The e-face of Jesus Youth Inside Stuff Jesus Youth International Gathering World Youth Day

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1 A MISSIONARY MOVEMENT AT THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH Inside Stuff Inside Stuff The e-face of JY Heart Talk JY lifestyle-radiating Joy Attuned to God s Heartbeat JYGPNS April - July 2004 An Office with a Difference The Tree of Life Global Newswatch World Youth Day & Jesus Youth International Gathering Germany, Cologne Road to Cologne Are you getting set to join the Jesus Youth pilgrims preparing for World Youth Day 2005 in Cologne? Well, here are the two phases of the pilgrimage to get you started. Phase I - World Youth Day 11th -14th August Youth Arise International Festival Essen, Germany 15th-16th August Jesus Youth International Gathering Cologne, Germany 16th-21st August World Youth Day Celebrations Cologne, Germany Phase II - Pilgrimages 22nd -25th August Taizé & Lourdes - France 26th-29th August Rome & Assisi - Italy For information on how to be part of the event, contact us at jyglobal@jesusyouth.org The e-face of Jesus Youth Check us out on jesusyouth-dot-org! Here s the lingo that would acquaint today s e-generation with the Jesus Youth homepage. Jesus Youth was one of the pioneering Catholic Movements to have a website of its own, right from the early days of the Internet era. Over the years, as the Movement grew and expanded internationally, the website too underwent a major facelif t. Improved features were incorporated to enable easy access to information on the Movement to Jesus Youth spread across the globe. The new website was launched on 12 th January, 2004 by one of our veteran Jesus Youth leaders - Dr. Edward Edezhath. Af ter launching it, Eddy navigated the various features of the site. The launch was simultaneously displayed on an LCD singapor projector for all those present. It was a solemn function attended by quite a few Jesus Youth from India and abroad. canada.jesusyouth.org india.jesusyouth.org kuwait.jesusyouth.org oman.jesusyouth.org singapore.jesusyouth.or e.jesusyouth.org uae.jesusyouth.org uk.jesusyouth.org w w w.jesusyouthofamerica.net The new homepage provides an overview of the Movement - its history and milestones, spirituality and charisms, style of functioning, and details on its various ministries. It hosts web pages that are specific to each country with a Jesus Youth presence. Information and contact details on local Jesus Youth are available on their respective pages. The event finder provides information on local events and activities in each country. The prayer group browser furnishes details about local prayer groups and prayer meeting timings. The website is equipped with an e-library that provides youth animation resource material that is downloadable. The links page provides hyperlinks to Jesus Youth related sites and various other sites on Catholic resources, teachings, etc. Intercession being the backbone of Jesus Youth, the website has an active online intercession network known as Prayernet. Prayer requests are received here daily and intercessors located in dif ferent parts of the world raise them up in prayer. Prayer requests can be sent to prayernet@jesusyouth.org. For mutual support and frequent contact with Jesus Youth in other parts of the world, a loving online e-community was formed, named JOYnet. This virtual community, perhaps the only one of its kind, has an ever growing strength of over one thousand members. They share personal God encounter testimonies and edifying experiences, and hold discussions on teachings of the Chruch and other issues. contd on page 3 1

2 I believe that one of the greatest privileges I enjoy is getting to meet new people who have accepted Jesus and found new life in Him through this Spirit-led platform - Jesus Youth. Over the last 3 months I got to travel through 8 countries and had the opportunity of meeting many youngsters who consider Jesus Youth to be their own family and testified to the change that has taken place in their lives. The new beginnings of this Movement in Germany, Malaysia and Sri Lanka serve to strengthen our faith and confirmation that the Spirit is at work, using us to reach out to many. Here s an interesting fact I noticed during these trips most of the Jesus Youth in these countries are from India, but more than 90% of the members and leaders experienced God in a personal way only af ter reaching there, through coming into contact with the local Jesus Youth network. This shows how effectively we ve been carrying out our core mission evangelisation. I was happy to see that our network provides a platform for fellowship for the Jesus Youth who leave India. But it gave me greater joy to see how God is using it to bring the Good News to many others in the countries to which Jesus Youth migrate, thereby enabling them to be part of the fellowship. After the Jesus Youth Middle East gathering in Oman, I was asked, What is your dream for Jesus Youth in Asia 10 years from now? I shared my dream with them a dream about an Asia where committed Jesus Youth/ Christians serve in key decision making positions in various parts of Asia, thus influencing policies and decisions with a Christian perspective, and sharing the Good News with those around them through an evangelistic lifestyle. If you really want to spread the Good News in the world s largest continent, the