aus tral i a@je s us yo uth. o rg
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dAyBreAk JESUS YOUTH AUSTRALIA NEWSLETTER
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
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Pope Francis’ VOCATION PRAYER
Hours of Grace
LORD OF THE HARVEST, BLESS young people with the gift of courage to respond to your call. Open their hearts to great ideals, to great things. INSPIRE all of your disciples to mutual love and giving—for vocations blossom in the good soil of faithful people. INSTIL those in religious life, parish ministries, and families with the confidence and grace to invite others to embrace the bold and noble path of a life consecrated to you. UNITE us to Jesus through prayer and sacrament, so that we may cooperate with you in building your reign of mercy and truth, of justice and peace. Amen. — Adapted from the Message on the 51st World Day of Prayer for Vocations
Thank you for the ongoing support
Jesus Youth Australia acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians in all Australian communities.
DOORS OF MERCY Mercy: The Key to One’s Heart, is the word that echoes in the Catholic Church these days, thanks to the frequent use of
it, both in words and actions by Pope Francis. We can rightly say that the theme of Mercy is the centre of his papacy.
8 Mission PNG & Nauru
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COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
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This newsletter is an initiative of Jesus Youth Australia (www.jesusyouth.org.au), produced by Jesus Youth Australia National Council. For any comments or suggestions contact us at officedesk@jesusyouth.org.au
/JesusYouthAustralia
/JYAustralia
October 2015
(217) Laudato Si POPE FRANCIS
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Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
A call to love!
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There is an old joke I know,-so old, in fact, that it may be unbeknownst to a newer charismatic generation and, therefore, recyclable. A young farmer, standing in his field, observes a peculiar cloud formation. The clouds form the letters G, P, and C, and he considers it a call from God to- Go Preach Christ! The farmer rushes to the deacons of his church and insists that he has been called to preach. Respectful of his ardour, they invite him to fill the pulpit. That Sunday, the sermon is long, tedious, and virtually incoherent. When it finally ends, the leaders sit in stunned silence. Finally, a wizened deacon mutters to the would-be preacher, “Seems to me the clouds were saying ‘Go plant corn.’” Even if there were truth to this joke, it wouldn’t be the first time there’s been confusion about what it means to be called into ministry. The concept of a call is one of the most profound of all biblical ideas. The Bible is riddled with stories about calls to men and women who, when summoned to service, went out and marked their generation in a profound way. Such calls had several commonalities. When St. Francis was asked why God called him, he said, “God picks the weakest, the smallest, the meanest of men on the face of the earth, and he uses them.”
In one way or another, they all originated out of the Godhead. God the Father called Abraham, Moses, Isaiah, and Amos (to name a few). Jesus called twelve men “to be with him,” and then sent them out to disciple the nations. The Holy Spirit called Saul and Barnabas and others to apostolic opportunity. As special and unique as you are, and as much as God loves you, he doesn’t need you to do anything for him. If he did, he could just send you a memo, right? What he wants, more than any accomplishment, is your heart. He wants to bring you into a relationship with him. To hear God’s calling, you must learn to recognize his voice, and there’s no shortcut for that. So my first and biggest request is this: Spend time in God’s Word and time in prayer. As I mentioned in the beginning of this newly elected National Council, we must identify our call to start this journey as one family in Christ and His Church. “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. Jn 13: 34 – 35”. As a Jesus Youth family, the first and primary call should be to ‘Love one another’. Identification of this call for Love must begin from our family, team members households and from our own parishes.
