Over 600 young pilgrims from India are currently taking part in the Youth Jubilee underway in Rome, joining thousands from around the world in a celebration of faith, unity, and mission.
The Indian delegation includes a large group of 48 from the Archdiocese of Mumbai, among others. “The Youth Jubilee 2025 in Rome is not just a global celebration, it’s a personal faith journey for each young pilgrim,” said Fr. Chetan Machado, Executive Secretary of the National Youth Commission of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. Speaking to AsiaNews, he added, “Leading these young pilgrims is a privilege. Their joy and enthusiasm show that the Church is alive and vibrant in India.”
Participants describe the event as both a spiritual pilgrimage and a joyful cultural exchange. “Meeting youth from many nations, yet praying as one family, showed me that love travels farther than flags, one Church, one heart, many nations,” said Anto Gladwin from Mumbai, in remarks reported by AsiaNews. For him, the most moving moment was climbing the Holy Stairs on his knees. “I came with doubts, but I leave with deep gratitude, for His grace, His people, and this journey of faith.”
Other young Indian pilgrims echoed similar sentiments in their testimonies to AsiaNews. Teresa David from Ajmer shared that walking into St. Peter’s Square for the opening Mass gave her “goosebumps,” making her feel part of “a huge global Catholic family.”
From seeing Pope Leo XIV up close in the Popemobile to sharing songs and dances with fellow youth from across continents, Indian participants say the experience has strengthened their faith and deepened their sense of belonging in the universal Church.
“Rome feels like heaven on earth, joy, unity, and faith everywhere,” said Martin from the Diocese of Shimoga. Sister Prameela from Srikakulam remarked how witnessing the youthful faith on display gave her renewed hope for the Church in India.
For many, this pilgrimage marks the realization of a lifelong dream. Neslin Pinto from Mumbai noted, “From once watching the Vatican on television to now standing within its majestic walls, I felt truly blessed.” Nokme from Meghalaya said, “The songs and dances of our culture have found friends here. I feel proud to represent Northeast India and share our faith traditions with the world.”
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.
Latest News
