Bangalore Diocese

Encounter Jesus – Youth Retreat

March 9th 2014: ICYM and Holy Ghost Youth teamed up to bring 350 youth together for a fascinating day of prayer and reflection. March 9th 2014 was a special day for these young hearts that desired to find love in Jesus. The day began with a praise and Worship led by the worship team of Holy Ghost Youth and a Choreo. Fr. John Mathew the principle organizer of the event led the group in a short and meaningful prayer. Fr. Divia Paul the Archdiocesan Youth Director and Preacher at the retreat, in the two sessions that followed shared stories and jokes and brought to life events and people from the Holy Bible and in real life today to help the young understand how simple and easy it was to encounter Jesus. He said “when you start to seek Jesus, You become the sought….When you start to look for Him, He’s already found you.” The enthusiasm with which the youth responded was truly inspiring. The Archbishop paid a flying visit after lunch urging his youth to pray, seek and work zealously for peace and reconciliation in ones hearts, with others and with God. The afternoon session was an open debate and discussion on topics close to the heart of the youth. In discussing issues related to Values in the World, Women’s Role, Gay marriages, they seemed to come to terms with the beautiful and compassionate love of Christ and His teaching and the Church’s concern for the welfare of her children irrespective of who and what they are. This followed an absolute time of quiet and profound adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and a time for confessions. Rev. Fr. Jacob Britto concluded the day of Joy with the Holy Eucharist, praying for anointing of these young hearts with the Holy Spirit. The Youth returned home praising God….with some voicing their appreciation loud…”It was awesome…I need more of this…I want an overdose of Jesus…It felt like time flew quickly….I loved the quiet adoration with the chants….I feel so special….God is truly wonderful….."