music With a mission - Jesus Youth Singapore

INT’L
10 JYFULLTIMERS
INT’L
11 JYLEADERS
13 GLOBAL
NEWSWATCH
a missionary movement at the service of the church
31st EDITION
the
8 Making
Difference
25
YEARS
MUSIC WITH A MISSION
celebrating the privilege of being the king’s musicians
October 17, 2014. At the end of a powerful concert, the fully packed crowd stood up to
cheer the first Indian band to perform at the acclaimed Auditorium Conziliazone in the
Vatican. Young people, musicians, and church dignitaries gathered around - congratulating, chatting
and praying with the band. For the audience it was a powerful experience of God’s presence through
a unique blend of music and sharings - for Rexband who had just completed a set of concerts in
Ireland and Switzerland, it was another humbling experience of God’s miraculous ways in using the
very least to reach out to tens of thousands of young people across 20 countries over the last 25 years.
CONTD. ON PAGE 3
Heart Talk
One verse that often inspires me and keeps me going is what the master tells
his servants upon his return. “Well done, good and faithful servant, now enter
into the joy of your master”
Traditionally, the parable of the talents has been seen as an exhortation to
Jesus’ disciples to use their God-given gifts in the service of God, and to
take risks for the sake of the Kingdom. These gifts have been seen to include
personal abilities and charisms. The simple truth being, that each one is
bestowed with talents, and charisms and the way we respond to these gifts
in the light of His glory, is how we enter the ‘joy of the master’. The positive
rewards are based upon their faithfulness in properly using what Christ had
entrusted them. This probably speaks of positive reward for believers who are
faithful in serving Christ.
The Church which “goes
forth” is a community
of missionary disciples
who take the first step,
who are involved and
supportive, who bear
fruit and rejoice. An
evangelizing community
knows that the Lord has
taken the initiative, he
has loved us first (cf. 1
Jn. 4:19), and therefore we
can move forward, boldly
take the initiative, go out
to others, seek those
who have fallen away,
stand at the crossroads
and welcome the outcast.
Such a community has an
endless desire to show
mercy, the fruit of its own
experience of the power of
the Father’s infinite mercy.
Let us try a little harder
to take the first step and
to become involved.
Pope Francis
When I look back at all the wonderful people who have contributed through
the platform of the Jesus Youth movement for the sake of the kingdom, I truly
see this principle at work. All without compromise consider themselves a gift;
their God given talents, abilities and all they see as worthy in the eyes of the
Lord to be used for the greater good. In many instances I have been witness
to committed youngsters who have given their best for the Kingdom, who use
the little they have and have received blessings unmatched because they were
faithful and willing to risk and to put to use the talents given to them.
The Rexband is one of the many platforms of the Jesus Youth Movement that
turned into a ministering mission with a few youngsters who came together
and believed that their gift of music and singing can be used for ministering to
the young with music that makes sense.
As the Rexband celebrates its jubilee, what comes to my mind are all those
in the Band who faithfully put to ‘use’ the talents they had been given. Most
of them started as individuals giving their best to the Lord and today the
blessings are multifold. Having looked back, we hear His words resound, “Well
done, good and faithful servants” and the attendant blessing to “enter into the
joy” of the Lord.
The message to all youngsters seeking to be available for the Lord in whatever
area of life you think you can be available, as we start the year of Mercy in
the church, is to believe in the talents you are blessed with and use it for the
greater glory to bring many young lives into His love.
As for those few who have chosen to keep away, instead of surrendering their
little, being concerned about what they don’t have, often falling into the pit of
comparison, I urge you to come forth and trust in the Lord of your destinies.
I encourage all youngsters to reflect on Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of
the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp
and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your
good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Evangelii Gaudium # 24
C. C. Joseph
Jesus Youth International Co-ordinator
Cover STORY
Contd. from page 1
25 YEARS - MUSIC WITH A MISSION
25 years ago, a group of timid, inexperienced,
amateur musicians set off on a journey that took
them to places they never expected or imagined.
Yet from the very early years, there were a few
things that drove the group ahead and shaped
the contours of its ministry. As Rexband, the
first global musical outreach of the Jesus Youth
movement, celebrates 25 years, it is perhaps a
time to reflect on the long journey of the band
with Jesus.
Giving Him the very best
The Rexband - which evolved from a group of
young people in the Jesus Youth music ministry
- initially set itself aside through an ardent
desire to give nothing less than the best to
Jesus. Manoj Sunny, the first co-ordinator of the
band was one of the persons who would always
assert the need to give HIM the very BEST, no
matter what. Naturally the name Rexband,
drawn from Christus Rex (the King’s Band)
expressed the idea of giving the best for the
King of Kings.
At a time when Christian music played second
fiddle to secular music, these young people
strived to set aside time and build a practice
ethic, level of musical quality and technical
expertise that was at least on par with
professionals. This was easier said than done in
the little state of Kerala in India in the early and
mid nineties. And that too during a period when
most of the band members were struggling to
find a livelihood and build a career to support
their families.
At a time when the very concept of
contemporary christian music was just evolving,
these young musicians had very few avenues to
present their music or grow as musicians. But
as they slowly moved from random musicians
to ‘musicianaries’ or music missionaries, the
Lord surprised them over and over with
His miracles. The band came into contact
with popular and talented musicians
like the Celebrant Singers (One of the
most prolific and professional Christian
Ministries led by Jon Stemkoski) during
one of their India tours. As the band
interacted with them, the musical
prowess and the spiritual focus of the
group would inspire each member of the
band. The popular rock band 13 AD too
became close to the band and played
a role in inspiring and shaping the key
musicians and their styles. Initially
the band travelled within Kerala for
small programmes. With time, these
programmes began to evolve into a
unique concert format involving sharings,
dramatic presentations and in the course
of time, choreography.
Giving Him the very best, the band
gradually discovered, also meant setting
aside the best time in their lives for Him.
For all of the band members, this involved
a realignment of their lives and careers mostly very difficult decisions involving
careers and families. Out of the larger
gathering of musicians, a smaller group
was encouraged to take more concrete
commitments about setting aside time to
minister as Rexband.
Over the years this has come to have
several dimensions. Besides setting aside
the best time every year to travel with the
band, it also means the constant search
for new spiritual themes, musical styles
and technical spaces.
