- 20 June, 2026
Pune, June 20, 2026: Youth leaders from across western India came together in Pune for the Western Region Youth Council Meeting 2026, reaffirming their commitment to faith formation, family values and environmental stewardship. Held from June 13 to 14 at the Convent of Our Lady of Fátima in the Pune Diocese, the gathering brought together representatives from Gujarat, Maharashtra and Goa under the theme, “Faith Formation, Family and Environment.”
The two-day meeting was attended by 12 Youth Directors, 10 Animators, 24 Council Members, members of the DEXCO Team of the Pune Diocese, and several youth leaders from across the region. The programme provided a platform for reflection, collaboration and planning for the future of youth ministry in the Western Region.
A symbolic sapling-watering ceremony inaugurated the event, underscoring the participants’ commitment to ecological responsibility and care for creation. The gathering also featured prayer sessions, fellowship, cultural exchanges and team-building activities that fostered greater unity among the diocesan representatives.
Welcoming the participants, Fr. Christopher Vaz expressed gratitude to Bishop Barthol Barretto, Bishop Simon Almeida of Pune, the clergy and the DEXCO Team for their support and hospitality. Fr. Rohan conveyed the message of Bishop Simon Almeida, encouraging the young leaders with the inspiring words of St. John Bosco: “Do not close the door which God has opened.”
One of the major highlights of the meeting was a formation session led by Fr. S. Stephen Jayard titled “Be Wise, Not Otherwise – A Lesson for Ecology from Cosmology.” The session invited participants to reflect on the interconnectedness of faith and environmental responsibility. Leadership discussions and council meetings focused on strengthening youth ministry, promoting family values and advancing faith formation initiatives.
The gathering also witnessed the announcement of the Treasurer and Joint Treasurer of the Western Region Youth Council. A Holy Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Bishop Barthol Barretto, provided a spiritual centrepiece to the programme.
Representatives from various dioceses shared reports on their achievements and outlined forthcoming pastoral initiatives. Mr. Roy Pereira and Ms. Jenisha presented updates on regional programmes and future events aimed at engaging young people in the life and mission of the Church.
Participants were also briefed on several national initiatives, including the ACT Programme, Mission Discipleship Programme, National Youth Convention, National Youth Directors’ Meet and preparations for World Youth Day Seoul 2027.
The meeting further celebrated creativity and evangelisation through digital media with the distribution of prizes for the Regional Online Lenten Reel Competition. The Diocese of Amravati secured first place, while the Diocese of Aurangabad won both the second and third positions.
A significant announcement during the meeting was the appointment of Fr. Blaise Lobo of the Goa Archdiocese as the new Regional Youth Director for the 2026–2028 term. Fr. Christopher Vaz also presented updates from the national Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) and expressed appreciation to the three successive Western Region Youth Councils for their support and collaboration during his tenure as Regional Youth Director.
Addressing the gathering, Bishop Simon Almeida highlighted the importance of nurturing faith, strengthening family life and caring for the environment. He also felicitated the participating dioceses for their dedication to youth ministry and their efforts in building vibrant faith communities.
The meeting concluded with prayer and thanksgiving, leaving participants renewed in their mission to serve the Church and accompany young people across the Western Region in their journey of faith.
By Rashmita Gawai
WRYC- Secretary
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