Online Prayer Initiative Inspires Rayagada Youth to Deepen Faith

Rayagada, Odisha, March 5, 2026: A new online prayer initiative aimed at strengthening the spiritual lives of young Catholics has been launched in the Diocese of Rayagada, encouraging youth to deepen their faith and become active witnesses of Christian values in society.

The programme, titled “Arise & Shine,” was introduced by the diocesan unit of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), drawing inspiration from the biblical call in Book of Isaiah 60:1: “Arise, shine, for your light has come.” The initiative invites young people to participate in regular online moments of prayer and reflection designed to strengthen their spiritual journey.

The programme was inaugurated by Aplinar Senapati, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rayagada, who described the initiative as the beginning of a renewed chapter in the faith life of the diocesan youth.

Addressing participants during the launch, Bishop Senapati encouraged young people to remain firmly rooted in prayer and to trust in God’s plan for their lives. He urged them to actively engage with the online prayer platform as a means of nurturing their relationship with God and strengthening their spiritual commitment.

The bishop reminded the youth that they are not only the future of the Church but also its present, called to live their faith with dedication and to lead by example through discipline, service, and a vibrant spiritual life.

Reflecting on the theme “Called to Rise, Chosen to Shine,” he invited the youth to rise above fear, distractions, and worldly pressures, and to become authentic witnesses of Christ in their daily lives. According to the bishop, the online prayer initiative aims to create a spiritual space that connects hearts, fosters unity among young people, and deepens their encounter with God.

The message resonated strongly with participants, inspiring them to renew their commitment to be bearers of hope and light within their families, parishes, and wider society. Through the initiative, ICYM Rayagada hopes to encourage youth to grow spiritually while remaining actively involved in the mission and life of the Church.

By Amit Dev

President ICYM