The Third JHAAN Youth Meet, 2022, was held in St. Joseph’s Parish, Mahuadanr, in the diocese of Daltonganj, from 2nd Oct to 5th Oct 2022. Over 5500 youth had gathered for the youth meet from 8 dioceses: Daltonganj, Dumka, Gumla, Hazaribag, Jamshedpur, Khunti, Ranchi, and Simdega. The youth from the Andamans could not participate on account of their exams.
The statement of Fr. Constant Lievens, SJ, the apostle of Chotanagpur and the Servant of God—Fire must burn—was the theme chosen for the meet. The fire of faith which was ignited in Chotanagpur by Fr. Lievens must continue to burn. In his welcome address, Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, the Auxiliary Bishop of Ranchi and Apostolic Administrator of Daltonganj, exhorted the youth: “The fire of love of God, the fire of enthusiasm, the fire of discipline, the fire of faith must burn in our hearts.” There were seven other bishops present, including the Apostolic Nuncio of India and Nepal – His Excellency Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, to encourage and support the youth. In his message to the young people, Nuncio Girelli affirmed: “God’s love is always attractive and when we live in God’s love, we become attractive. So be attractive by living your Christian life and be the light for others.”
The purpose of the JHAAN Youth Meet was to come together to worship together and to know one another. It was also an occasion to conscientize young people about the current challenging situation of our society and to empower them to face the challenges in their life. Love for their language and culture was emphasized to maintain their heritage and identity.
The participants appreciated Bishop Mascarenhas under whose leadership the meet was creatively conducted. They felt satisfied that the meet was successful in re-inflaming the words of Fr. Lievens in their hearts.
Arbind Beck, SJ
New Delhi