Paying the Price
For everyone in the band, the journey
has been as challenging as it has been
beautiful. The price that many in the
band had to pay included careers, time
with the family and the struggle of long
journeys in unfamiliar countries away
from home.
At the very beginning, the members had
taken a call that Rexband would be an
outreach offered freely. This meant that
the members had to find their livelihood
elsewhere. Some of them continued to
build their career in music, but as time
went on, most of the band members
found careers that were not connected
to music - careers ranging from teaching,
software development, marketing,
31st EDITION PAGE 3
The simple notice announcing the first Rexband concert in 1990
One of the early Rexband Concerts in Kochi
medicine, films, healthcare and airlines to
advertising. This often meant living in two
worlds - adjusting to the pressures of work and
setting aside time for the mission of the band.
Journeying with
the movement
More often than not, these would come head
to head and invariably, as the Rexband mission
grew, the pressures grew even more. Every
Rexband member has a personal story of the
price they have had to pay - in terms of lost jobs,
surrendered vacations, time with the family and
financial struggles.
Most of the band members have had a
personal encounter of Jesus through the
Jesus Youth movement and the band has
always seen itself as reflecting its charisms
- which is why it calls itself ‘a musical
outreach of the Jesus Youth Movement.’
And yet, if asked again, all the band members
do have a story of how the price they had to
pay was nothing compared to the joy of sharing
Jesus through music. Interestingly, once they
were ready to pay the price, the Lord blessed
them with successful careers too.
The focus to reach out to the youth who
dwell in the outer realms of the Church
and spirituality, the use of contemporary
musical styles, the desire to be at the heart
of the church - all these aspects of the
Rexband have been drawn from the Jesus
Youth movement.
Today, the circumstances of the band members
have changed - yet each time the band goes on
mission, the band knows that they have a price
to pay to make it happen.
As the band began to move out in mission,
the Jesus Youth movement was also
A Jubilee Letter
As the jubilee year dawned,
all of us in the Rexband were
sharing with each other the
wonderful things that the Lord
had done in our ministry and
our lives. It was at that time
that Manoj Sunny, the first
co-ordinator and a visionary
of the band wrote a beautiful
letter to all of us - which I feel
encapsulates the beauty and the
grace of the Rexband journey
more than anything. Here are
some excerpts from the letter.
- Shelton Pinheiro
“18th March 1990 - the St Teresa’s College
auditorium in Cochin was packed with students
and a number of people from outside who came as
special invitees. It was an experiment. The positive
feedback we received from the music ministry of
the National Charismatic Convention held in Cochin
in 1989, the inspiration from the Celebrant Singers
(an American Band that toured in India at the time),
a strong desire to go beyond the possibilities of
a ‘supporting ministry’ and the desire to use the
power of music as a primary tool to reach out to
youth, all these gave birth to this first Rexband
concert. No one even dreamt it was the beginning
of such a long journey. As we look back across 25
years, we see it was a time of great blessings! With
more than 800 concerts spread over 21 countries,
Way back in 1987, when the Jesus
Youth music ministry had begun to be
active in campuses, I remember Antony
(one of the first members and the
current orchestra co-ordinator of
the band) sharing with me the need
for a catholic band on par with
professionals. He felt such a group
would inspire the younger generation
and would help several musicians find
meaning in their music. At that time
this seemed such a faraway dream. Yet
when the need for a Music group to
be set up for the National charismatic
convention came up, a seemingly
random group that came together
under the leadership of Manoj
Sunny and Fr.Urulianickal was much
appreciated by participants from all
over India. This led to the recording of
an album, and eventually the birth of
a performing group that would open
up a new, vibrant way of using the
power of music to reach out to many and to inspire a new set of musicians
committed to the Lord.
DR. EdWARD EDEZHATH
Jesus youth animator and one of the
first rexband members
numerous training programmes, 12
albums and 5 World Youth Days,
Rexband is considered to be one of the
primary Catholic contemporary bands
in the world. Besides, God used this
band as the face of the Jesus Youth
movement especially when it was
spreading internationally.
As a band that started in Kerala in the
early 90s, we had a lot of limitations.
We began with nothing but a strong
desire and passion to share Jesus, who
we had experienced in a personal way
through our music. It took months
to own an acoustic guitar and years
to buy a small sound system for
our practice sessions. But the band
believed in two things from the very
beginning - to give witness to Him in
beginning to spread its charisms
around the world. And quite often,
Rexband became the first experience
for many young people in the frontline
of the movement - leading them to an
experience of Jesus, and often to the
heart of the Jesus Youth movement.
band - a prolife presentation titled ‘The
Silent Scream’ was born out of the call of
St. John Paul II to stand for a culture of life
amidst the culture of death.
WYD 2002, Canada
WYD 2005, Germany
As Jesus Youth began reaching out and
building communities in places like
Australia, Ireland, Vienna, Switzerland
or the North East in India, Rexband
tours have been a way of presenting
the joy and vitality of the movement to
new groups of young people entering
the movement.
WYD 2008, Australia
At the heart of
the chuRch
So it was a time of great joy for the band
and the movement when Rexband was
invited to perform at the World Youth Day
celebrations in Toronto, Canada, way back
in 2002. Wide-eyed and excited, the band
arrived in Toronto after their first tour
of the USA and savoured the experience
of being one of the few Asian bands to
perform on the main stage at the World
Youth Day. The encounter with the vibrant,
youthful church and the range of Christian
musicians from around the world would
leave an indelible impression on the minds
of the Rexband members.
Later, the band would go on to perform at
several venues including some of the main
stages at all the World Youth Days that
followed - 2005 in Cologne, 2008 in Sydney,
2011 in Madrid and 2013 in Rio de Janeiro.
From the very beginning, the band has
been very sensitive and responsive to
the pulse of the Church. One of the
most popular presentations of the
WYD 2011, Spain
My journey with the Rexband
began in 1989. Looking back
now I see what god has done
for the band and through the
band. I am extremely grateful
for this ministry. I didn’t choose
this, God Chose me. and my
superiors supported me. today
I feel my time with the rexband
is a celebration of my religious
life. our trip has been exciting
at times and tiring at times - but
through it all we sang, prayed
and grew together.