continent on which Jesus was born, the one that holds more than half the world s population, and where less than one percent are Catholics (excluding the Philippines), we need to pay a price. We need lifetime missionaries; we need people who can take a commitment to work fulltime for a few years. But more than that, we need people who can commit all of their lives; who, with their professional excellence, missionary zeal and joyful witness can win many for Christ. Let these words of our beloved Holy Father, move us to action...missionary activity renews the Church, revitalizes faith and Christian identity, and offers fresh enthusiasm and new incentive. Faith is strengthened when it is given to others! (John Paul II; Redemptoris Missio, 2) May the victory of our Risen Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ always shine forth in our lives and lead us on to greater heights! Manoj Sunny Co-ordinator, Jesus Youth International Team for a lifetime Jesus Youth lifestyle Radiating Joy Introducing a series of reflections on the defining characteristics of Jesus Youth. Jesus Youth, sometimes referred to as the smiling people, radiate joy wherever they are. Quite often, this is in striking contrast to youth caught in the ruthless rat-race of the modern world. And within this disheartening milieu, the tremendous joy, mutual respect and valuable friendships - a veritable celebration of life - is what sets the Jesus Youth apart. Somehow, a contagious joy shines forth even amidst their daily crosses and suf ferings. At times I wonder where this joy, from which flows all the creativity of Jesus Youth, comes from. And the answer is invariably the same. It is the fruit of a deep inner discovery of themselves - the discovery of their true identity and the realization that they are God s children. Secondly, they find a meaning for their lives. And thirdly, this joy is the fruit of embarking on new adventures in faith everyday until it becomes a living reality for them. I have heard many people ask, How do you maintain this joyfulness in the face of hatred, rejection, malice, misunderstandings and even an uncertain future? Well, the call of Jesus Youth is to respond to these situations in a positive way. As they see it, these are challenges that will leave them stronger, bolder and humbler. When I look back on my own life, I realize that teenage and youth is a time of great tests and trials, and not a time when one can be very joyful. Changes in body, mind and surroundings can be disturbing. But what brings about this joyfulness in a Jesus Youth? First of all there is the quiet time with God. A time of prayer and silence before the Creator, when all confusions and challenges are surrendered into His hands. It is a perfect launch pad for a joyful life. An important aspect is constant encouragement that comes from books, fellowship, the Word of God and inspiring lives and from the understanding that one is not alone even in the midst of struggles. Yet another source of joy stems from truly genuine friendships rooted in values, which is often a defining feature in the lives of Jesus Youth. An essential ingredient for a joyful life is the courage to share. Francis of Assisi says, It is in giving that we receive. If only we are able to live creative lives by helping others carry their burdens, can we be truly joyful. Today, Jesus Youth as a Movement has discovered the secret of joyfulness in this storm-tossed world. And the secret is simple. A moment - by - moment resting in the heart of God. So, if you are a Jesus Youth, and if you are creative, make this deep experience of resting in the Heart of God a habit and you will radiate joy. Dr.. Edward d Edezhath One of the founder members of the Jesus Youth Movement and an animator of the Jesus Youth International Team, Dr. Edezhath is known for his extensive understanding of youth trends and culture. A professor at St. Albert s College in Ernakulam, he lives with his wife Audry and three children in Cochin, India. 2

3 being jesus youth Attuned to God s heartbeat The RexBand s lead guitarist and vocalist Alphons Joseph, is today one of the most sought af ter upcoming music directors in the Malayalam film industry. In an interview for this issue, he spoke to Josun Jose about his journey of faith as a Jesus Youth, which has been one of obedience in seeking God s will. Some excerpts: Josun: You have been en very active in Jesus Youth for over twelve years. Could you tell us something about your initial renewal experience and how you became a Jesus Youth? e-face of Jesus Youth Alphons: Af ter my tenth standard I attended my first Charismatic retreat where I realized that God loves me personally and has a plan for my life. There were a few Jesus Youth helping as volunteers at the retreat, who introduced themselves and befriended me. Later, they invited me to a Jesus Youth gathering. Initially I felt a bit shy, but their constant follow-up and regular visits to my home gradually made me feel comfortable with the group. Campus Meet 89" in Vimala College, Trichur was the first Jesus Youth Conference I attended. I helped with the mobilization, making charts and posters for the conference. Those were my early days as a Jesus Youth. J: What about your involvement in music, and later in the RexBand? A: Right from my 10 th standard I used to perform in secular music troupes that went around giving shows. But