Vasai Church Brings 400 Youth Together for Active Church Participation

Vasai, August 23, 2025 — St. Peter’s Church, Koliwada, organised a Parish Youth Day that brought together nearly 400 young people in response to Pope Leo XIV’s recent call for authentic relationships rooted in Christ. The event sought to re-engage youth described as “Sunday Catholics,” those not actively involved in parish life, or caught up in worldly distractions.

Earlier this month, Pope Leo XIV had addressed nearly one million young people during the Jubilee of Youth in Rome, urging them to build genuine friendships, nurture faith, and make courageous choices in uncertain times. Inspired by this message, Fr. Francis Dabre and his team—Fr. Thomas Alfanso, Fr. Ramesh D’Souza, Fr. Joe Perira, Deacon Sanal, and the Fatima Sisters—organised the Vasai gathering, which proved to be a meaningful experience for both organisers and participants.

Fr. Nilesh Tuscano delivered the keynote address, challenging the youth to move beyond their comfort zones and become active in the Church’s mainstream life. Fr. Thomas Alfanso and Deacon Sanal Tuscano played a key role in reaching out to the grassroots. A stormy session of praise and worship, set to dance, energised the gathering.

Bishop Thomas D’Souza of Vasai Diocese visited the event, encouraging the youth to participate actively in the Church at every level. He joined in the celebrations, even dancing with the participants.

The programme also featured inputs from the local police on cybercrime and drug abuse, while Vasai Janhit Trust and the Diocesan Social Work Department spoke on the Church’s social teaching. Following the appeal made during the gathering, young people expressed enthusiasm for future programmes.

Participants exchanged experiences, enjoyed games, joined in extended praise and worship, and offered thanks to the Lord in the Holy Eucharist. The gathering renewed their energy, deepened their faith, and inspired them to take active roles in parish life and community service.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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