Young Priests and Religious Trained to Walk with Gen Z in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, October 29, 2025: The Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council (TCBC) Youth Commission successfully organised the Training Programme for Young Priests and Religious in Youth Ministry at Don Bosco Provincial House (BIRDY), Hyderabad, from October 27–28, to help priests and religious understand, guide, and walk with Gen Z in faith and mission.

Over 110 participants from nine dioceses and 17 religious provinces took part in the two-day programme held under the theme “Empowering Young Animators.” The sessions focused on equipping priests and religious to engage effectively with young people in faith and mission.

Fr. D. Raja, Professor at St. John’s Regional Seminary, offered deep insights in his session on “Youth and the Bible,” highlighting the importance of Scripture as the foundation of every young person’s faith journey. Fr. Thomas Santiagu, SDB, Provincial of INH, delivered a dynamic talk on “Understanding the Youth of Today,” encouraging participants to recognise the unique challenges and potential of the present generation. 

Sharing his reflections on “The Synodal Approach to Youth Ministry,”Fr. Joji, SDB, Youth Director of INH, emphasised the need for listening, collaboration, and shared responsibility within the Church. Fr. Medi Sleevaraj, SDB, Regional Youth Director, provided a detailed explanation on “Structures of ICYM,” outlining how organised frameworks can help strengthen youth participation and leadership in the Church.

The Holy Mass was celebrated by Bishop Rayarala Vijaya Kumar, PIME, Chairman Bishop of the TCBC Youth Commission, followed by a session by Fr. Anand Andrew from Eluru Diocese on “Youth, Rooted in Christ: The Role of Youth in the Church.”

Fr. Ernest Rosario, SDB, Professor of Technology and Media and Coordinator of BOSCOM (Don Bosco Media Network of South Asia) guided participants on how to use technology and media effectively in youth ministry to connect with today’s generation.

The training concluded with a thanksgiving as participants departed with a renewed mission — to serve as faith-filled leaders who bridge the Church and Gen Z through creativity, compassion, and digital evangelisation.

By Manisha Sharon

Youth Secretary