India: Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement celebrate the 21st Youth Sunday

The 21st Youth Sunday was celebrated across the state of Tamil Nadu, India, throughout the month of August, guided by the Pope's inspiring message from Isaiah 40:31: "Those who trust in the Lord will run and not grow weary."

Traditionally held on the first Sunday of August, this year’s celebrations extended throughout the month, reaching various regions and parishes across the state, placing special focus on youth engagement in both spiritual and social dimensions.

Bishop Nazarene Susai, chairman of the youth ministry, emphasized the importance of spiritual growth, personal development, and social involvement for young people.

In his message, he said, "Today's youth bear witness to the youthfulness of Jesus and His Kingdom through their social lives, running with perseverance, strengthened by their faith in Him. The Church calls on youth to become mature believers and powerful agents of social change."

He further encouraged the youth to emulate the faith and dedication of Mary, the young woman of Nazareth, who responded to God's call with unwavering commitment.

"Our youth must be deeply rooted in the Christian faith, spreading Christ's mission to various places and tirelessly fulfilling the Lord's work. May Mary, who said 'Here I am' to God’s call and fulfilled it without weariness, be a model for all of us," he added.

Youth Sunday was also an occasion to highlight the Church’s closeness to the younger generation and their vital role in its mission. “Such celebrations reaffirm the Church’s closeness to them and the significant role they play in the Church's mission,” Bishop Susai remarked.

Abishek Raja, Thudippu Magazine coordinator and Sub-Editor of the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (TNCYM), spoke about the deep connection between the Christian community and social transformation.

“From the very beginning, the Christian community has not only been involved in spreading the Gospel but has also played a significant role in various social changes,” he said.

He expressed pride in being part of TNCYM, stating, "As a Christian youth, Youth Sunday reinforced my sense of responsibility towards society."

Mr. Edison, secretary of Tamil Nadu Youth Commission of Tamil Nadu Bishop's Council, encouraged young people to engage with the elderly as a core part of the celebrations.

Responding to this call, youth groups across Tamil Nadu visited elderly individuals who were isolated or without care, cleaning their homes, providing new clothes, preparing meals, and spending meaningful time with them.

The celebrations also saw significant contributions from the Young Catholic Students (YCS) movement, which operates in schools under the banner of the Young Students Movement (YSM).

New YCS groups were formed in several parishes, and their members actively participated in Youth Sunday prayers and activities.

In a show of solidarity, youth from the Ooty Diocese travelled to Wayanad to aid those affected by landslides, while the Dharmapuri Diocese youth focused on raising awareness about drug prevention. Additionally, sports competitions were held at the diocesan level in several regions.

The event was marked by vibrant traditions, including the raising of a flag and the sound of drum music to greet attendees before the Mass.

During the offering procession, young people distributed essential items for the elderly, including food, clothing, fruits, vegetables, hygiene products, and even tree saplings and medicinal plants, symbolizing care for both the elderly and the environment.

A poignant moment followed the Mass, as the youth read the preamble to the Constitution with the assembly, symbolizing unity and shared responsibility.

Youth Sunday was celebrated with a variety of programs in all 18 dioceses across Tamil Nadu, underscoring the Church's focus on empowering its younger generation to lead with faith, love, and social responsibility.