mass. Volunteers’ Training

A 15-day training was organised for 50youngsters by Chackochan Njavallil fromIndia. Forty-five participants have taken aone -year commitment to work in variouscamps / hostels. The commissioningceremony was led by Most Rev. CamilloBallin, Bishop of Kuwait.Mahesh Peter

IRELAND Leaders’ Growth Retreat

From 30th May to 2nd June, thirty-fiveyoungsters gathered for a leaders’ growthretreat at St. Columban’s Retreat Centre,Megharamore. Elvis Kottooran from Indiawas the main resource person, with Binu K.Pleading the music team. Fr. Sony Palathra,Fr. Anthony Nallukunnel and Fr. JimCampbell celebrated Holy Mass and heardConfessions.

Recommitment Day Celebrations On 10th May 2008, over 25 Jesus Youth fromdifferent parts of Ireland came together atSt. John the Baptist Church, Clontarff forrecommitting their lives and the movementto God. The anointing prayer ceremony andHoly Mass were led by Fr. Sony Palathra(Pastor, Jesus Youth Ireland).Tojy Tom

UK

Initial RetreatAn initial level retreat with 30 youngsterswas organised from 7th to 9th June 2008 atBelfast. Elvis Kottooran from India was themain resource person. Since most of theparticipants were couples, many sessionswere family oriented.

Leaders’ Growth RetreatA growth retreat for leaders was conductedfrom 23rd to 26th May 2008 at Cefn Lea Park,

AUSTRALIA Reconstitution, Melbourne Service Team

Over 30 Jesus Youth came together on 3rd

May 2008 at St Francis, Melbourne City forthe reconstitution of the JY ServiceTeam. Two Bishops - His ExcellencyChristopher Prowse and His Excellency TimCostello - were present to guide the groupduring the discernment process. BishopCostello’s message to the new team wasto ”Belong to each other, and therefore beresponsible for each other,” while BishopProwse continued to challenge them saying,“Jesus Youth, bring in the harvest… I wantyou to work with me.” JY Family Retreat

A gathering of 50 participants consisting ofall 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!”, theJY of Canada and their friends organized the4th annual ‘All4Him’ Praise & Worship concertin Toronto. The powerful event includedmusic, dance, choreography and skit. DavidMacDonald, a Canadian pro-life musician andevangelist inspired the crowd withhis presence and his touching testimony.Roy David


‘Crossroads ’08’, GermanyVolunteers’ Training, Kuwait

JY Melbourne Service Team, AustraliaLeaders’ Growth Retreat, UK ‘Campus Vibes 2008’, India

Leaders’ Growth Retreat, Ireland

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- 3295859 / 4054870, Fax: +91-484-2346084, Email : [email protected] : www.jesusyouth.org Editor-in-charge: Shelton Pinheiro Editorial Team: Beena Manoj, Anu Pinheiro, Jubie John & Deepa Sabu Layout: Sanil C.A. Printed by SR Graphics, Kottayam, Ph :+91 481-2301142

GERMANY

‘LichtBleiben’08’Twenty German youngsters, including twofrom Switzerland and one from Austria,participated in ‘LichtBleiben’08’ (‘Stay inthe Light’) held at St. Carolus, Boppard from28th – 30th March 2008. The retreat based onthe theme “You must live like people whobelong to the light” (Eph.5:8) was conductedin German by Fr. Peter Mayer.

