Fr. Divya Paul – Youth Director – Archdiocese of Bangalore

Mangalore, Aug 20: In an effort to harness the energy, imagination and initiative of the world’s youth in overcoming the challenges facing humankind, from enhancing peace to boosting economic development, the United Nations has proclaimed an International Year of Youth starting on 12 August 2010.  Under the theme ‘Dialogue and Mutual Understanding,’ the Year aims to encourage dialogue and understanding across generations and promote the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and freedoms, and solidarity.  The Year will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the first International Youth Year in 1985.

The Archdiocese of Bangalore will inaugurate the year of youth on August 20th 2010 at a Solemn Function at St. Francis Xavier’s cathedral. The Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras will unfurl the ‘Year of Youth’ Banner in an impressive setting of youth in music and dance to kick off a year of non stop celebration of Youth in our midst.

Adopting the theme … “Rise and Shine....for a better world” the church in Bangalore will welcome youth to be beacons of hope to the world at large. This year aims to enable, empower and energize youth to be the beacon of light to the world by their dynamism and undying spirit.