WYD 2013, Brazil
FR. ANTONY URULIYANIKKAL CMI,
Spiritual director, Rexband
‘the best way’ possible - by giving Him
the best of what we have received from
Him - our talents, time, money, health
– everything.
Every Rexband tour was a deep journey
of faith for all the band members.
We always had to face difficulties
and challenges which would make it
almost impossible for us to do such
a tour - sicknesses, denial of leave
forcing members to resign jobs, visa
problems and more... We would always
say this: “Our music – what people
hear from the stage – is the sum of
our brokenness, fears, struggles and
the inner cry acknowledging that it is
only in Him that we have our life; this
comes out as music, touching hearts…
changing lives… bringing healing…”
It was in 1989-90 that I had my first
personal experience of jesus. it was
In the same period that we began
to come together as rexband. so my
journey with jesus and my journey
in music have somehow happened
together. my spiritual foundations
and my musical foundations were
laid simultaneously. Today as a jesus
youth and a music director i see that
this journey has been something
very special for my ministry, my
family, my community and my music.
Thank you Jesus!
ALPHONs joseph, guitarist,
composer and Vocalist, rexband
Let me narrate one such incident where
God worked his miracle. We did our first
International tour in connection with the
Toronto WYD. We were supposed to do 9
concerts before the World Youth Day - 3
in UAE, 5 in the US and one in Toronto. We
also wanted to take a break in Taize’ on
our way back. There were some technical
difficulties with processing the documents
for our visa and we got the docs here just
two days before the concert in Sharjah. We
ended up in a situation where we had to get
our Schengen and US visa in just two days.
We all knew it was impossible – but we also
knew that our God makes all things possible!
Around 17 of us went to Pondicherry to
appear at the French Consulate; we managed
to get the visa stamped on our passports
on the same day and left for Chennai that
very night, appeared for the US visa at the
consulate – and all of us got our passports
stamped with visas in a few hours’ time.
The next evening we were performing in
UAE! Thus each trip was a true miracle,
where we learned
to make possible
the impossible,
knowing that this
is His work and
the only thing we
have to do is to
say a blind ‘yes’
to Him.
Manoj Sunny,
The first Coordinator of Rexband
31st EDITION
SEPTEMBER
2009 PAGE 5
Each time encountering the great popes
of this century - the youthful energy of St.
John Paul II, the edifying teachings of Pope
Benedict XVI and recently the simple and
vibrant Pope Francis. These encounters
have gone on to influence the band in its
spirituality, performances, its compositions
and its growing love for the Church.
Staying relevant
Staying New
Somehow from the beginning, God
brought together a happy mix of diverse
musicians and personalities trained in
different genres - rock, pop, carnatic,
hindustani and western classical music to Rexband. As the band developed from
playing covers into its own compositions,
these influences began to work together,
and way back in the early nineties, even
before the fusion wave would start in
India, Rexband had worked on its first
fusion track bringing together carnatic
I was preparing for a Pro-life
presentation in canada. Before
the presentation, I was not feeling
comfortable about going on stage.
“Lord, I prayed, please forgive me
for the way I feel, but it is my great
desire that you touch at least one
soul during this presentation”. The
very next day we had a programme
in a park and a 45 year old canadian
woman came up to me. She told me
she was present at the concert the
earlier day and had been deeply
moved by the presentation. She had
been a catholic but had left the
Church. At some point in her life,
she said, she was involved with a
man, had got pregnant and had
aborted the child. But during the
presentation, she felt the Holy
Spirit convicting her of her sin.
Immediately, she found a priest and
confessed. “After 20 years”, she said,
“I’ve come back to the Church”.
Beena Manoj, Lead Vocalist, Rexband
and western pop styles. Gradually, as the
band travelled and such music began to gain
acceptance globally, it began to evolve as a
signature style of the band across its albums.
On the stage, the band was inspired by
the theatre initiatives in the Jesus Youth
movement to introduce elements of theatre
and choreography early in the mid nineties.
Today, most of the contemporay secular
My Europe tour with the Rex band
came as a huge blessing. All thanks
to God for this beautiful experience
of being a witness to such a big
audience. I was extremely touched by
the humility of every member of the
band. The personal sharing time with
some of the members really helped me
understand my call as a musician. In
all these years that I’ve known them
personally, what touched me the most
was that their lives off-stage were no
different from their lives on-stage.
Timson Thomas, Lead Vocalist,
Acts of the Apostles.
and break new grounds. In this jubilee year,
the band waits for the new ground that the
Lord is opening up.
bands are working with theatre and
dancers.
Reaching out to
musicians with Jesus
As the band travelled and met different
musicians, the Lord let the members to
be influenced by various flavours and
styles ranging from hip hop to reggae
and most recently even swing and jazz.
Just as the Holy Spirit inspires the Jesus
Youth movement to stay relevant and
contemporay, the Spirit has consistently
inspired Rexband to explore new spaces
From the very beginning, the band had a
heart for other musicians and bands - and a
desire to share the joy of Jesus with them. In
the late nineties the Rexband was involved
in a unique series of weekend programmes
called ‘Music Retreats’ which became a
platform to bring together musicians and
help them encounter the love of Jesus in a
musical atmosphere and ambience.
I remember the time when ‘Fortress’,
one of my favourite Rexband songs
was recorded in a studio in kochi. I
was so thrilled to be with the band.
thus my journey with the Rexband
began. Literally, rexband became
more than just a band or a group,
it became like a family for me. It
became a place where we shared
and prayed for each other. Other
than prayer and music, Rexband is
where I have experienced the most
fun and the joy of togetherness.
Stephen Devassy, Lead Pianist and
Composer, rexband
Later as the band began to work on albums,
the Rexband began to work with a whole
set of professional technicians, musicians
and bands. Going beyond music, many of
them drew close to the band and some of
finest secular musicians in the country have
worked without remuneration on Rexband
albums; continuing a relationship that
rooted in God.
For the Rexband, this is an outreach that
is very exciting. During all of the Rexband
tours, the band takes time to meet young,
local musicians in each place - organizing
musical workshops and interactive
When I was working in the Middle
East and a long Rexband mission
approached, as usual, I had to face
a difficult job situation - my wife
was six months pregnant and we
needed to hold on to the job. If I
travelled, I was sure to lose my visa.
