Jesuit Youth Ministry of South Asia, in collaboration with the Patna Jesuit Youth Commission, successfully organized a five-day Youth Animation Training Program on 04-09 May 2025, at Atmadarshan, Patna. This joint initiative brought together participants from both the JCSA North and Central zones to foster leadership and collaboration among Jesuit scholastics and youth animators. A total of 22 participants took part in the training, including 12 Jesuit scholastics, 2 Jesuit priests, and 8 youth animators. The program was inaugurated on the evening of May 4 with a warm welcome and dynamic ice-breaking sessions facilitated by members of the Bihar AICUF unit.
Fr. Vernard Antony SJ, JCSA Youth Coordinator, delivered the keynote address on the first day, urging participants to focus their youth ministry on unorganised youth, who often lack opportunities for empowerment and responsibility in society. He encouraged the participants to equip themselves well and actively accompany young people, guiding them toward the right direction in life.
The first segment of the training, held on May 5–6, was led by Fr. Alwyn Vaz SJ, focusing on the theme “Transformational Ignatian Leadership for Today.” Participants explored the richness of Ignatian spirituality, particularly the concept of “Ignatian pearls,” and how these can be applied to youth leadership with a strong emphasis on self-awareness.
From May 7–9, the second segment emphasized practical skills in youth engagement and program organization. This portion was animated by Ms. Delphina George and Sch. Reuell Paul SJ, and featured a variety of interactive activities aimed at equipping participants with tools for effective youth ministry.
One of the highlights of the program was the meaningful interaction between Jesuit scholastics and youth, representing a valuable blend of tradition and contemporary perspectives. The program not only fostered leadership development but also deepened mutual understanding across generations and regions. The Youth Animation Training Program concluded on a hopeful note, with participants energized and inspired to take their learning back to their respective communities.
By Fr. A. Prakash SJ, Patna JYMSA Coordinator
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