India: "U-Turn" event inspires Youth to Join Cafasso Squad and support Mumbai's Prison Ministry

On August 3, 2024, the "Cafasso Squad," in collaboration with Prison Ministry Mumbai and Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS), organized the "U-Turn" event, a youth night vigil at Matunga.

The event aimed to inspire young people to become active members of the "Cafasso Squad," a newly formed group within the Salesian Youth Movement of the Salesian Province of Mumbai (INB) dedicated to offering pastoral care to prisoners.

The evening began with a welcoming song from Prison Ministry Mumbai, setting a hopeful tone for the gathering.

Fr. Savio Silveira, INB Provincial, warmly greeted the attendees and shared a message of hope and encouragement.

Fr. Jervis D'Souza delivered an inspiring talk on personal development, followed by Fr. Glasten, the coordinator of the Bombay Archdiocese's Prison Ministry, who lit a bonfire to symbolize the light of hope.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining hope, even in the darkest of circumstances.

A presentation on the jail ministry provided attendees with valuable insights into the work being done to support prisoners.

Two former inmates shared their powerful testimonies, offering candid reflections on their struggles and triumphs, which deeply resonated with the young audience.

Members of the Cafasso Squad also shared their experiences, helping the youth develop a greater sense of empathy and understanding.

The night vigil featured a lively mix of competitions, activities, and vibrant musical performances by the band Youth United 4 Christ (YU4C).

Fr. Nicholas and DBYS led a profound Divine Mercy adoration session, while YU4C delivered an uplifting praise and worship performance, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere.

The young participants contributed to the evening's spirit by engaging in a creative project led by the Cafasso Squad, where they made bookmarks for children living in shelter homes, fostering empathy and social responsibility.

The event concluded with a Holy Eucharist in the shrine and a heartfelt vote of thanks from Sydelle.

Following the vigil, Sydelle encouraged the youth to join the Cafasso Squad and support the ongoing efforts of Mumbai's Prison Ministry.

Prison Ministry India (PMI) is a voluntary organization dedicated to the release, reformation, renewal, and rehabilitation of convicts.

Formally recognized by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) on August 24, 2000, PMI has since grown to include 6,000 volunteers working in approximately 850 units across India. The organization has established 28 rehabilitation facilities nationwide for freed men, women, teenagers, and children.

In addition to its national office in Bangalore, PMI operates four regional offices and a research center in Kerala.

The organization also publishes a monthly magazine, "Prison Voice," to raise awareness and support for its mission.

As a member of the International Commission of Catholic Prison Pastoral Care (ICCPPC) Global Prison Ministry, PMI continues to be a beacon of hope and transformation for those in need.