after becoming a Jesus Youth, my priorities changed. Secular programmes took a backseat. With my musical talent, I was already part of my local Jesus Youth music ministry. Later, I was invited to be part of the RexBand. RexBand shows were quite popular, and the Lord used this team to lay the foundation for the great things He had in store for me. It was a very joyful time then, even though I wasn t making much money as I had left my Western music band in college, and it gave me great joy to witness to Jesus through music. J: You mentioned turning down secular music programmes and leaving your Western band in college, all for Jesus. How is it that you have now taken it up again? Did you feel el it was a waste? A: Initially I had an inner conflict as those secular programmes used to bring in a lot of money and by turning them down I faced a financial crunch. But after praying over it and seeking God s guidance, I made a decision to choose Jesus above everything else. Many of my old friends used to chide me saying I was wasting my life and ruining my career. They were making good money by then. But when I look back on those 10 or 12 years that I was away from the secular music world, I can see that God was forming my character during that period and strengthening my inner self. He was doing something in my life, that otherwise would never have been possible. Even though it was tough financially, not to mention the popularity and fame that I was throwing away, I was still very happy and joyful, because I had found Jesus and could witness to His Love. Through my involvement in the RexBand, God brought me in contact with many leading musicians and other respected personalities in the music field. He gave me an entry into the Malayalam film industry, as no other music director has ever had. My first film s music release was done by the great legend A. R. Rahman. On that awesome occasion, in the midst of many film personalities and celebrities, I testified to what God s love had done in my life. All this would never have happened had I not responded to that moment contd on page 6 The large exodus of Jesus Youth in the mid 90 s brought about the need to have a common platform for communication. Thus, in June 1997, we registered jesusyouth.org. I thank God for using me to initiate the JY website, which, apart from establishing an Internet presence for the Movement, is also a meeting place in cyberspace for JY s around the world. Manoj Jons David- Initiator of JY website. IT professional based in Cochin. The need for a virtual community for Jesus Youth was felt for JY s around the world to keep in touch, share their experiences and grow in fellowship. Thus JOYnet was started in It gives me great joy to see the way God is using this platform for the mutual encouragement and support of JY s all over the world. Mathew Joseph - Initiator and coordinator of JOYnet. IT professional based in Hyderabad. Today, the Internet is a vital link between people across the world, especially among youngsters. jesusyouth.org is an attempt to share the message of Jesus with others through the web. I consider it an honour to work with the JY webteam and I feel it is a part of God s special plan to involve me in His great work. I enjoy being part of it. Giju George ge- Current web administrator. IT professional based in Chennai. Designing the new JY website was indeed a great privilege for me. I could feel the power of the Holy Spirit, the source of all creativity, inspiring me as I worked. This effort came as a natural response to the promptings of the Spirit. Jacob Jose- Designer of the new Jesus Youth website. Freelance web designer based in Bangalore. contd from page 1 Being the e-face of the Movement, the homepage reaches people from varied walks of life across the globe. The website receives on an average one hundred and twenty thousand hits per month, even from countries like Ghana, the Bahamas, Seychelles and Tanzania, apart from the regular countries where Jesus Youth is active. So why not stop by to visit our homepage? And do return of ten for updates on the Movement. Come and be a part of JOYnet. Be inspired to carry on your walk with Jesus undeterred by the ups and downs of life. Send in your prayer requests to Prayernet. Tell your friends and acquaintances about us and get them as well to check us out on Josun Jose - An active Jesus Youth from Delhi, this budding writer has been involved in developing the content of the JY Newsletter as editor-in-charge from its pilot issue. 3

4 mission bound Project - JYGPNS The prophetic words of our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, as he ushered in this new Millenium, that a great harvest of faith will be reaped in the land of Asia still rings powerfully in the hearts of many even today. The vast potential of today s Asian economy presents tremendous opportunities hitherto unheard of for qualified professionals. Global markets are today concentrating on Asian countries more than ever before. In India, Jesus Youth has got a wide network of prayer groups covering professional colleges across the land from where many committed persons have passed out and continue to carry on the mission of Jesus wherever they are, using their profession, talents and every other resource at their disposal. In order to network these committed Jesus Youth scattered in various parts of the world and to link them to the