In Australia, our ministry’s main focus over the next years is to prepare the entire movement to identify the call of each Jesus Youth by implementation of the newly evolving formation plan. Every region is ready now and I thank the Lord for this precious gift of a new plan and all the leaders of each region for their hard work and co-operation in this formation plan. Jesus Youth across the world have started re-discovering their call during the Commitment day to live the call in “Prayer, Lifestyle and Formation”. As we pray in our Jesus Youth daily prayer let us surrender our self to the Lord, especially our thoughts and our will and gladly accept His sovereignty in our Life . May every Jesus Youth always seek His glory in our missionary journey. Let’s open ourselves completely to the work of the Holy Spirit in us and in the ministry which God has entrusted to each one of us to identify our call. With Love and Prayers, ANOOB JOSEPH JESUS YOUTH NATIONAL CO-ORDINATOR
from the coordinator
Being the Chaplain for JY Melbourne, I was awaiting an opportunity to participate in the Jesus Youth International Animator’s Training Program. I attended the same this year in July at the Camillian Centre, Thailand. At the outset I As the Chaplain for JY Melbourne, I was eagerly awaiting an opportunity to participate in the Jesus Youth International Animator’s Training Program. I attended the same this year in July at the Camillian Centre, Thailand. At the outset I should say it was a wonderful experience. It was a time of great information sharing, going through the reformation process and experiencing transformations. There were 18 animators consisting of 9 priests, 2 religious sisters, and 7 lay people. The group was quite charismatic especially Fr. Patrick and Fr. Polycarp from Uganda, Celine from Kenya, as well as the other priests and lay people who work in various parts of the world. It was a physically, psychologically and spiritually nourishing time for me. It was a refreshing change away from my normal routine. It was incredibly relaxing, and at times reminded me of my seminary days. I loved the games, walks and the group excursions. The program started with a 3-day retreat. This was a time of inner silence, reflection, and receiving the spirit of God. I also used this as a time to evaluate my own personal life. This was a time to look back on my faith journey and to attune myself to the promptings of the Holy Spirit while nourishing myself with the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation. The constant intercession, Jesus Youth prayer at noon and the melodious and spirit filled hymns, helped me to connect to my Creator. I am grateful to the enormous bundle of knowledge that was imparted at this training program. The wonderful insights on the role and mission of the Laity, role of the ecclesial movements, knowing Jesus Youth in depth, its statutes and charisms, practical aspects of youth animation, communication skills, attitudes of an animator and the integrity of an animator. Animated bible studies had clarified the numerous questions I had in my mind about Jesus Youth. I thank all the organisers of this training program without mentioning the names of anyone lest I fall into the sin of omission. Please pray for me so that I am able to work as a worthy instrument in the hands of God in His vineyard of JY.
news
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an update of Jesus Youth Australia events
Connect 2015, Melbourne
MELBOURNE Family & Kids Day – JY Victoria On 22nd August Families in Victoria had a fruitful time of Prayer and Fellowship at Box Hill. 28 Young families and 40 kids joined the fun filled day. The family streams focus was on enriching their Christian life to experience the true Joy and happiness in families. Thomas Isaac and Dr. Priya led the morning session, sharing their insights and experiences in their journey as a couple enriching and encouraging each other towards a life of holiness and Christian Joy. In the afternoon, we had a guest speaker from Melbourne Archdiocese team on Natural Fertility Services, Melbourne helping young families to learn more about natural ways of family planning as God designed it. Ms. Lesa Meese, the state educator and the national secretary for the Australian Council of Natural Family Planning was a great resource, who gave insights from experience as an educator and mother of 7 children. The informative session helped families to realise how its practice enriches the couple’s lives in real love, care and sacrifice. She also answered various questions from couples. The highlight of the day was the Dance competition for couples, which saw active participation of all couples in true sportsmanship. The day ended with a time of prayer and adoration. The Kids had a follow up VBS program lead by the Kids ministry under the leadership of Mrs. Sumi Vinu. The Kids had a fun filled day involving various activities, stories, dance and skits.
The active involvement of Kids encouraged every volunteer and the parents requested the team for regular follow up programs for kids. Every kid went back with some interesting lessons about their loving companion Jesus
CONNECT 2015 After months of prayers and preparation, the teens retreat Connect 2015 helped enrich and challenge the lives of 49 young teens to live a Christ centred lifestyle. The 4 day retreat was held from 2nd July to 4th July under the able guidance of Fr Bony MGL. Set in the serene ambience of Don Bosco retreat centre, Listerfield, the retreat saw the active participation of more than 30 full time and part time volunteers, with the Youth Team, Melbourne playing the key role. The mighty grace of our Lord almighty was experienced by the participants and the organizers abundantly.
ADELAIDE RECONSTITUTION The reconstitution ceremony was held in Adelaide on 25th July. With the help of the Holy Spirit a new team was appointed as follows:Rojo Antony - Animator, Fr. Alex Vickers - Chaplain , Prince Thomas Coordinator and eight other council members, Family team - Antony KP, Youth team - Anil Antony, Intercession team-Shine.