But we prayed and I went ahead.
As I returned after the tour, I was
expecting a 6 month airport ban. But
the news I heard was amazing - the
country had changed the visa rules!
The next day, a man wHo did not
know me offered me a visa to stay on
and work. The next day, my earlier
boss called me up to offer the same
job I had lost, but with more perks.
So at the end of it all, the price we
pay is so little in comparison with
His goodness and grace.
Hector Lewis, Lead Vocalist and
Bassist, Rexband
gatherings - often inspiring many
musicians to set aside time for the Lord.
Journeying with the
next generation
As the Jubilee of the band goes by, it is a
joy to see that the journey of the Rexband
has almost come full circle. Today, more
new musical groups and bands in the
Jesus Youth movement are daring to make
a lifetime journey.
In the last ten years, Rexband has been
setting aside time for journeying closely
with a set of new music groups in the
movement - helping them identify their
unique spiritual charisms and musical
strengths. The band has also made it a
practice to include some of the younger
musicians or singers from the emerging
bands as they go on their international
tours - helping them gain the performing
experience and spiritual insights needed
to be music missionaries, for life.
SHELTON PINHEIRO
A Jesus Youth, he has been the Rexband
co-ordinator and songwriter for several years.
He lives with his family in Kochi, Kerala.
31st EDITION PAGE 7
The first Jesus Youth Fulltimers
training took place in Uganda
with a four day retreat. The initial
retreat session was led by Mr. Subin
Jacob on paradigm shift to help
the participants to overcome their
paradigms. And the rest of the
sessions on Gods’ love were led by
Mr. Toms Michael which was followed
by a time of adoration. Everyone was
able to experience the presence of
Holy Spirit during the adoration.
Over the week, different sessions
were handled on different topics
relevant for the contemporary world.
The topics included missionary
lifestyle, self-awareness, word of
Making the
Difference
The First Jesus Youth
Animators’ Training and
Fultimers Training on
the African continent
was conducted in
Kampala, Uganda at
the St. Mary’s National
Major Seminary, gaba,
from 14th to 23rd
August 2015.
“This is the Lord’s doing and it is
marvellous in our eyes. The Lord is
good and he has given us light. O give
thanks to the Lord for he is good, his
steadfast love endures forever.”
Psalm 118: 23, 27, 29
Jesus Youth made its first outreach
to Uganda in the year 2010, met key
leaders of the Church in Uganda,
developed relations and slowly began
working with universities and youth
in the church at the grassroot levels.
Over the last few years, the milestones
Jesus Youth achieved in Uganda are
many. It includes placing fulltimers,
Leaders’ Trainings, breakfast meeting
with the Vice President, ministers
and Chief Justice, sessions for
seminarians, reaching out to more
than 7 universities and so on. Thus
from 2010 we have been able to boost
and enable missionary activities and
we are also witnessing a huge impact
upon members all over the country.
This year marked the beginning of trainings in Uganda.
Upon the request of a few Bishops in Uganda, the 3 key
training programmes organized in Uganda for the first
time in history along with the trainings in Thailand.
Thus the Fulltimers’ Training took place from 3rd to
23rd August 2015, Exposure Training from 3rd to 12th
August 2015 and Animators’ Training from 14th to 23rd
August 2015. Forty seven participants including youth,
priests, religious and families took part in the trainings
at GABA seminary, Kampala, Uganda.
God, praise and worship, discipleship,
spiritual warfare, JY spirituality,
6 pillars of JY prayer meetings,
evangelization, kerygma, catechesis,
the past and present Church, the
essence of Jesus Youth Ministry,
integrity, making disciples, sexuality
and so on. All the sessions were really
fruitful and were handled by the
most competent missionaries – Subin
Jacob, Toms Michael, Santhosh Mathew,
Jomy Abraham, Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Manoj
Sunny, C.C. Joseph and Rajesh Moses.
From the sessions, the participants got an
understanding of the need for inner healing
and the same was achieved through the inner
healing adoration.
Many of the participants from the Exposure
Training shared that they had attended a
programme of this kind for the first time.
Each participant understood their unique
role instead of being a mere spectator of
the programme. As the days progressed
the individuals grew by searching for
paradigms at the root of their very
existence which were ultimately hindering
them from giving God their very best.
The decisions made to have a paradigm
shift were challenging but each one was
able to set up an action plan that was
specific, measurable and could be started
immediately.
The discussions of the Animators Training
focussed on the issues of the youth and
church especially in the context of the
church in Uganda. They took commitments
to work together with the participants of
the other trainings, to build the church
of Christ. The presence of His Excellency
Emeritus Edward Bagaragate Akiki, His
Excellency Robert Muhiirwa (Bishop of Fort
Portal), His Excellency Wanok Sanctus Lino
(Bishop of Nebbi), His Excellency John the
Bapitist Kagwaa (Bishop of Masakaa), His
Excellency Paul Ssemogerere (Bishop of
Luwerro and Chairman of Lay Apostolate)
along with many priests who supported the
trainings with their presence and prayers
made a great impact.
“If there was anyone who
benefitted most from this
training then it should truly
BE Me. I extend my heartfelt
thanks to God for choosing
me and I pray he helps me
execute the resolutions I
have made in my life. I want
to thank all the facilitators
of the different sessions, for
enlightening my whole self,
body, mind and soul, Keeping
up the Spirit of missionary
work and for the moving
teachings that you were able
to pass onto us throughout
this time of training. I
suggest an additional
day for the sacrament of
confession.”
Nyakaana Festo
“I am very grateful to God
and the organizers of this
training. I was a religious
person before and when
I came here I realized
that there are things I
don’t know. The resource
persons were prepared,
organized and their topics
were intentional and mind
captivating. I have learnt a
lot and I think at this moment
I have people whom I can look
up to. Thank you very much
for the knowledge I have
gained from this training.”
Murakatete Specioza
“I appreciate the
international team and
facilitators for such an
encouraging initiative for
the youth especially in this
era where most youth are
desperate and don’t know
what to do. May the good
Lord enlighten your visions
for the world so that we may
grow together in faith.”