mainstream of the Movement, Jesus Youth International has initiated a new project - Jesus Youth Global Positioning and Networking System (JYGPNS). This project will have two thrust areas of functioning. The first will be to maintain a database of Jesus Youth who migrate to different parts of the world and keep them updated on developments in the movement. This network will enable us to link them with our existing contacts in their respective countries and explore possibilities of coordinated mission activities. The second area will be to explore job and career opportunities, especially in Asian countries, for those professionals who have a missionary zeal, so that along with their secular jobs they can continue being heralds of the Gospel in these lands. Professionals with a missionary zeal seeking job opportunities in any Asian country and those wishing to get in touch with our contacts in their respective countries in order to be part of a co-ordinated mission effort may please send a mail to jyglobal@jesusyouth.org with JYGPNS in the subject line. 4 For Gim Killian, the pop singer from Germany, it was a new experience. She had arrived in India to sing the German version of the World Youth Day theme song entry by the RexBand. As she stepped into the Jesus Youth Office and the RexBand studio, she was full of questions. Why a chapel in an of fice? Do you pray everyday in the of fice? Does a priest live here? Fr. Abraham Pallivathukal SJ blessing the Of fice While trying to explain the office and its purpose to her, it also struck me that the very concept of the Jesus Youth office was exciting in today s world. To explain, I ll have to take you through a quick tour of our new Jesus Youth of fice. Flanked by offices of multinational corporations, the new Jesus Youth Of fice is on the sixth floor of a premium corporate space in Cochin, India. A cluster of offices including Jesus Youth International, Jesus Youth National, Ark Power Controls Pvt Ltd., Portescap India and the Rexband studio take up the entire floor. Ark Power Controls deals with Portescap and Deltaline, both multinational companies An Office with a Difference Give thanks with a grateful heart... manufacturing micro motors. Some of the Directors of these organisations are personally involved in Jesus Youth and their generosity is one of the factors that make it possible for Jesus Youth to have an of fice in such a prime location. The beautiful chapel, designed by a Jesus Youth interior designer is the centre point of the office. And the soundproof RexBand studio with its advanced recording equipment is where the music recordings of the Jesus Youth take place. The beautiful crucifix in the JY Office Chapel In a world where realms of faith and profession are segregated within watertight compartments, the questions are obvious. What is a chapel doing next to a motor testing lab? How do we reconcile the competitive business transactions with the atmosphere of prayer? But looking at it closely, I see a pattern emerge. Isn t this of fice itself a parable of the Jesus Youth attitude of sanctifying every realm of activity by the presence of Jesus? Isn t it a refreshing change in a world trying to squeeze spirituality into a personal mould? The first recording in the RexBand Studio Moreover, the functioning of this office illustrates how our professional resources can support the spiritual needs of many. The directors of the adjacent offices who have set aside their resources, the Jesus Youth from across the world who bear the expenses for the of fice equipment, and many other professionals who have contributed in countless ways, Fr. Antony Urulianickal CMI inaugurating the Studio have done so without seeking any apparent commercial benefit. The recent inauguration of the offices and the studio and the launch of the Jesus Youth website itself was a testimony to the unique character of this office. A spectrum of dignitaries from the corporate world and the Jesus Youth Movement came together on 12 th January And the beautiful function, unlike any other, seamlessly integrated prayer, worship and business discussions. In a world trying to keep faith away from the mainstream culture, the message that this office offers is clear Take Jesus to the happening places of today s world! Shelton Pinheiro A Jesus Youth for over a decade and the lead singer and song writer of the RexBand, he currently works as creative head in an advertising agency.

5 The Tree of Life The short film Tree of Life is a commendable endeavour by Leo Thaddeus to transform the language of the visual media in the light of positive values, remarked Josy Joseph a renowned film critic on the occasion of the premiere of the film in the presence of a select group of media persons, creative professionals and businessmen in Cochin, India. The event was inaugurated by the renowned cartoonist Yesudasan. The slickly produced short film revolves around the dilemma of a modern nuclear family and their 10 year old son Jerry. The fastpaced, stress-ridden lifestyles of the mother who is an advertising professional and the father, a gynaecologist, add to the problem. dreaming big... Leaders Conference-2003 A memorable event in the history of Jesus Youth was the Jesus Youth Leaders Conference, held in Thrissur from 19 th to 23 rd December, About 600 Jesus Youth leaders from 21 zones of Kerala participated in this conference. The focus was