The South Zone of the Jesuit Youth Ministry of South Asia (JYMSA) organized a Youth Animators’ Training Programme on Social Analysis from 2 to 4 October 2026 at Dhyana Ashram, Chennai. The programme brought together 30 young people from the Jesuit provinces of Andhra, Kerala, Karnataka, Chennai and Madurai to deepen their understanding of social realities and strengthen their commitment to justice and social transformation. Fr. Maria Kennedy, SJES Coordinator of the Chennai Province, organized the programme and coordinated the arrangements.
Fr. Rayappan Ignasi, SJ, served as the resource person and guided the participants in understanding social analysis and its relevance to youth ministry. The training aimed to help young animators critically examine the realities of society and equip themselves to accompany young people in responding to social challenges with awareness, responsibility and a commitment to justice.
Fr. Vernard Antony, SJ, JCSA Youth Coordinator, was present with the young animators. Through his address and personal interactions, he encouraged them to become active and committed leaders who accompany young people and help them understand the social realities around them. He emphasized the importance of guiding youth towards truth and justice and developing a deep concern for society, especially for those who are marginalized and vulnerable.
Fr. Vernard invited the participants to take up their leadership responsibilities with enthusiasm and commitment, moving beyond individual concerns to engage with the wider social realities of their communities. He encouraged them to become leaders who not only inspire other young people but also walk alongside them, helping them grow in awareness, responsibility and a spirit of service.
The training was an important initiative of the South Zone JYMSA to strengthen youth leadership and promote socially conscious youth ministry across the participating provinces. The organizers expressed their sincere gratitude to the Dhyana Ashram community for their generous hospitality and for making all the necessary arrangements for the successful conduct of the programme.
Reported by Fr. Vernard Antony, SJ, JCSA Youth Coordinator
