The International Mission and JPIC Commission (IMJC), in collaboration with the Provincial Council of Raipur, organized a two-day workshop on January 28 - 29, 2025, at JMJ Provincialate Raipur. The workshop was held under the theme: “Empowering Youth to Discover, Develop, and Lead.” The workshop aimed to empower and equip sisters from four provinces to initiate and enhance youth ministry at the inter-provincial level. This two-days seminar aimed at equipping the youth animators with the skills and knowledge to lead and inspire the young people on their faith journey. Total 30 sisters from four provinces and few of the youth from St. Mary’s Church Raipur were part of it. The program sought to address the spiritual, emotional, socio - cultural needs of young people while equipping them for leadership roles in the Church and the world. Fr. Dr. Yeruva Joji Reddy SDB, a renowned expert in youth engagement and leadership development was the resource person for the workshop. Fr. Joji Reddy emphasized the importance of understanding the challenges young people face and encouraged animators to be empathetic, innovative and proactive in their approach to youth ministry.

Fr. Joji encouraged the participants to start youth ministry in their own educational institutions, focusing on integral formation of the heart, head and hands through proper accompaniment and follow-up. He emphasized the need to establish networks among educators to share experiences, develop dedicated leaders and engage unorganized youth in their neighborhoods. Key areas of focus for youth ministry included providing guidance on career development, personal issues and personality growth. The program concluded with participants reflecting on the powerful mantra that ‘youth are the heart of the Church.’

The seminar not only empowered youth animators but also reaffirmed the importance of standing by the youth, working for their cause and ensuring their holistic development. It provided clarity on the mission ahead and gave participants the necessary guidelines to begin their work with enthusiasm and vision. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Mary Karickakunnel, Superior General, and her Council, as well as to Sr. Marykutty and her Council, for their timely support and invaluable contribution to the success of this workshop.