on the following five areas: Jesus Youth Spirituality, Jesus Youth Lifestyle, Commitment, Role and Functioning of Service Teams and Jesus Youth Charisms. This leaders conference, unlike others, had very few lecture sessions and more of interactive workshops and group sessions. A lot of effort went into the making of the resource material that was brought out in booklet form. It received wide acclaim and is now being used for many Jesus Youth formation programmes. His Grace Bishop Thomas Chakkiath celebrated the Holy Eucharist on the second day. On the last day His Grace Bishop John Thattungal was the main celebrant for the Eucharist. The conference came to a close with a colourful musical extravaganza by RexBand for which His grace Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy was the chief guest. MISSIONS AND ZONES Jesus Youth in Kerala has got twenty one zones. In the year 1997, during the conference Jesus Youth 97, 28 Indian States were adopted by the various Jesus Youth zones in Kerala. Since then, Jesus Youth from various zones have been visiting their adopted States and conducting mission outreaches there. Now there is a vibrant Jesus Youth presence in several of these States. Renowned cartoonist Yesudasan inaugurating the screening of Tree of life in Cochin Set during the Christmas season, the life of the couple grinds to a halt as they try to wrestle with conflicting opinions on whether to abort their second child or not. The film exposes the selfishness and insecurity that runs beneath the seemingly placid husbandwife relationship. It also reveals the impact of this turmoil on their son. The work raises disturbing questions on relationships, career, decisions and the value of life itself. A talented bunch of young upcoming technicians and artistes is the force behind this pioneering project, said Leo Thaddeus. He also added that the inspiration for the film came from a conversation he had with a Jesus Youth pro-life volunteer a few years back. Leo Thaddeus, who earned his Diploma in Mass Communication with a specialization in film from the Gregorian University, Italy, is a prominent name in the theatre and movie scenario in Kerala. A former Jesus Youth Central Team Member and one of the pioneers of the Jesus Youth Audio Visual Ministry, Leo has already directed various short films, ad films and documentaries. The film is a JY presentation produced by Mampillil Brothers and will be promoted through film symposiums, film festivals, VCD distributions, etc. The Jesus Youth International Of fice will promote the film wherever possible. For more details contact jyglobal@jesusyouth.org JY Leaders Conference 2003 witnessed a step forward along the same lines. This time 49 Asian countries were adopted by the various Jesus Youth zones in Kerala. Intercession for these countries by their respective zones has begun. In God s time Jesus Youth missionaries will visit these lands with the message of God s love and be heralds of the Gospel there. You too can be a part of this move of the Spirit by interceding for these countries. The twenty-one zones of Jesus Youth in Kerala and their mission countries are given below. Kasargode Bangladesh, Armenia Kannur Laos, Azerbaijan Thalassery Bhutan, Kazakhstan Mananthavady North Korea Calicut Pakistan, Georgia, Oman Trichur Myanmar [Burma], Russia, Qatar Palakad Vietnam, Kyrgyzstan Irinjalakkuda Cambodia, Moldova, Syrian Arab Republic Angamali Singapore, Tajikistan Ernakulam China, Ukraine, U.A.E. Zonal representatives with the flags of their mission countries Kothamangalam Thalaind, Belarus, Kuwait Kattapana tapana Malaysia, Turkmenistan Idukki The Phillipines, Uzbekistan Kottayam tayam Nepal, Bahrain Pala Japan, Brunei, Darussalam Kanjirappally Taiwan, Iran, Turkey Changanassery Indonesia, Cyprus, Yemen Cherthala Mongolia, Iraq Alappuzha Afghanistan, Lebanon Kollam South Korea, Jordan Thiruvanathapuram Sri Lanka, Israel 5

6 Ripples of the Spirit JY Karnataka Campuses on fire: The Campus Ministry in Karnataka is quite vibrant in Bangalore, Mangalore and Mysore. Almost 400 campus youth participated in the recently The Holy Spirit is sparking off exhaustive and innovative initiatives through the Jesus Youth for diverse groups in the State of Karnataka. Jesus Youth Leaders Gathering: The Jesus Youth Leaders Gathering of Karnataka was truly a time of grace. Breaking the barriers of language, distance and culture, they came together in Bangalore from 19 th to 21 st February, The focus of the conference was on orienting the leaders gathered to reach out to every corner of Karnataka. Around 130 leaders from varied cultural backgrounds, representing 11 districts of Karnataka were present. The JYIT Coordinator Manoj Sunny, JYNT coordinator Joseph C.C. and JYIT member Chackochan Njavallil animated the programme. held campus programme Harvest The regular prayer meeting in Christ College, Bangalore draws over 60 students from colleges in the city. Nurses alive: The numerous nursing schools and hospitals in the State of fer tremendous opportunities for the Nurses Ministry. Prayer groups have already been initiated in various nursing schools and hospitals across the State. A mega programme targeting around 800 participants has been planned for May Professionals geared ed up: The first Professionals Discipleship Training Programme was conducted in Bangalore, the IT capital of India, during the semester