35 Young People Pledge to Become Lay Missionaries

New Delhi, March 17, 2025: Thirty-five young leaders from northern India have pledged to become lay missionaries, dedicating themselves to the Church’s missionary activities. The commitment came during the third batch of the Communio Volunteer Training Programme, currently underway at Don Bosco, Okhla, New Delhi.

Bringing together enthusiastic young Catholics from various regions, the event highlights the passion and commitment of India’s youth toward the mission of the Church. The training, organized by the CCBI Youth Commission in collaboration with Communio, aims to equip members of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) with the spiritual and practical skills needed for missionary work.

Inaugural Eucharistic Celebration and Message of Mission

Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI and Director of Communio, celebrated the inaugural Holy Eucharist, inspiring the participants to deepen their faith. In his homily, he emphasized the responsibility of being a missionary disciple and the importance of communion—both with God and within the community.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. Alathara formally inaugurated the third batch of Communio Volunteers, setting the stage for an intensive and transformative journey.

A Comprehensive Training Experience

The week-long program blends spiritual, educational, and recreational activities designed to engage participants on multiple levels. Workshops, faith-sharing sessions, outdoor games, group activities, and spiritual animation form the core of the training. Additionally, a pilgrimage experience will offer the volunteers an opportunity to connect deeply with the spiritual roots of their faith.

Group dynamics, one-on-one sharing sessions, and inspirational talks further enhance the program, fostering personal growth, camaraderie, and a profound sense of mission. The training is spearheaded by a dedicated team of clergy and religious, including Fr. Chetan Machado, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Youth Commission; Fr. Vignan Das, Associate Director of Communio; and Sr. Margarita Dias SCB, Animator for Communio Volunteers. Various other resource persons will also contribute, ensuring the participants receive holistic formation.

Empowering Future Missionaries

This unique program not only imparts knowledge but instills a missionary spirit in young Catholics, empowering them to carry the message of Christ into the world. The participants are encouraged to foster unity and communion within their communities, living out their faith through service and leadership.

In the coming days, Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi and Bishop Ignatius D’Souza of Bareilly, Chairman of the CCBI Youth Commission, will preside over Holy Mass, further inspiring the young missionaries. The training will conclude on March 22, marking the beginning of a new journey for these committed lay leaders.

By Sr. Margarita Dias, S.C.B. 

Animator, Communio Volunteers