- 14 August, 2026
AHMEDABAD, August 14, 2026: Young Catholics in Ahmedabad were challenged to translate their faith into social responsibility and use their education, professional skills and leadership abilities for the service of society during National Youth Sunday 2026.
Organised by the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) of Ahmedabad Diocese under the guidance of its director, Fr. Edwin Anand, the programme brought together young people for discussions on faith, careers, health, leadership, service and civic responsibility.
A documentary featuring ICYM youth from Ahmedabad Diocese and messages from young people who had participated in a fast at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, highlighted the role of young people in responding to concerns affecting the nation, society and humanity.
Jesuit priest Fr. Cedric Prakash addressed the gathering on “Faith in Action & Social Responsibility,” exploring the relationship between Christian faith, service, justice and responsibility towards society.
Benedict Solanki, speaking on “Path to Public Service,” provided guidance on government examinations, career options and opportunities in public service. Sr. Althiya Raj FC, in her session “Run with Hope – Finish with Purpose,” encouraged young people to pursue their goals with patience, perseverance and hope.
The programme also addressed personal well-being. Dr. Preeti Rathod and Shailesh Rathod spoke on “Work-Life Balance & Healthy Living,” stressing the importance of balancing family, studies, professional commitments, health and faith. Fr. Suresh Antony SJ addressed mental and emotional well-being, while Fr. Jerald spoke on “The Choice That Shapes Your Life,” focusing on discipline, accountability and the long-term consequences of personal decisions.
Young achievers were recognised through the Youth Icon Awards, which highlighted academic achievement, professional aspirations and service to the nation.
Haiyu Vaghela, who cleared the GATE examination after completing his B.Tech and secured admission to the M.Tech programme at IIT Gandhinagar, was honoured for his academic achievement and perseverance.
Komil Parmar, who is pursuing Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at IIT Guwahati, was recognised for achievements in research and international competitions. Educationist and career coach Selvin Palejkar, founder of BeyondXII and an IIT Madras alumnus, received recognition for his work in career guidance and student development.
Arpan Christie, selected as an Agniveer in the Indian Army, was honoured for pursuing her aspiration to serve the country. Jarvish McEwan, a young football referee from Gandhinagar, was recognised for his selection to the AFC Referee Academy in Malaysia and his ambition to qualify as a FIFA referee.
The celebration included deanery-level motivational sessions, dialogues, seminars, worship and a Christ Yagya organised by young women. The activities gave participants opportunities to assume responsibilities in planning, coordination, management and leadership.
The interaction with speakers from diverse professional backgrounds was aimed at strengthening young people's confidence, critical thinking, decision-making and leadership skills, while encouraging them to move from personal achievement to social contribution.
The programme received support from ICYM council members of Ahmedabad Diocese, deanery youth in-charge priests and religious, youth mentors Shailesh Rathod and Dr. Preeti Rathod, and parish priests of Divyadayadham and Salon, including Fr. Arul and Fr. Prakash.
The celebration underlined the message that youth ministry is not limited to spiritual formation but also seeks to equip young people to become responsible citizens and active contributors to the Church and wider society.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
© 2026 CATHOLIC CONNECT POWERED BY ATCONLINE LLP