vacation of the professional students. A Professionals Conference also took place at Dharmaram, Bangalore from 16 th to 18 th of April Parishes in the forefr efront: Parish activities are picking up in Shimoga with the support and encouragement of the MCBS congregation. In many regions, Jesus Youth programmes are now being conducted in the local languages. In addition to Bangalore, Jesus Youth Ministry is also active in 10 other districts of Karnataka. Enlivening the Church: The Archbishop of Bangalore and the Bishop of Belthangady Diocese have been extremely supportive of the initiatives of Jesus Youth in Karnataka. His Excellency Lawrence Mukkuzhy has even mentioned in his Diocesian bulletin that the Jesus Youth presence in his parishes is a blessing. Power of Prayer: Almost 300 Jesus Youth gather together every Saturday for a vibrant Night Vigil that is fast becoming a powerhouse of prayer. Besides, numerous intercessory initiatives are also sprouting all over the State. contd from page 3 Attuned to God s heartbeat of grace over a decade ago. I can see the fruit of that formation now. Those years were never a waste for me. I believe God has brought me into this industry for His greater purpose. To see His Kingdom come in this industry is the cry of my heart. If ever the Lord prompts me to leave the film world, I ll have no second thoughts about it. I ll just obey. Jesus knows what is best for my life. J: Tell us more about how you are able to witness Jesus in your profession. A: From the outside, one can only see the fairytale glamour of this industry. In reality the picture is quite dif ferent. Ego clashes are frequent here. Addiction to liquor and loose living are the norm for many in this industry. 6 The formation and chiselling of character I received as a Jesus Youth taught me how to keep my ego under control. I ve learnt how to work with dif ferent types of people and to be flexible and adjustable without losing my identity. This has been a great asset for me in winning the hearts of big guns in the industry - they like working with me. At a meeting for one of my recent projects, the producer enquired, What would be a good day to start the project? I replied, Any day is fine with me, Sir, and one of his assistants remarked, Alphons always prays before doing anything, so whatever he does will be blessed. Another time, a friend in the industry asked me where I went early in the morning every day. For Holy Mass, I replied. At that time he was going through a crisis in his life. He accompanied me to Church the next day, and we both spent quite some time in the presence of the Lord. I could share God s love with him. Months later, he phoned me up saying that that day s experience before the Lord was unforgettable. I have had many such experiences. People watch us, and more than anything we say, it is our life witness that influences others. I am glad to say I m not alone; there are many in this industry who stand for Jesus and his values. J: Tell us something about your struggles, your prayer life and fellowship in Jesus Youth. A: I have all the struggles of a normal human being, but I have the conviction that I am not alone. Jesus is with me in all that I go through. My greatest strength comes from daily Mass where I surrender all my tensions and struggles. Even when I am busy with hectic schedules, I try never to miss Holy Mass. The Blessed Virgin has intervened in my life at very crucial moments and I am devoted to her. I often pray the rosary and always invite Mother Mary to be part of my projects and recordings. I feel her constant intercession for me every moment. I m very particular about fellowship, because it is always strengthening to be in the company of people who love God. And in a profession like mine where people don t have time for others and everyone is busy minting money, good Christian fellowship is a necessity, not an option. My priorities are still the same - God first before anything else. That is my lifestyle even today. I arrange my recordings in such a way that they don t clash with Jesus Youth programmes. I always try to make myself available for RexBand programmes and Jesus Youth activities. Good Christian fellowship is something I cannot do without. J: What would you like to tell your Jesus Youth brothers and sisters around the world with regar egard to their talents and their walk with Jesus? A: I have only one thing to tell my fellow Jesus Youth all over the world. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. But we need to be careful here. Let us never follow Jesus for the things that will be added unto us. Follow Him for who He is. With regard to talents, I feel that every human life has a purpose ordained by God. Our duty as Jesus Youth should be to identify through prayer and seeking God s will, those charisms that God has endowed us with. After identifying your talent or charism, keep thanking God for it, work hard and practise daily. Then strive to fulfill God s purpose in giving you this talent. Jesus Youth is a wonderful platform to help you identify your talents, and use them for the greater glory of God. When we give the little we have to Jesus, like the little boy who gave his five loaves and two fish, Jesus multiplies it for His glory in beautiful ways. So give your all to Jesus. I have seen how when I give my time, my talent, my all to Jesus, he multiplies it and many are blessed.

