The “door of faith” (Acts 14:27) is
always open for us, offering us the life of communion with God and offering
entry into His Church when the Word of God is proclaimed and the heart allows
itself to be transformed by grace.(Para 1 –Porta Fidei). Responding to
this invitation of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI to renew and rediscover
the faith, nearly 650 Jesus youth from different parts of Karnataka came
together as a family to know the faith, live the faith and share the
faith.
The ceaseless toils and tireless
preparations, finally paved way for the most awaited Karnataka Faith
Conference on January 25th Friday at Apostolic Carmel
Generate, Bangalore. The three day long conference happened in three different
streams for the youth in Kannada, English and for the families. The gathering
was graced by the presence of the Bishops of Karnataka- His Excellency Bishop
George Njarlakatt, Bishop Henry D’souza and Bishop Peter Machado. The program
officially started off with key note from Sunny Gudinho( KJYT Coordinator) and
the inauguration ceremony. This was followed by a choreography depicting the
culture of Karnataka blending well with the culture of faith. The very
enthusiastic and talented music team pacing with the youth vibes ensured that
the crowd is tuned to Christ all throughout the conference. Shedding light on
the richness of the Catholic Church and the Creed there were many eminent
speakers. Scrolling down the list of speakers one could find Dr Edward
Edezhath, Mr C C Joseph, Fr Franklin, Fr Bitaju, Fr Marie Joseph, Fr. Sunny
Kunneliparambil, Fr Njana Xavier, Fr. Ronald Cardoza, George Devassy, Alphons
Joseph from Rex Band and so on…..
The presence of Antony A.J, Immanuel
Joseph and Jose Sebastian from National team and Shoy Thomas (Coordinator,
Faith Conferences,India) created a brotherly atmosphere throughout the
Conference.
Abundance of grace and mercy filled the
place at the time of Indian style of adoration when all cried out to the living
God that they BELIEVE in and belong to ONE TRUE HOLY GOD. Blessings continued
with the true repentance and reconciliation with our Lord through the sacrament
of confession. Silent and sincere prayers rose from the hearts of the faithful
during the time of Taize prayer. Holy Eucharist, the highest form of adoration
became even more special with the plenary indulgence being granted. We had Holy
Mass celebrated in different rites and languages. Serenity and joy were filled
in the hearts as all joined the rosary night procession.
The other highlight of the program was
the audio visual skit explaining faith in a more dynamic way. Exhibitions and
stalls relevant to the year of faith were put up. 10 Optional seminars were
organized to cater to the needs of the people. Faith Interview was held to get
some clarifications on the Faith that we often take for granted. Ministry wise
gathering was the time of bombarding thoughts and dreams for God’s kingdom in
the land of Karnataka through their present lifestyle. The little ones enjoyed
the presence of the Lord in the Kids care centers. Additional medical care
facilities were also available. Boosting up energy of all for this great event
there was food ministry working day and night. Adding humor and
interesting feedbacks, voxpop was presented at the end of each day.
Though conference could not succeed in
covering even a fraction of our faith, it has definitely build a curiosity, a
deep desire and the untellable pride in being the part of the Mother Church.
Beyond expectations, God blessed the conference with the presence of 80
religious sisters and Priest. Understanding the beauty and worth of this
blessing the organizer took an immediate call for a separate stream of
religious to address the need of the religious in the youth evangelization.
Though the conference has ended it marks a new and fresh beginning in the
journey of our Faith. Joining with Mother Church, Karnataka Jesus youth is now
all set to celebrate this year of Faith at its fullest.
I am very grateful to the JYNT for
giving us the first opportunity to host Faith Conference in Karnataka.
