Diocese of Darjeeling, ICYM-Sikkim Conduct Jubilee 2025 Youth Retreat in Pakyong

Pakyong, February 10, 2025 - The Diocese of Darjeeling-Sikkim, in collaboration with the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), conducted the Annual Diocesan Youth Charismatic Jubilee 2025 Retreat from January 13 to 16, 2025, at St. Xavier’s School, Pakyong. Organized under the leadership of Fr. Chrispin Tamang (DYD), Sr. Seera Lama SJC (DYLA), and other coordinators, the retreat focused on the theme "Renewing and Enriching the Catholic Faith" (Acts 2:41-47), aiming to inspire the youth through spiritual enrichment and faith formation.

The first day of the event commenced with the ADYR Cross Procession from Christ the King Parish to the retreat venue. This was followed by an inaugural ceremony featuring a flag hoisting, lighting of the lamp, a rendition of the ADYC theme song "Yahweh the Trinity," and a prayer dance by ICYM, St. John’s Basilica. Mr. Evan Lepcha delivered the Presidential Address, after which Rt. Rev. Bp. Stephen Lepcha officially declared the retreat open. The evening concluded with a Diocesan Bhajan Idol competition and a felicitation program honouring distinguished guests, including Hon. Sir GT Dhungel, Health Minister of Sikkim.

Faith Formation and Worship Sessions

The four-day retreat featured intensive prayer, worship, and faith formation sessions. Each morning began with a Rosary, led by ZEXCO and Pedong Deanery, followed by the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Rt. Rev. Stephen Lepcha.

On the first day of the retreat, Rev. Fr. Robin Kalikotay conducted a session on the Holy Eucharist, followed by a powerful testimony from Mr. Satyaprakash Yadav. He later led a session titled "You’re Loved by the Lord" (Romans 5:8), reflecting on the depth of God's love. His final session, "Becoming Love and Witness Enriched by the Holy Spirit," provided a compelling conclusion to the day’s teachings.

On the second day, the youth began their morning with a praise and worship session. This was followed by a session on "How Can I Relate Holy Scripture to My Life," led by Fr. Arun Francis. A testimony from Mr. Rijo & Mrs. Rachel highlighted the power of faith during personal struggles. The day’s events included a Gospel concert performed by priests, filling the hall with uplifting worship music. Mr. Rijo & Mrs. Rachel later conducted a session on "Theology of the Body," emphasising human dignity and God’s purpose for the body and soul. This was followed by a session titled "We Are the Pro-Life Generation," reinforcing Catholic teachings on the sanctity of life. The evening concluded with a session on "Inner Healing—Introduction & Importance," preparing participants for a deeply reflective Inner Healing Adoration, Confession, and Counselling session.

Closing Day: Strengthening the Faith Journey

The final day began with an early morning Thanksgiving Praise & Worship, led by the Music Ministry. This was followed by a session on "Faith & Vocation Sharing," delivered by Rev. Fr. Kinley Tshering, S.J., who provided valuable insights into discerning one's calling and deepening the faith journey.

The Holy Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Rev. Fr. Jerad Lepcha, Dean of North East Sikkim, marked the spiritual culmination of the retreat. As the event concluded, the Retreat Cross was dethroned, symbolising the participants' renewed commitment to carrying their faith back to their communities.

The Jubilee 2025 Youth Retreat successfully strengthened the faith of young Catholics, inspiring them to embark on their spiritual journey with renewed hope and conviction.

By Fr. Ronald Rai