7 Global Newswatch Global Newswatch together. The guest speaker was Dan USA Dirkes, of a local Life Teen programme. The gathering came to a close with the participants being reminded of their motto, Each one, catch one! Under the initiative of their Spiritual Director Fr. Thomas Tharayil, the Jesus Youth of America have started a National Prayer Vigil. Jesus Youth across the country spend half an hour for intercession anytime between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. on the first night of every month. Volunteers undertake prayer through fasting, participating in the Eucharist and spending time in adoration. This initiative is to be a regular feature throughout the year. Every Friday night, about 70 Jesus Youth of the Chicago region, gather for a night vigil with one night of the month being dedicated to prayer in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Christeen en Retreat eat A great milestone for Jesus Youth in the US was the Christeen retreat that took place on March 13th this year. Over 200 children of various rites registered from the local Chicago region to participate in this programme. This is the first time that Jesus Youth of America have organized a programme of this magnitude for children. Music and skits were well taken care of by the Jesus Youth teens and college students. Five priests assisted in hearing confessions. A lot of intercession and prayer went in weeks prior to the programme. The final blessing was given by His Excellency Mar Jacob Angadiath, Bishop of Chicago Syro-Malabar diocese. NE Regional Bi-monthly Gathering The first NE regional gathering of the year 2004 was held on January 24 th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Fr. Kevin McGoldrick was the guest speaker. The second gathering took place on March 24 th in New Jersey, wherein about 100 youth came Oman Night Vigil in Ruwi Around 200 youth from three parishes of Oman gathered in Ruwi Church for a night vigil. Manoj Sunny was present and spoke of his personal God experience and also elaborated on the global vision of Jesus Youth. Biju Antony, the coordinator of Jesus Youth Kuwait was also present. Oman gets a Core Team A Jesus Youth National Team was formed in Oman. Mr. Bobby Jacob was elected Co-ordinator. A regional coordinating team was also formed for the parishes of Ruwi, Ghala and Sohar. Middle East Gathering Jesus Youth from various countries of the Middle East gathered in Oman from January 31 st to February 1 st for the Middle East Gathering. Present and past activities were discussed with a thrust to reach out to those countries where Jesus Youth is still without an active presence. Oman JY Leaders Training Camp A Leaders Training Camp was held from 2 nd to 3 rd February, 2004 for the youth in Oman. Fif ty committed leaders participated in this first livein programme organised by the Oman Jesus Youth. Sessions were conducted on constants, vision and role of JY, prayer groups, cell groups, etc. India JYNT Intercession Day 29 th February 2004 was observed as National Intercession Day by the Jesus Youth National Network. Two intentions were taken up for intercession. One was for the forthcoming parliamentary elections, that the right candidates may get elected. The second was for the re-constitution of JYNT. The National intercession Day was celebrated on a grand scale in many regions of India where Jesus Youth is active namely, Manipal, Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Chennai, Mangalore, Kerala, Assam, Rajasthan and Jagdalpur. Retreats eats in Bongaigaon-Assam In February 2004, a team of Jesus Youth fulltimers led by Mrs. Annie John conducted five retreats for the youth of Bongaigaon Diocese in Assam. The Bishop of Bongaigaon Diocese, Most Rev. Thomas Pulloppillil, invited the Jesus Youth Movement to continue following up the youth in his diocese. Jesus Youth Retreat eat in Nagaland About 200 youngsters from various parishes of Kohima Diocese participated in a three-day retreat starting from 11 th December, His Grace, Bishop Joseph Mukala of Kohima Diocese was present during the second day of the retreat. He celebrated the Eucharist with them and invited them to embrace a new life in Christ. The participants were grateful to the Lord and to the Jesus Youth team for leading them to a close encounter with Jesus. Rajasthan News On 25 th January, 2004, a Jesus Youth one day programme was held in the Cathedral Church of Udaipur Diocese for the first time. The theme of the programme was, Called to be Living Saints. About 100 youth from 4 parishes participated in the programme. Various dynamics like workshops, sessions, panel sharing and skits were employed to convey the message. This was the first time that youth from various parishes of the diocese came together on a common platform. His Excellency Rt. Rev. Joseph Pathalil, Bishop of Udaipur Diocese was the main Celebrant for Holy Mass. Soon after the Mass, His Excellency inaugurated Sunday Roses and consecrated the statue of the Blessed Virgin in the presence of the parishioners. This one-day programme was a new experience for all present. Mumbai News A three day retreat Quovadis was organised in Mumbai from 26 th to 28 th December. More than 200 youth from various parts of Mumbai participated in this retreat. During the days of the retreat a pro-life exhibition was held. The retreat was led by Fr. George Kumblumootil and an anointed team of preachers. Jesus Youth Mission Retreats eats North East In November last year, JYNT received invitations from various dioceses in North East India to conduct retreats for their youth. A Jesus Youth team, including fulltime volunteers visited Orissa, Assam, Nagaland and Manipur between November 2003 and February About 12 retreats and LSS seminars were held for the youth of the region. Gujarat News The annual retreat for Gujarat Jesus Youth was held from 24 th to 26 th January 2004 and