Telugu Bishops Rally Behind Youth-Led Lenten Night Vigil in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, March 4, 2026: The bishops of the Telugu Region offered a visible sign of unity and encouragement to young Catholics with the formal unveiling of the poster for the forthcoming Lenten Night Vigil, “Create in Me a Clean Heart,” during the meeting of the Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council (TCBC).

The poster was released at St. John’s Regional Seminary in the presence of the region’s Church leadership, underscoring strong episcopal support for youth-led spiritual initiatives. The vigil, organised by the Church Gagillapur Deanery Youth Office, will be held on March 6 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.

The unveiling was led by Bishop Vijaya Kumar Rayarala, Chairman of the TCBC Commission for Youth, alongside Bishop Sagili Prakash and Bishop Joseph Thachaparambath, CMI. Their joint presence signalled a shared pastoral commitment to accompanying young people more closely during the season of Lent.

Also present were Fr. Sleevaraj, Regional Youth Director; Mr. Ajin Joseph, Chosen Catholic Engagement Manager; and Mr. Prashanth of the YU4C National Team. Their participation highlighted the growing collaboration between ecclesial leadership and youth-focused apostolates seeking to deepen faith engagement among the younger generation.

Rooted in the penitential Lenten theme drawn from Psalm 51, “Create in me a clean heart,” the Night Vigil is designed as an immersive experience of prayer and renewal. The programme will feature the screening of The Chosen, praise and worship, Eucharistic adoration, silent prayer, the rosary, group discussions, and the Stations of the Cross.

By releasing the poster during the TCBC meeting, the bishops reaffirmed institutional backing for youth ministry across the dioceses of the Telugu Region. As preparations intensify, organisers express hope that the vigil will provide young people a sacred space to step away from daily distractions and enter into a deeper encounter with Christ through communal prayer and reflection.

By Catholic Connect Reporter