Shepherding Youth with Faith and Hope: 12th National Youth Directors Meeting of CCBI

The 12th National Youth Directors Meeting of the CCBI Youth Commission was held in Verapoly, Kerala, on August 20–21. The event, hosted at the Ashirbhavan Pastoral Centre in the Diocese of Verapoly, brought together youth directors from across India.

The inaugural Mass was celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Antony Valunkal of Verapoly, along with Bishop Ignatius D’Souza, Chairman of the CCBI Youth Commission; Bishop Jaya Rao Polimera of Eluru; Auxiliary Bishop Christudas Rajappan of Trivandrum; and key members of the Youth Commission, including Fr. Chetan Machado and Fr. John Barman.

In his homily, Bishop Jaya Rao underlined that "Christian leadership is not about privilege but about service and responsibility." He urged the youth directors to flourish in their roles, to reject negativity, and to nurture faith among young people. He reminded them that directors are shepherds rather than mere organizers, drawing courage from the Word of God, and that inclusive leadership is essential.

The inaugural session welcomed a wide range of participants: bishops, commission secretaries, regional and diocesan youth directors, and representatives from ICYM and YCS/YSM national teams.

In his presidential address, Bishop Ignatius D’Souza emphasized the need to listen attentively to young people and to witness Christ through faith, joy, and holiness, even amid the challenges of youth ministry. Bishop Christudas Rajappan spoke about the deep connection between Christian witness and hope, affirming that "where there is love, there is hope," a foundation for effective youth ministry.

Bishop Jaya Rao also delivered the keynote address, offering further insights and encouragement. The first day included a question-and-answer session with the bishops, reports on the commission’s achievements, and the reading of minutes from the previous meeting.

Over the two days, participants engaged in discussions on mission priorities, best practices, regional reports, consultative sessions, action plans, and collaborations with other youth movements.

A total of 121 participants, including regional and diocesan directors, members of the CCBI National Council, the Advisory Body, the National Team, and coordinators of other youth organizations, took part in the gathering.