Family and Kids Day, Melbourne
PERTH
JY @ VERITAS Jesus Youth Perth showcased a message of prolife at the exhibition in the Perth Catholic Youth Movement 2015 event, Veritas on 11th July 2015 at the Santa Maria School. The event, Veritas is a first of its kind, 3 day youth gathering with various youth and charismatic groups in Perth was filled with music, messages, addresses from Bishop, exhibition stalls and a prelude to the ACYF in Adelaide happening in December 2015. The Perth Jesus youth pro-life stall was organized by the JY Youth group along with the key leaders. It exhibited the pro-life message with posters and videos with an opportunity to take a commitment to be pro-life or pray a rosary for an unborn child. The stall was open for the audience from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm. Many youth had an insight to the prevalence and incidence of abortions by attending the exhibition. It was an excellent opportunity to reach out to the youth of Perth from different groups and also provide awareness.
FR. PRAKASH CUTINHA Chaplain, JY MELBOURNE
JY @ Veritas Perth.
The reconstitution, Adelaide
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
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Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience.
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
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October
November
December
Universal: That human trafficking, the mod-
Universal: That we may be open to personal
Universal: That all may ex-
Evangelization: That pastors of the Church, with profound love for their flocks, may accompany them and enliven their hope.
Evangelization: That fami-
Evangelization: That with a missionary
spirit the Christian communities of Asia may announce the Gospel to those who are still awaiting it.
VBS, Brisbane
Living Biblically, Brisbane
SYDNEY I Thirst Teens and Children’s Retreat I Thirst Teens and Children’s Retreat was held from 28 June to 1st July. There were more than 100 participants and it was led by Fr.Bony , Sr.Rosey and Mayrose for the teens and Jy Families and youth team for the children.
Youth Expo The Archdiocese of Brisbane had organized a Youth and Vocational Expo on Sunday 08 August from 12 pm. Different youth groups and around 30 catholic communities from across Brisbane had participated in the event. We were asked to put up a stall at the program to spread awareness of who we are and the various activities we undertake every year within the diocese. Some of our Youth also performed a group dance at the expo.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Life in the Spirit
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Jy Sydney has started a Life in The Spirit Seminar for three streams namely Jy Families , Jy Teens and Jy Children . The seminar started last month and we meet every third Saturday 6pm to 8pm at All Saints Catholic Church, Liverpool
BRISBANE VBS VBS was conducted for kids between age 5 to age 12 (Year 1 to Year 8). The theme was “Weird Animals”. The VBS crew allowed kids to travel to stations in their small groups of five. Daily Bible Points were reinforced during every activity. .New worship songs and classic hymns were always a hit with the kids. They sang, danced and praised Jesus at VBS! Kids made and served snacks, and learned the importance and joy of putting others first at the diner station. The fun games played helped the kids to connect to the everyday bible verse. They learned to help others no matter without judgement. Eventually the Sky VBS program provided the kids with actionable ways to share God’s love with one another and also helped them to trust in God no matter what!!!!!
Grace 2015 A Four day residential retreat for JY families was organized by Jesus Youth Queensland with a purpose to give an opportunity to learn about our call as Christian families, our moral commitment, our mission as the domestic church and to embark on a journey towards unselfishness and holiness. ‘GRACE 2015’ was held at Camp Tamborine, 28 Keswick Road – North Tamborine 4272 QLD, from 5th June until 8th June 2015. Tomas Michael a well-known preacher among the youth and family around the world led this retreat. About 25 families participated in it.
JY Brisbane Council Reconstitution On 25th of July 2015, Jesus Youth in Brisbane elected a new team to lead them for the next two years. Along with Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy and Fr. Joseph Thottankara, we had the presence of Anoob Joseph (JY National Co-ordinator) and Jento Joy (National council member) to preside over the reconstitution process. A new team was elected following the process as outlined in the JY statutes.
The new team: Sebastian Joseph (Coordinator), Dijo Joy (Asst Co-ordinator), Vijoy Paul, Honey Johny, Sibi Joseph, Shibu Varkey, Nishan Mathew, Siju Mathew (Family Team Co-ordinator), Diana Sony (Youth Team Co-ordinator), Fr. Thomas Manimala (Spiritual Director), Reji Kottukapilly (Animator).