‘Crossroads ’08’A 3-day initial retreat - ‘Crossroads ’08’was conducted in German from 9th -12th May2008 at St. Carolus, Boppard.There were 48participants. Fr. Peter Mayer was the keyresource person. Fr. Alex Tharaparambil andMs. Philo were also present during the lasttwo days. The retreat concluded with theRecommitment Day on Pentecost Monday ledby Fr. Ajy Mooleparambil - member, JYInternational Team and Pastor of JY Germany.Anil Israel

NEW ZEALAND

Leadership Training ProgrammeThe first ever Jesus Youth leadership trainingprogramme for New Zealand was conductedat Manaia Campsite, Whangarei from 24th –27th April 2008. Over 35 youngsters fromdifferent places like Christchurch, Rotorua,Hamilton, Auckland and Whangareiparticipated in the event. Manoj Sunny(Former JY International Co-ordinator),C. C. Joseph and Mayrose Pius (members, JYInternational Team) animated the programme.Following the training, zonal gatherings wereorganised in Christchurch, Hamilton andAuckland to discuss the future mission of JYNew Zealand. The first Jesus Youth NationalTeam has also been formed with Fr. JamesMulligan (Pastor), Assis Mathew (Animator),Soji Joseph (Co-ordinator), Saby Sebastian,

GLOBAL NEWSWATCH

MARY, QUEEN OF HEAVEN ANDMOTHER OF THE HUMAN FAMILY, WECONFIDENTLY ENTRUST TO YOU THEWHOLE OF HUMANITY, WITH ITSHOPES AND FEARS. SUSTAIN US ONOUR JOURNEY OF FAITH ANDOBTAIN FOR US THE GRACE OFETERNAL SALVATION.

Ferdin Antony and Johnson Jose.Soji Joseph

SINGAPORE

Jesus Net AnniversaryJesus Net, the central gathering of JYSingapore that takes place every firstSaturday of the month, celebrated itsSecond Anniversary on 3rd May 2008 atChurch of the Risen Christ, Toa Payoh. TomasIssac and Dr. Priya from India were the mainresource persons for the event.

JY National Team ReconstitutionThe JY National Team for Singapore wasreconstituted at the end of a two-day retreatheld from 16th to 18th May 2008 at ChoiceRetreat Centre. Manoj Sunny and GeorgeDevassy were the main resource persons forthe retreat. Shimy Stephen took over as thenew Co-ordinator and Ann Pius as Asst. Co-ordinator. The team has Fr. William Goh astheir Spiritual Director and Dr. MathewGeorge and Andrew Mendez as Animators.Ann Pius

INDIA

National Leaders’ Training, Nagpur.The JY National Team organized a NationalLeaders’ Training in Hindi at Seminary Hills,Nagpur from 15th to 30th June 2008. Therewere 27 participants from the northern andcentral states of India. Most Rev. AbrahamViruthakulangara, Archbishop of Nagpur,celebrated Holy Mass and led thecommitment ceremony. Annual Evaluation, Mumbai

The annual evaluation meeting of JY in Indiawas held at Mumbai on 24th & 25th May 2008with 105 participants from different parts of thecountry. The gathering was an occasion tounderstand the growth of the movement indifferent regions and to plan the journey ahead.

‘Chalo Meghalaya’‘Chalo Meghalaya’ was an initiative of theTeens Ministry, providing mission exposure toteenagers. There were 28 participants from 6states and 12 leaders including two nuns,one priest and an elder from Kerala. Theventure started with a retreat followed by atraining at Guwahati. The group thenproceeded to Shillong where they stayedfrom 11th to 18th May and visited schools,parishes and colleges and organizedprogrammes for young people.

‘Campus Vibes 2008’, Bangalore‘Campus Vibes’ - a new initiative by theNational Campus Ministry was held at HolyCross Convent Banarghatta, Bangalore from6th to 15th June 2008. There were 38participants representing 7 states acrossIndia. The programme aimed at understandingthe present youth culture and trends, andreaching out to campuses across India.Siljo Thomas

Contributors from different countries have rendered their help to make this issue of the Jesus Youth InternationalNewsletter 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 &Evelyn Richards (Australia), Theophile (Thailand), Rini Mathew (UK), Hazel Irimban (Canada), Shijimol Kurian (Ireland),Anna Born, Jothy Kalathilparampil & Vincenz (Germany), and Binu Abraham (USA) for all their inputs.

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

jesus youth international news letter august 2008

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