KOINONIA 2026 Forms Young Catholic Leaders in Faith and Fellowship

Bengaluru, April 7, 2026: In a concerted effort to nurture faith-driven leadership among youth, a two-day residential programme titled “KOINONIA 2026: Building Fellowship, Leadership and Faith in Christ” brought together newly elected Regional YCS/YSM Executive Committee members for formation and reflection in Bengaluru.

Hosted at the Subhodana Pastoral Centre under the aegis of KROSS, the programme centred on the theme “KOINONIA – Fellowship, Unity, and Growing Together with Christ.” It provided a structured environment for young leaders to deepen their spiritual grounding while strengthening their leadership responsibilities.

The programme commenced with a prayerful reflection led by Fr. Ashwin Cardoza, who emphasised the importance of Christ-centred leadership. He called on participants to embrace responsibility and commitment in their roles, rooted firmly in Gospel values.

Formation sessions combined spiritual depth with personal development. Fr. Steeven guided participants through an engaging session on self-awareness, incorporating creative exercises such as self-portrait drawing. The introduction of the Johari Window model enabled participants to reflect on their personalities through dimensions of openness, hidden traits, blind spots, and potential for growth, encouraging greater self-understanding and openness to feedback.

A significant component of the programme was the application of the See–Judge–Act methodology, offering a practical framework for discernment. Participants were encouraged to analyse real-life situations, evaluate them in the light of the Gospel, and respond with responsibility and conviction—an approach aimed at equipping them for leadership in contemporary contexts.

Spiritual formation remained at the heart of the initiative, with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and reflective sessions reinforcing the day’s learnings. Team-building exercises further highlighted resilience, presenting challenges and failures as opportunities for growth.

An interactive role-play session added a practical dimension to the training. Participants assumed roles such as media personnel, IPS officers, and district administrators to simulate the organisation of a YCS/YSM convention. The exercise fostered communication skills, teamwork, and critical thinking, preparing them for real-world responsibilities.

Moments of prayer and reflection were deepened through Eucharistic Adoration, followed by a sharing session where participants expressed personal experiences and aspirations. This exchange strengthened bonds within the group and fostered a spirit of unity and mutual support.

As part of their exposure, participants visited the Vidhana Soudha and St. Joseph’s University, gaining insights into leadership within civic and academic institutions.

More than a training programme, KOINONIA 2026 emerged as a formative experience, shaping a generation of young Catholic leaders committed to living out their faith through fellowship, service, and mission.

By Christopher D’Costa

Regional General Secretary

YCS/YSM Regional Team