was attended by about 40 participants. Senior Jesus Youth from Kerala led the retreat. About 60 people other than Jesus Youth participated in a night vigil conducted in the Bishop s House on 6 th March, 2004 at the invitation of the Bishop of Ahmedabad, His Excellency Thomas Ignatius Macwan. His encouragement and love is a great motivation for Jesus Youth. Similar night vigils are in the offing. UK During the first quarter of 2004, JYUK organized one-day programmes in the three zones of the United Kingdom (North, Central & South). These gatherings helped in reaching out to the locally based youth. One day programmes were held in Manchester, Birmingham & Oxford with Holy Mass, adoration, confession, spiritual sessions led by priests, group building exercises, etc. In February this year, Mr. Manoj Sunny visited UK on his way to Rome to impart training to the Music Ministry members of JYUK. 7

8 UAE New National team (JYNT) A reconstitution was held for JY UAE and a new team was formed along with a new coordinator. Two new animators were also selected for Jesus Youth UAE. New Service team for each Emirate. A one day programme was held in Jebel Ali where new Service teams were elected for each Emirate. The sessions were moderated by Mr. Manoj Sunny. Thoolika olika Some Jesus Youth housewives got together and formed a literature team to initiate a weekly newsletter - Thoolika - that would cover Jesus Youth activities in Dubai. Nurses Ministry in Dubai Jesus Youth nurses working in dif ferent hospitals and clinics in Dubai gathered together for prayer and sharing. They formed a Nurses Ministry, which includes nurses from JY as well as the Elders group. Fr. Peter from Dubai of ficially inaugurated the Nurses Ministry. Kuwait Jesus Youth in Kuwait staged a Christmas programme in the Cathedral for the Malayalam Charismatic Community in December The programme included a skit on the life of St. Paul. The theme for the skit was The need for saints in the new millennium. A choreographic presentation followed the skit and both were well appreciated. This is the second occasion where Jesus Youth has been invited to minister to the Church community. A Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) was conducted for about 35 youth from different parts of Kuwait. Singapore Mr. Manoj Sunny, was in Singapore from 20 th February to 6 th March Various training and formation programmes were conducted during his visit. Three follow up programmes were conducted for nurses, of fice workers and campus students on the 21st and 22nd of February. Each programme had an average of about 70 participants. Discipleship Training Programmes. DTP programmes for the Campus and Workers Ministry were conducted from 23rd to 26th of February. The Campus DTP was participated by about 15 active campus leaders. About 25 active leaders from the Workers ministry, took part in the three day DTP programme. The Nurses DTP was conducted from 1 st - 3 rd March. The participants of all three DTP s got the conviction that God had called them personally for His purpose. One of the key sessions was on the five essential pillars of Jesus Youth. The participants were encouraged to make a deeper commitment to personal prayer and other constants. Seminar on Music in Worship A workshop on the role of music in Praise and Worship was conducted on the 4th and 5th of March About 60 participants of both the Elders group and Jesus Youth took part in the programme. Manoj Sunny spoke about the important role music plays in worship and how it can be ef fectively used to lead people into the presence of God. Various dynamics and styles were covered. Leaders Training & Re-constitution of National Team For the first time in the history of Jesus Youth Singapore, about 60 small beginings... SRI LANKA Af ter many years of prayer, intercession and waiting, a Jesus Youth prayer group has taken shape in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Every Sunday morning they gather af ter Mass at St. Theresa s Church for an hour of praise and worship, prayer and fellowship. God is gradually adding numbers to the group. GERMANY Jesus Youth is taking its first steps in Germany under the patronage of Rev. Fr. Ignatius Chalissery CMI (Parish Priest of the Indian Community) and Rev. Fr. Ajy Mooleparambil, a former Jesus Youth full time volunteer who is now serving in Germany. Over the last three months, five Jesus Youth gatherings were held in the country. Manoj Sunny and George Ettiyil assisted at some of these meetings. MALAYSIA Jesus Youth activities have started on a small scale in Malaysia, thanks to the initiative and efforts taken by Jesus Youth Singapore. On 7 th March Mr. Manoj Sunny conducted a one day followup programme for a small gathering of about 40 participants. We, the JY Global family, warmly welcome Germany, Malaysia and Sri Lanka into our fellowship. Let us pray that God raises many more prophets from these lands to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Commissioning ceremony of the new JYNT active Jesus Youth leaders attended a two and half days live-in Leaders Training Programme on Discipleship, Leadership and the use of Gif ts and Charisms. A warm welcome was given to all the participants by the Spiritual Director Fr. Thomas Mathew. Various leadership sessions and workshops were conducted by Mr. Manoj Sunny who also moderated the re-constitution of the Jesus Youth Service Team. Hail! Mary, conceived without sin. We entrust into your loving care Jesus Youth the world over. Pray for us, that we may always seek God s will and remain faithful to your Son, Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. Printed and Published by Mr. Manoj Sunny on behalf of Jesus Youth International Office, 6F Thadikaran Centre, Palarivattom P.O., Cochin , Kerala, INDIA, Editor-in-charge ge : Josun Jose. Layout Design : Sanil C.A. Printed by SR Graphics, Kottayam tayam Ph :