Ndibalema Derek
In all the trainings, the participants were asked
to take up different case studies. Also, they
were sent to the nearby beach where they met
different people and shared the love of God with
them. Doubts on different topics were clarified by
the expert team of facilitators. Thus, the training
period was really fruitful and it helped the
participants to be firm in their missionary call.
The participants were led by a team of resource
persons who came from across the world to sow
the seeds of a Christ-centered life for the people
in Africa. Santosh Mathew from UAE, (Member,
JY International Mission Team and Coordinator
of JY Mission in Africa) was the main coordinator
for the trainings. He was tireless in his work, with
great vision and commitment. Rajesh Moses and
family, are missionaries staying in Africa without
whom none of these initiatives would have been
possible. Their commitment and passion for
mission is really commendable. Gratitude is also
due to Fr. Thomas Tharayil (Priest Animator, JY
International Council), Toms Michael (Member,
JY International Formation Team), Manoj Sunny
(Director, JY Formation), C.C. Joseph (Coordinator,
JY International Council), Jomy Abraham
(Member, JY International Formation Team, who
coordinated the Animators’ Training) and the fulltime volunteers Sajil Jimmy (who coordinated the
Exposure Training), Arun David, Jerrymon Albert
and Robert Kato.
Let us all pray that the impact of these events
may be a landmark in the life of the future
missionaries also. “Let Your will be done, let Your
Kingdom come in Africa!”
31st EDITION PAGE 9
Jesus Youth International
Full Time
Volunteers’
“Therefore if anyone is in Christ he is a
new creation, the old has gone and the
new has come.” [2 Cor 5:17]
TRAINING 2015
experienced a strong and deep
relationship with Christ and one
another. The youth were helped to
get out of their comfort zones and
get into their courage zones. Thus the
training was for a year of formation
and a lifetime of commitment. Their
experience was extremely fruitful
and the batch understood the greater
value of sharing Jesus with everyone
they meet.
Jesus Youth Fulltime Volunteers’ Training is a
platform to be a new creation in Christ. This
transformation begins with a one month training
programme leading to a one year commitment
for mission work. This year the International
training was held from 4th to 31st July in
Camillian Pastoral Centre, Bangkok, Thailand.
There were 13 participants from various countries
who were coordinated by 5 training team
members – Subin Jacob (Co-ordinator), Fr.
Cherian Nereveettil (Animator), Baby Chacko,
Sr. Thresiamma Philip FMM and Sumol Pious.
The three-day retreat was followed by modules
on Self Awareness including dramatics which
helped the particpants to identify their hidden
talents. The training covered sessions on
Personal Prayer, Sacrament of Reconciliation,
Values, Integrity, Sexuality, History of the
Catholic Church and the Jesus Youth Movement,
Mother Mary, Christian Leadership, How to
lead Praise and Worship, Adoration and Prayer
meeting. Like every fine training, this too was a
mix of theory and practice, and in order to put
into practice what was learned, the participants
were divided into groups having a responsibility
for each week. Apart from these they also formed
cell groups, which in turn helped the individuals to
share and learn from each one another.
Living, sharing and learning together led the
participants to a new platform where they
“ It provided a wonderful exposure and
understanding of how a true disciple and family
must be. Some of the key things I learnt are: to
formaly introduce and thank others in front of
a group, to love others with all my heart, AND
to be commitTed. The contents of the training
were well designed to cater to a wide area of
study in the life formation of youth. It prepared
me to embark on my commitment with vigour
and hope. It also brought me closer to God and
sacramental life and improved my prayer life.
It helped me to learn ABOUT other cultures.”
Robert Kato, Uganda
“The training helped
me surrender all my
sinfullness and TO
experience God’s love
intimately. Cell group
sharings enabled me to
discover my weaknesses
and improve my ways.
Dramatics helped me
open up and overcome
stage fear and become
more focused. “
Hema, INDIA
The participants were introduced
to evangelization and were also
encouraged to share their Christ
experience with strangers. The daily
Holy Mass and Adoration revived
their spirits and helped them in
their spiritual growth. After the
training period, the participants were
commissioned by His Excellency Silvio
Siripong Charatsri, Bishop of Thailand
to go and bear witness for Christ in
their mission places.
“This report will not be enough to contain
the joy, love, mercy and graces of each of the
13 participants. There were moments of self
questioning, of why I am here, my true intention
of going for the commitment, and so on. For all
these questions this one year will bless each
and everyone of us with wonderful answers
and life changing moments and decisions, a
wonderful time to allow God to fully chisel us
into HIS masterpiece. This training was just a
beginning of a new journey in Christ as we are
new creations in HIM, ‘the old has gone and the
new has come’” Abraham Kuruvilla Jose, UAE
Twenty-three Jesus Youth leaders from
different parts of the world gathered together
at the Camillian Pastoral Care Centre,
Latkrabang, Bangkok, Thailand for the 8th
International Leadership Training organised
from 6th to 18th July 2015. It was, for all the
participants, an unforgettable experience of
living together, sharing and learning.
It was also an ‘inward journey’ for the
participants into their lives, searching the
self and stirring up their hearts and minds
to move forward with a clear direction
that comes from the Lord. They were
from different cultures, life situations
and experiences – some excited, some
apprehensive, and some still searching,
but all together went on this journey to
understand their call as leaders of the
movement.
Jesus Youth International
Leaders’
Training 2015
The leaders were privileged to have the
best of resource persons like Fr. Bitaju,
Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Fr. Fio Mascarenhas,
Manoj Sunny, C. C. Joseph, Chackochan
Njavallil, Dr. Edward Edezhath, Subin
Jacob, Baby Chacko, Raiju Varghese
and Siljo Thomas (Co-ordinator). They
accompanied the participants throughout
the training. The joy and love shared
with the resource team and amongst the
leaders proved enriching as all got to know
and learn from each other.
The one to one interaction with leaders,
the reflections, the input sessions,
discussions and group dynamics gave the
participants an opportunity to evaluate
themselves and their understanding of the
movement and the church. The training
opened up various avenues of the self and
of the movement, and how all of us together
with our weaknesses and strengths can
strive to give glory to the Living God.
As in the song, ‘Shine Jesus shine…Let
there be light’, it was truly a journey to come
into the light and now to spread this light to
others.