Living Biblically in a Secular World Seminar: Jesus Youth Brisbane was invited to host the final ‘Living Biblically’ seminar for 2015 on Wednesday 16 September in the Cathedral of St Stephen, Brisbane from 7.15pm-9pm. Living Biblically in a Secular World is a formation series. Drawing on his biblical scholarship, Archbishop Mark demonstrated the capacity of God’s word to speak into such issues and its power to transform our lives. This formation series has been well supported, each of the seven sessions to date have been filmed and the audio and video recordings placed on the Archdiocesan and Evangelisation Brisbane websites. “Jesus Youth is a gift that we received from the Indian church to Australia. Thank you Jesus Youth”, Archbishop Mark Coleridge remarked during the session to an audience of approximately hundred faithful. The tasks involved in hosting the seminar were hospitality, MC-ing, prayer and music, managing the Q&A segment, giving a reflection on the Archbishop’s talk etc. A double sided A5 prayer sheet with songs was prepared and distributed by Jesus Youth which helped the audience to participate in the seminar actively.
encounter and dialogue with all, even those whose convictions differ from our own.
New National Council, Family and Youth Teams
perience the mercy of God, who never tires of forgiving.
lies, especially those who suffer, may find in the birth of Jesus a sign of certain hope.
Election for a new National Council of Jesus Youth Australia was conducted at the end of a 3 Day National Growth Retreat in Melbourne (Jan 23 - 36), attended by over 100 participants from Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne, Sydney & Perth.
missioning Holy Mass & Ceremony of the New National Council. C C Joseph (Jesus Youth Int'l Council Coordinator) was with us during the reconstitution process and election. Fr Ken Barker MGL & Fritz Mascarenhas (ICPE Mission) were the other main speakers of the Retreat.
Bishop Eugene Hurley (Bishop of Darwin) was present during the com-
The new teams are:
Jesus Youth Australia National Council: Anoob Joseph (National Council Coordinator), Nojan Augustine (Asst. Coordinator), Jento Joy, Jetcy Joseph, Roby Joshua, Sabitha Shijo, Lijesh Thomas, Ajesh Abraham, Nishan Mathew, Deepak Kuriakose (Ex-officio), Manoj Vechoorettu (Ex-officio), Rejy Kottukapally (Animator), Thomas Issac (Animator), Fr Thomas Areekuzhy (Chaplain), Navin Mundackal, Rajesh T George (Ex-officio) and Siju Mathew (Ex-officio).
Jesus Youth Australia National Youth Team: Deepak Kuriakose( Coordinator), Blessy Thomas, Jerin Joseph, Dijo Joy, Babitha Geevarghese, Jethin Thottan, and Sidharth Jose (Ex-officio)
Jesus Youth Australia National Family Team: Manoj & Binnu Vechoorettu (Coordinator), Benny Poulose & Princy Benny, Joshy Scaria & Neethu Varghese, Sojin Sebastian & Priya Sojin, Shaji Joseph & Jeseentha Thomas, Lyju Eddassery & Roshin Lyju and Biju Kattickaran & Preetha (Ex-officio).
Youth Expo, Brisbane
I Thirst, Sydney
National Growth Retreat
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
ern form of slavery, may be eradicated.
Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions
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At the inaugural mass of his papal ministry on the feast of St. Joseph, Pope Francis addressed the faithful in the homily with these words, “In the Gospels, Saint Joseph appears as a strong and courageous man, a working man, yet in his heart we see great tenderness, which is not the virtue of the weak, but rather a sign of strength of spirit and a capacity for concern, for compassion, for genuine openness to others, for love. We must not be afraid of goodness, of tenderness!” Pope Francis has made Mercy one of the main components of the “New Evangelization”. In his address to participants in the plenary of the pontifical council for promoting the New Evangelization, Pope Francis declared, “We need Christians who make God’s mercy and tenderness for every creature visible to the men of our day”. He expressed same ethos in his first apostolic exhortation, “the joy of the Gospel”, “The church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel (EG 114). It is interesting to notice the order of actions that Pope points out here. He starts with welcoming, loving, forgiving and encouraging to lead a good life. This is where sometimes fervent Catholics struggle. We want to see everyone living the catholic way of life first, before embracing the cross of welcoming, uncon-
“I came into a deep faith in Christ after being convicted of my part played in His death on the cross. And I who should have been sent to the gallows, received life! This exchange has changed me permanently and placed the Cross of Christ at the centre of my life. I am able to show mercy and love only because I have received it in a measure I could never give. The highest points of my spiritual life are not great ministry experiences but the moments of being washed anew with His mercy. Raifiel Cyril (Litty), Gold Coast.
ditionally loving and unconditionally forgiving. The more we disengage from these actions of the cross, the world will find us hypocrites and self-righteous bullies. The world we live in now is desperately trying to cope with the immense amount of sufferings that are being experienced; the brutal terrorists attacks, the violently chaotic middle east, the plight of refugees, the heartbreaking life situations of children and women in war torn countries, the earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods and droughts etc.
