Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 2: Conference of Religious India (CRI) celebrated the Day of Consecrated Life with the youth on February 1 at Loyola Auditorium, St Aloysius College, centred on the theme ‘A Day of Consecrated Life with the Youth’.
The programme commenced with a meaningful inaugural ceremony, where the joy of consecrated life was symbolically expressed through a heart attached to a candle. The event was inaugurated by Fr Sylvester D’Souza, OCD, Provincial. All participants entered the auditorium holding lighted candles, creating a deeply prayerful ambience.
This was followed by the Holy Eucharist, with Fr Sylvester D’Souza as the main celebrant. In his homily, he highlighted the joy of being consecrated, quoting Pope Francis, who calls religious to be joyful, approachable, and compassionate witnesses, especially to the youth.
After a snack break, the next session was led by Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, featuring a lively and enriching panel discussion. The youth openly shared their views and concerns, emphasising the need for religious to be more approachable, transparent, supportive, and good listeners. The importance of confidentiality, better communication, moral support, and guidance in discerning God’s call amid modern challenges was strongly highlighted.
An enactment by the youth added depth to the session, portraying real-life struggles through thought-provoking themes such as:
1. Mobile phones / Social Media vs the call of God.
2. Modern lifestyle vs religious calling
3. Change in Christian families & God's call
4. Religious life (of service and prayer) a Counter - culture.
The enactments were impactful and helped both the youth and consecrated persons reflect on the challenges and responsibilities of living faith authentically today.
As a mark of appreciation, mementoes were presented to the panel members, youth representatives, CRI executive committee members, zonal presidents, and the secretary.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by the president, Fr Dominic vas, followed by lunch.
Around 650 priests and religious, 120 youth participated in the programme. The day was a great success, fostering meaningful dialogue, mutual understanding, and renewed commitment between consecrated persons and the youth.