“JYILT 2015 was an exciting experience for
me to gather, share and to engage with a
group of Jesus Youth leaders from diverse
background but inspired with a common
vision. Moreover, it was an opportunity to
learn from many of the great leaders and
elders in the movement. JYILT imparted to
me a fresh outlook on the ministry and a
renewed enthusiasm”.
Sherin Thomas, Ireland
The next Jesus Youth
International Leaders’
Training
The ninth batch of Jesus Youth
International Leaders’ Training will be
from 15th July to 28th August, 2016. For
more details, please contact the Jesus
Youth National Co-ordinator of your
country or region.
Jubilee Inauguration (Regional)
Pentecost Sunday 2016 (15 May, 2016)
Intercession Day (Regional)
10 JULY 2016, Sunday
Jubilee Thanksgiving Holy Mass
(Regional) - August, September 2016
Jubilee Conference (Kochi)
28 to 31 December 2016
Jubilee Finale - May 14, 2017
31st EDITION PAGE 11
Jesus Youth International
Animators’
Training 2015
“It was a joy for the team to
work with the group. The group
was small but powerful with
lots of talent, enthusiasm and
cooperation. It was a rewarding
experience being with such a
committed, enthusiastic and
spiritually enriched group of
animators. They were full of the
passion for the kingdom of our
Lord. I cherish the experience,
but most of all, the deep sense of
mission that seemed to motivate
all of us. I pray that all the
participants continue to be role
models, mentors and animators to
the many around them, especially
today’s youth”
Berly EArnest, Co-ordinator,
JYIAT 2015
“The Animators’ training was
a rejuvenating experience for
me. It was really Spirit-filled,
enlightening; cleansing and
inspiring. I received a lot of new
ideas, knowledge and a fresh
anointing of the Holy Spirit”
Sr. Linda, USA
The intensive and dynamic
programme for committed animators,
Jesus Youth International Animators’
Training 2015 was held from 20th to
31st July 2015 at the Camillian Pastoral
Care Centre, Latkrabang, Bangkok,
Thailand. The 18 participants
including 9 priests, 2 religious and
7 lay animators represented 10
countries – Australia, U.S.A., Canada,
Singapore, Kenya, Uganda, UAE,
Oman and India.
The programme provided profound
training for adults with a focus on
youth animation and ministering
to families. The participants got an
opportunity to learn from and to
listen to the leaders of the movement.
Sharings from various animators
and their challenges in each region
was helpful for all to get a global
perspective of JY and the relevance of
the movement in each place.
Following the initial days of
fellowship, the participants were
led into a 3 day retreat based on
Bible reflections by Fr. Abraham
Pallivathukal. This was followed by
intensive training sessions on the
Jesus Youth Movement, Charisms,
and JY statutes which were dealt
with by Dr. Edward Edezhath. Manoj
Sunny’s session on Integrity was
well appreciated by the animators.
The sessions on Communication and
workshops on dealing with the youth discussed
by C. C. Joseph were also cherished by all. Subin
Jacob spoke on Jesus Youth Mission activities.
The presence of Adolf Goldwyn during the initial
days made the Praise and Worship sessions
very lively. Thus the senior leaders helped the
participants to recognise their call as animators.
The programme was formulated in such a way
that the participants could understand their
role in guiding today’s youth. Special emphasis
was laid on accompanying the youth, mentally
and spiritually. The programme was formulated
keeping in mind the need for each participant
to have sufficient time for reflection, selfdiscovery and fellowship building.
His Excellency, Silvio Siripong Charatsri, Bishop
of Thailand was present during the concluding
day to anoint the animators. Fr. Abraham
Pallivathukal accompanied the participants
throughout the training and was a great source
of blessing and inspiration.
“most important OF ALL was the
love of God I experienced through
others. People reached out in the
most loving way. At one point, I
also felt very challenged and
thought of leaving. But it was
all an eye opener for me. The
dedication shown by the team and
the fellowship and camaraderie
shared by the attendees from
different parts of the world
made me aware of the joy of
doing God’s work”
Seline, Kenya
“It was a time of self discovery.
Living with participants from
different nations and age groups
gave us a taste of early christian
community living. We were
made aware of the urgency of
evangelization, particularly of
youth”
Fr. Prakash, Australia
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
‘3:16’, New Zealand
New Zealand
 ’3:16’
A four day faith formation camp was
organised for 25 teenagers from different
parts of New Zealand in the month of
April (14-17) at Narrows Park in Hamilton.
The camp was led by Fr.Tony Alex, ICPE.
This camp is to be followed up by a DTP
programme in the month of October.
 ’U-Turn’
A JY Christchurch initiative aimed at the
18-35 age group who have not attended any
JY faith formation programmes, ‘U-Turn’
was held at Waipara Adventure Camp,
Amberley, Christchurch from 17-19 July. Fr.
Bony Abraham from the congregation of
Missionaries of God’s Love and Fr. Antoine
Thomas from the congregation of the
Community of St. John were the resource
persons for this camp.
Vipin Varghese
Sri Lanka
 JY Recommitment Day 2015
After a few weeks of proper preparation
and novenas, ‘Recommitment Day 2015’
was celebrated on the theme-Spirit Reigns.
Fr. Daya Dharshana, Spiritual Director,
JY Sri Lanka, led the main session of the
ceremony followed by an Eucharistic
Adoration.
Annual Youth Retreat, Sri Lanka
Summer Camp, Germany
 JY Annual Youth Retreat 2015
About 30 youth attended the retreat at the
John Paul II Retreat Centre, Maeliya, under
the support and guidance of Fr. Gihan
Gunathilake, Fr. Daya Dharshana and Sr.
Annestashiya. The resources were Fr. Wajira
(TOR), Mr. Adolphus, Mr. Mahinda Namal
and Mr. Dhanushka Fernando.
 JY Annual Teens Retreat 2015
Around 100 teens gathered at the Divine
Mercy Retreat Centre, Kudagama for a
retreat. Fr. Jeewantha Peiris, Fr. Gihan
Gunathilake, Fr. Daya Dharshana and Mr.
Annestly Fernando were the resource
persons for the retreat.
Shanuka Perera
GERMANY
 Summer camp
About 75 teens, youth and families, from
Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Austria and UK
camped in the Black Forest, Germany from
31 July till 7 August to spend their summer
vacation together. The week was filled with
camping activities, outings and games along
with faith related workshops and inputs.