“Every time I look at the cross, I see the love and mercy of a Mighty and Powerful God who created all that I see around me, yet humbly became like me to make me understand His true love for me and who calls me to be one with Him to enjoy true freedom in His grace. This year of mercy I want to deepen my relationship with the Almighty through sacraments, listening to and reading the Word, converting my prayers into action and by interceding for His divine mercy to fill the hearts of all around me with love, peace and joy.”
Though an agnostic, philosopher Emmanuel Kant’s postulation of God should be noted here. He says, if humanity should have absolute dignity, then it’s only on one condition that God exists and that he is a God of mercy and grace. Those who are forced to profess the “absence of God”, or “the eclipse of God” or “the dark night of faith”, are people who are puzzled in trying to understand God in the midst of all the sufferings. This is where Pope Francis is leading the entire church to capture the merciful God who is revealed in Jesus, “the spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (Lk 4:18).
Jethin Thottan, Adelaide
The more we disengage from these actions of the cross, the world will find us hypocrites and self-righteous bullies.
UPCOMING REGIONAL EVENTS
New JY Australia National Office: It was a long cherished dream of Jesus Youth Australia to have a national office to undertake all the administrative and day to day duties of mission, to support the initiatives of our movement and to keep documents and records centrally. After completing 10 years in Australia and addressing to this need we now have a National Office functional now. The office was blessed by Rev Fr. Prakash Cutinha on Saturday, 1st August 2015. The working hours are from 9:00 – 17:00 hrs, Mon to Wed. Binu Joseph has been appointed as the Administration Officer. Very happy to report that we received generous help and guidance from the Melbourne Archdiocese New JY office details as follow: Jesus Youth Australia National Office 140 Westbourne Grove Northcote VIC 3070 Tel: 0405 786 587 Email: officedesk@jesusyouth.org.au
Melbourne JY Music Night
19th December 2015 St. Peter’s Church hall , Clayton
Perth “I-Follow 2015”
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Marriage
The word ‘marriage’ isn’t simply a label that can be attached and transferred to different types of relationships as the fashion of the day dictates. It has an intrinsic or natural meaning prior to anything we may invent or the state may legislate. It reflects God’s plan for humanity, our personal growth and that of our children and society. To say that other friendships are not marriages is not to demean those other friendships or the individuals concerned, but merely to recognise that...
Youth Growth retreat at Epiphany Retreat Centre, Rossmoyne. 16-19 October 2015
...marriage is the covenant of a man and a woman to live as husband and wife, exclusively and for life, and open to the procreation of children.
“The Stream”
Family retreat at Epiphany Retreat Centre, Rossmoyne. 6-8 October 2015
Sydney Family Retreat, 22,23 &24th January 2016 . Resource persons: Br. Fritz and Diana
...taken from “Don’t Mess with Marriage” : A Pastoral Letter from the Catholic Bishops of Australia to all Australians on the ‘Same-sex Marriage’ Debate. To read the full letter go to -
”
https://www.sydneycatholic.org/pdf/ DMM-booklet_web.pdf. Further information and resources about the truth and meaning of marriage can also be found in • •
http://www.lifemarriagefamily. org.au http://www.cam.org.au/lifemarriagefamily/
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
COVER STORY CONTINUED...
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Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
The fulltimers project is one of the most important initiatives of the Jesus Youth movement. In the year 1991 a Jesus Youth inspired by an inner calling of the Holy Spirit to commit himself for a life of mission set out on this journey under the prayerful guidance of few elders and leaders. Further to this evolved the clear call for a year long fulltime commitment by youngsters for the kingdom. A training plan with a vision to enable youngsters for this commitment took shape.
