The Jesuit Conference of South Asia (JCSA), through the Jesuit Youth Ministry South Asia (JYMSA), organised MAGIS Jaipur 2026, a three-day South Asian-level youth gathering, from 17 to 19 October at St. Xavier’s College, Nevta, Jaipur. Held under the theme “Living Hope, Awakening Hope,” the event brought together 425 young people from 17 Jesuit provinces of South Asia, along with 40 Jesuit priests, 3 deacons, 12 scholastics, one diocesan brother, six religious sisters and four women animators.

The gathering began with the inaugural Eucharist presided over by Fr. Stany D’Souza, President of JCSA, in the presence of Fr. Ajit Kumar Xess, designated POSA, and other Jesuit leaders. In his welcome address, Fr. Vernard Antony, JCSA Youth Coordinator, invited the young people to become signs of hope through kindness, compassion and service. He emphasised JYMSA’s commitment to reaching unreached and marginalised youth and encouraged participants to live the spirit of MAGIS by loving more deeply and serving more generously.

The first day featured resource sessions by Srimathi Shuchi Sharma, IAS, and Fr. John Ravi, Superior and Administrator of St. Xavier’s College, Nevta. The evening concluded with a vibrant Rajasthani cultural performance.

The second day was dedicated to immersion and experiential learning. Participants visited Mother Teresa Homes, took part in pilgrimage experiences and engaged in village immersion programmes. These encounters helped them understand the realities of the poor and marginalised and reflect on their responsibility towards society. MAGIS Circle sharing sessions provided space for reflection and mutual listening. A colourful cultural evening, featuring performances by different provinces, celebrated the rich diversity of South Asia and strengthened bonds of friendship.

The concluding day began with the Eucharist presided over by Bishop Joseph Kallarackal, Bishop of Jaipur. Participants also engaged in MAGIS Circle sharing and future planning, reflecting on how to carry the spirit of MAGIS into their respective provinces and communities. Action songs and energising activities added enthusiasm throughout the three days, while the Ignatian Examen at the end of each day enabled participants to recognise God’s presence in their experiences.

In his thanksgiving address, Fr. Vernard Antony expressed gratitude to the Jesuit community of St. Xavier’s College, Nevta, especially Fr. John Ravi, whose leadership, hospitality and personal involvement from the planning stage to the conclusion contributed immensely to the success of the gathering. He also thanked the JCSA leadership, province JYMSA coordinators, organising team, religious sisters, animators, college staff and volunteers for their generous support and commitment.

MAGIS Jaipur 2026 was more than a youth event; it was an experience of faith, friendship, cultural exchange, immersion and discernment. It reaffirmed JYMSA’s vision of MAGIS as a movement and a way of life, committed to accompanying young people, especially the unreached and marginalised. As the participants returned to their provinces, they were encouraged to become living signs of hope, promote peace and justice, care for the environment and inspire others through their lives.

Reported by Fr. Vernard Antony, SJ, JCSA Youth Coordinator