- 29 November, 2025
Penang, Malaysia 29 Nov 2025: Young Catholics from India shared moving reflections at the FABC Congress, each speaking with conviction about faith, unity, and mission. Their words show how deeply the Pilgrimage of Hope has touched the new generation. They were the parts of the CCBI Delegation to the FABC Congress on Great Pilgrimage of Hope held in Penang, Malaysia from 27 to 30 November 2025.
Vaibhav Parkhe, Diocese of Aurangabad: He said the sessions renewed his understanding of mission. He discovered the value of true encounter, listening, and walking together as a synodal Church. Representing India strengthened his resolve to guide young people with honesty and a heart of service.
Raju Challagali, Archdiocese of Hyderabad: He described the Pilgrimage of Hope as a powerful meeting of faith, culture, and unity. Meeting Church leaders made the experience unforgettable and strengthened his commitment to the Church in Asia.
Anson Clement Nazareth, Diocese of Udupi: He said the gathering showed the real strength of a Synodal Church. For him, youth are not only the future but the present. The experience renewed his desire to serve with love and work together for a vibrant mission.
Anuj Ninama, Diocese of Jhabua: Coming from a small diocese, he felt the pilgrimage was like a dream come true. He realized that mission starts within. Only when he lives the story of Jesus in his own life, he said, can he share it with others.
Adv. Antony Judy, Archdiocese of Verapoly: He called the event a transformative moment. Being among Church leaders and young people showed him the shared mission for 2033. He was inspired by the message that hope is a journey chosen together, and he renewed his commitment to serve with courage.
Apurva Xess, Diocese of Raigar: She returned encouraged by the power of preaching through witness and storytelling. Hearing the struggles and successes of other nations renewed her desire to serve with courage, creativity, and compassion.
Jimmy Pdang, Diocese of Jowai: He said the pilgrimage deepened his call to walk with Jesus. He felt urged to wear the “shoes of humility,” listen to Scripture, and rebuild his community with hope through simple actions.
Amisha Cutinha, Meerut Diocese: She called the FABC experience a moment of unity and joy. Walking together in faith reminded her that hope grows when people journey side by side.
Sagar Gabbeta, Diocese of Warangal: He described the pilgrimage as a strong sign of unity among Asian Catholics. The theme inspired him to embrace a renewed spirit of communion, participation, and mission.
Supriaya Varghese: Diocese of Shimoga: It gave me a chance to meet young people from many Asian cultures. I was deeply moved by the Church’s rich diversity and the strong faith I saw in others. The experience renewed my commitment as a youth leader from India.
There were 16 youth delegates participated in the Congress reprsenting the CCBI. The CCBI is the larges Bishops Conference in Asia with 132 diocese and 217 Bishops serving 18 million Latin Catholic faithful.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
© 2025 CATHOLIC CONNECT POWERED BY ATCONLINE LLP