Rojo James
Australia
 National Formation Training
JY Australia kicked off the formation
‘Trendsetters’, Australia
modules with a National Formation Training
programme held from 3 - 6 October,
attended by 70 participants and moderated
by Toms Michael and Manoj Sunny. The
training was helpful to understand the
need and systematic progression of
personal growth for every individual. It also
highlighted the need to keep its simplicity
and dynamism to convey the message
across to all participants to make them
commit their lives to Christ. The general
training was followed by the Philip Course
which was a unique spiritual experience.
 Youth and Teens Retreats
Various Youth and Teens retreats were
conducted during the months of April and
July at Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.
Nearly 50 participants attended each of
these retreats.
 Hours of Grace
Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration was
organized (24/7) for 100 days across 30
parishes in Australia which began from Ash
Wednesday and went right up to Pentecost.
Many came forward and witnessed and
experienced grace during the adoration of
the Blessed Sacrament.
 Jesus Youth Australia National Office
In the 10th year of JY in Australia, a national
office has been set up with Binu Joseph
as the Administrative Officer. The office
which is to support the initiatives and to
Awakening Outreach, UK
31st EDITION PAGE 13
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
‘Spark’ Retreat, UK
undertake all the administrative and day
to day duties of mission, was blessed by
Fr. Prakash Cutinha on 1 August 2015. The
working hours are from 9:00 – 17:00 hrs, Mon
to Wed.
 Mission Trip to Nauru Island
A small JY team (Sibi Joseph, Jobin and
Kandida Franklin) spent one week in Nauru,
an island country in Micronesia in July to
provide a retreat for a group of 40 youngsters.
 New Regional Councils
This year saw the completion of three
Regional Council terms – Canberra ,
Adelaide and Brisbane. New council
members were elected in all these regions
to form the new Regional Councils.
Anoob Joseph
UK
 ‘Awakening’ 2015
The 100 days of Eucharistic Adoration is
an initiative which is currently in its sixth
year. ‘Awakening’ this year started on Ash
Wednesday and concluded with Eucharistic
Celebration on the eve of Pentecost which
covered around 40 parishes across UK. As part
of this initiative, three youth and two families
reached out to France and organized a 48hour Adoration with the community there.
 Commitment Day
Around 100 active JYs took part in the
commitment on 23 May, which was
Growth Retreat, UK
Haiti Mission, USA
celebrated at St Mary’s the Mount Church in
Walsall, Birmingham. The day commenced
with the closing of ‘Awakening’ and with a
time of fellowship.
 JY National Conference
Around 500 people gathered for ALIVE
2015, a national conference which took
place from 27 – 31 of August at Myerscough
College in Preston. The conference was
based on the theme Romans 12:2 – with
a special focus on “Being transformed in
Christ”. Some of the key speakers of the
conference were Mark Nimo, C. C. Jospeh,
John Pridmore, David Payne and Fr. Binu
Palakapally.
 Growth Retreat
Every year Jesus Youth UK will be facilitating
two growth retreats during the weekend
before Psalm Sunday and also on the 1st
weekend of Advent. The first growth retreat
of this year took place in JYUK Centre for
prayer and mission, in Sheffield from 20
- 22 March. Seventeen participants had a
wonderful weekend with prayer, adoration,
silence, sharing, prayer ministry and with a
focused reflection on the beatitudes.
 ‘Spark’ Retreat
Two youth retreats took place in the week
following Easter. In Manchester, the retreat
was from 6 - 8 April for 40 youngsters
in the region. And the Portsmouth held
Formation Retreat, USA
retreat from 9 - 12 April was attended by
21 youngsters. ‘Spark’ series of retreats in
both these areas was a success due to the
relentless efforts put in by the local Jesus
Youth families in the region.
Joby Thomas
U.S.A.
 World Meeting of Families & Papal Visit
Jesus Youth from all over the country came
together from 22 - 27 Sept, to take part in
the World Meeting of Families and the Holy
Father’s visit to Philadelphia. There were 120
adults & children for the WMOF Congress and
an additional 100 participants for the papal
weekend. It was a time of rejuvenation for
the families and youth to come together with
the larger Catholic Church, and to discover
more about the mission of families. One of
the JY babies, Eva, got a direct blessing from
the Holy Father.
 Summer Formation Mission
From 21 June to 7 August, a group of youth
from all over the country embarked on a 2
month mission journey. They began their
journey with a retreat. The next several
weeks were spent with the Haiti mission and
they ended their journey by travelling across
the country to share their experiences with
various families and peers.
Discipleship Training Programme, Canada
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
Western Gathering, Canada
 Ongoing Haiti Healing Missions
Nurses, doctors and other Jesus Youth
have been coming together regularly for
Healing Ministry Missions in Haiti. During
the mission, each person consulted in the
clinic receives both medical and spiritual
attention. There have been missions in
March, May and August 2015.
 Constitution of the first 4Life
Ministry National Team
This June the 4Life ministry, a prolife
initiative of Jesus Youth of America
constituted its first National team with
Jesus Youth and appointed members from
both the Syro Malabar Diocese and the Syro
Malankara Exarchate.
 JYA Exchange Programme
On their spring breaks, several college
students from across the country spent a
week with a JY family in another region.
This was a beautiful opportunity for the
youth to experience the beauty of a
missionary family in it’s everyday life.
 Tampa Formation Retreats
Every month, a group of families or youth
have been coming together at the JYA
formation house in Tampa, Florida. Led
through a time of retreat, prayer and
personal discovery by Sunil Nadarajan
and others, JY have the opportunity of
National Adoration Day, Kuwait
Leaders’ Gathering, Canada
growing deeper in their faith and life in the
spirituality of movement.
Jilu & Nicole
Toronto. George Devassy along with local
resource took the sessions.
Canada
Kuwait
 Leaders’ Gathering
The first leaders’ gathering for Canada was
held from 30 April to 3 May, 2015 at Regina
Munid Retreat House, Ontario. Leaders from
six different provinces gathered for this
retreat, which was led by Fr. Roy Palatty and
Dr. John D.
