The Diocese of Rajshahi in northwestern Bangladesh hosted a day-long seminar on adolescence and Christian formation for school-going youth at the Presentation of Our Lord Parish in Sursunipara on August 22.
The event brought together 225 high school students and 15 youth volunteers from various villages within the parish, aiming to guide them through a crucial stage of life in the light of Christian values. Organized with the support of the Rajshahi Diocesan Family Life Commission, the seminar carried the inspiring theme: “Christ is the Light of Our Hope.”
Parish Priest Father Prodip Joseph Costa said, “The Lord Jesus loves the youth because they are full of energy. Today’s young people are the future leaders of the family, society, country, nation, and the Church. In this Jubilee Year, the Lord is calling young people to dedicate themselves to the service of God and humanity by using the strength of their youth.”
The seminar began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Father Suresh Purification, Director of Pope Paul VI Seminary, Bonpara. In his homily, he stated, “Young people are the lifeblood of the Church. One day, they will take on the responsibility of leading it. Therefore, they must discover their personal vocations and prepare themselves for future service.”
Father Uttam Rozario conducted a session on Christian religious education, emphasizing the importance of reading the Holy Bible, regular participation in the Eucharist, adherence to the Ten Commandments of God, the Five Precepts of the Church, and the significance of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer in Christian life.
Benedict Murmu gave a lively presentation on the challenges of adolescence, discussing its characteristics, significance, and the appropriate actions during this important period.
Deacon Anu Gomes provided a detailed presentation on the YCS (Young Christian Students) movement. He said, “Through active participation in the YCS movement, young boys and girls can shape their lives according to Christian values. Therefore, it is important to strengthen this movement in every village and parish center.”
Sharing her experience, participant Smriti Hansda said, “I am truly delighted to have learned about the importance of reading the Holy Bible through this seminar. From now on, I will regularly read the Bible.”
Another participant, Piyal Kisku, added, “I didn’t have much understanding about adolescence before. Through this seminar, I have learned a lot about it. Now, I will be more aware of my responsibilities.”
The event successfully combined spiritual nourishment with personal development, equipping young minds with tools to navigate adolescence while staying rooted in Christian values. The Church reaffirmed its commitment to walking alongside youth in their journey of growth and faith.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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