 Western Gathering
A Western Gathering was held on 1 - 2
August in Calgary, Alberta. Around 55 Jesus
Youth gathered from 3 different provinces
at St. Luke’s Church to celebrate the joy
and fellowship of Jesus Youth in Western
Canada.
 DTP at Calgary, Alberta
A Discipleship Training was held from 25 - 30
July at Ambrose University, Alberta. About
15 participants from 3 different provinces
attended the DTP. Dony Peter along with
local resource led the participants through
training.
 Eastern Gathering
An Eastern Gathering was held from 14 - 16
August 2015. Around 25 youth and young
adults gathered at the Seneca College,
 Formation Plans
Around 150 leaders attended a training
for the implementation of the formation
plans, conducted by Manoj Sunny and Toms
Michael from 15-22 May 2015.
National Leaders’ Training, India
Vinod Nair
 Commitment Day
Around 300 JYs from different parishes
of Kuwait took part in the commitment
ceremony (25 May 2015) and the
real presence of the Holy Spirit was
felt throughout the day. The signed
commitment paper was collected and the
daily JY Prayer was circulated. The new road
map for JY Kuwait was also presented on
the occasion.
 Medical Training Programme
Medical ministry organized a training
programme (19-20 July 2015) at the City
Cathedral for medical professionals who
had earlier attended various JY initial
level programmes. Manoj P. Jose was the
resource for the programme in which
around 120 participants had a deeper
commitment towards the movement.
‘Quench’, Singapore
31st EDITION PAGE 15
GLOBAL NEWSWATCH
Cultural Exchange Programme 2015, India
 Outreach Encounter Programme
About 75 people attended a two-day
Encounter programme (18-19 July 2015)
which was arranged for camp dwellers by
the outreach team at Abbasiya.
 National Family Gathering
A half day gathering for families was
arranged at Abassia Hall on 18 Jul 2015 in
which around 110 families took part.
 National Adoration Day
With the initiative of the intercession
ministry a half day adoration was conducted
on 14 Aug at the national level in which
more than 250 members took part.
 ‘EnlighTeen’ – Teens Encounter Programme
A three day Jesus Encounter programme for
teenagers named ‘EnlighTeen’ was conducted
at the Holy Family Cathedral, Kuwait City
on 23 and 24 of Sept 2015. The theme of the
programme was “He lifts up the soul and
makes the eyes sparkle” (Sirach 34:20). The
main resources were Geo Pallipuram from
India and Mini Scherwell from UAE. More than
360 teenagers attended the same and it was
a life changing experience for most of them.
The programme was intended to give a Jesus
encounter experience for the teenagers and
also to promote the teens ministry activities in
the country. The participants were filled with
zeal through the programme and it also led to
a phase shift for the Teens Ministry in Kuwait
with many new initiatives in the 4 regions of
the country.
 Christmas Celebration
Christmas Celebration for all the JYs was
held on 8 January 2016 in which more than
300 people attended. It was a great time for
fellowship and a get together to connect with
one another more closely and personally.
 Angels’ Family Day
Under the initiative of the Family Team a
half day programme was arranged for kids
on 2 Jan 2016 at Abbasia in which around
100 children and their families attended .
The day went well with their small activities,
performances and prayers.
‘Crucis Singapura’, Singpore
 Agua-Viva – Encounter Programme
Under the initiative of the English Team, a
two day Encounter programme in English
was conducted on the National Level in
which around 150 people attended. It was
followed by an Encounter programme,
which included three days of training and
formation at the Dana Church, Salmiya for
selected 30 participants. The main resources
were C. C. Joseph and Jude Antoine from
Malaysia.
Manu Micheal
INDIA
 Cultural Exchange Programme 2015
Around 230 participants from 17 states
participated in the Cultural Exchange
Programme 2015. The programme started
on 12 December 2015 and concluded on 1
January 2016. After the retreat at the Divine
Retreat Centre, Muringoor, the participants
were sent to different zones across the
state. They came back together for the final
gathering held in Kothamangalam Diocese.
the annual day of Jesus Youth Singapore.
As part of its 15th anniversary, a special logo
designed for ‘JY SG 15’ was launched at ‘Alive’.
Spiritual Director Fr. Frederick Quek led the
commitment ceremony.
 ‘Crucis Singapura’
‘Crucis Singapura’ - a Jesus Youth initiative
- has been an integral part of the Lenten
observances. On the 28 March, 134 pilgrims
from 12 locations took part in ‘Crucis
Singapura’, walking from the North, South,
East and West of Singapore, tracing the sign
of the cross over the island. The pilgrims
paid no heed to the blistering heat or the
pouring rain as they walked barefoot, while
meditating and praying the Stations of the
Cross, the Divine Mercy Chaplet and the
Rosary, interceding specially for the various
intentions of the Catholic Church and the
Archdiocese of Singapore.
Nobin Jose
 National Trainings 2015
The National Trainings for the year 2015
were held from 1 - 10 October, 2015 at the
St. Joseph Vaz Retreat Centre, Goa. There
were 2 leaders’ trainings - one in Hindi and
the other in English. An Animators’ training
was also organized during these days. There
were nearly 80 participants in total for all
the 3 trainings.
Shoy Thomas
Singapore
 ‘Quench’ Youth Retreat
‘Quench 2015’, is spiritual nourishment for the
group of Singapore Youth who came seeking
to quench their thirst for the Lord Jesus. The
retreat was led by Jesus Youth Singapore, at
the Choice Retreat House from 6 - 8 August.
 Alive
On 31 May 2015, JY Singapore came together
at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi for ‘Alive’,
Your birth, O Blessed Virgin Mary,
heralded joy to all the world.
For it was the Father’s will that
his word should take to himself
our human nature in your
womb. Pray for us, that we may
be shaped in the likeness of the
divine nature of your son, our
Redeemer.
Printed and Published by Mr. C. C. Joseph on behalf of Jesus Youth International Office, 6F Thadikaran Centre, Palarivattom P.O., Cochin-682 025, Kerala, INDIA, Ph: +91 484-4054870, 4054371, Fax: +91-484-4054870, Email: [email protected]
 www.jesusyouth.org  Editor-in-charge: Shelton Pinheiro  Editorial Team: Beena Manoj & Anu Pinheiro  Layout: Sanil Augustine  Printed by SR Graphics, Kottayam, Ph:+91 481-2301142