Over the years nearly 1500 youngsters have undergone this training. We remember all the fulltimers who took a one-year commitment and all animators and elders who form the backbone of this project with a grateful heart. The 25 years of ‘Fulltimership’ calls for
all of us to celebrate. The silver jubilee year in 2016 calls us all to come together with a thankful heart, recommitting the dreams we nurtured way back when we underwent the training for one year and the dream of taking the Good News to the ends of the earth. This jubilee celebration will be a great opportunity for all the forerunners, their family members and all leaders and elders who have been associated with this project to gather once again and rejuvenate their spirits. As a part of this coming together, we will have an inauguration of the jubilee celebration in different regions and countries on the ‘Day of Pentecost in 2016’. And there will also be a mega gathering from 28th to 31st Dec 2016 in Kerala.
“The entry to one’s heart is through his or her feet. Jesus welcomed the disciples, he loved them, and he forgave them and encouraged them to a good life. He did not argue with them or convince them with philosophical explanations, rather he fell to their feet and won their heart.”
Jesus presents a God who is rich in Mercy (Eph 2:4), portrayed in his stories of the Prodigal Son, lost sheep, lost coin and ultimately the revelation of a Merciful God occurs when he dies on the cross forgiving everyone unconditionally. At the foot washing scene in the Gospel of John, we encounter Jesus who,filled with the Knowledge of God’s love for him, humbles himself to wash the feet of his disciples. Jesus is entering the hearts of the disciples through their feet. The entry to one’s heart is through his or her feet. Jesus welcomed the disciples, he loved them, and he forgave them and encouraged them to a good life. He did not argue with them or convince them with philosophical explanations, rather he fell to their feet and won their heart.
God’s mercy is another manifestation of His abundant love towards us. It comes with a lot of promises. God pours out his mercy to all who turn to Him with a sincere heart. God’s mercy has been a spiritual nourishment in my life. During this year of Mercy, I am learning more about divine mercy and the life of saints. Also reciting the Divine Mercy chaplet meditating on the sufferings of Christ has made a great difference in my life. Jetcy, Perth
St. Paul rightly said, he didn’t manifest the wisdom of the world in his preaching, but only the logic of the cross. And the logic of the cross is this that God loved the world and he gave his only son that everyone should be saved. In the Gospel of Luke ch. 7 we meet Jesus, who at a party allows a sinful woman to wash and anoint his feet. The host of the party questions Jesus that if he is a prophet he should have known who and what sort of person was touching his feet. For the Pharisee, it is her actions that defines her, but for Jesus “who she is” defines her. She is first and foremost a child of God and whatever she lost can be forgiven and restored. This is mercy. God washes our feet from all the stains that darken our dignity and restores us to the original dignity as his children. This is done in a meal context and we know in the catholic context the meal is the Eucharist. In other words, God shows his mercy by giving himself to us, pouring out his blood and sharing his body. The more we live a Eucharistic life, the better the world will witness a merciful God and humanity will encounter a God who suffers with them and will find hope of resurrection with him in that intimacy. Pope Francis, in his bull of indiction of the extraordinary Jubilee of mercy, instructed that every cathedral in the world will have a “holy door of mercy”, representing reconciliation, forgiveness and acceptance.
Justice and Mercy reflects God’s Love, but they are at two different levels. Justice is giving a person what he deserves whereas Mercy is on the other extreme, i.e. giving a person even if he does not deserve. The Year of Mercy is an invitation to be witnesses of this extra mile. As a family we find it challenging and thrilling to be witnesses to God’s special Love.
“This year will be an opportunity for me to practice love without measure and build a heart to heart relationship with people who come across in my daily life. By following the example of Mother Teresa, we should walk towards sainthood by daily acts of mercy and be a witness to our merciful father.” Deepak Kuriakose, Perth
He has also encouraged us to take up both corporal (feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, ransom captives, and bury the dead) and spiritual (instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, comfort the sorrowful, admonish the sinners, gladly forgive injuries, bear wrongs patiently and pray for the living and the dead) works of mercy. Let us capture hearts through the washing of the feet. However, in order to do that we need to experience the mercy of God first for ourselves. St. Augustine exclaims, “praise be to Thee, glory to Thee, O fountain of mercies. I became more wretched and thou more close to me. Let him prise you not who does not realize your mercies, which my soul’s depths confess to you”. In fact, we must be silent about God if we do not know how to speak anew the message of God’s mercy to the people who are in so much physical and spiritual distress But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 2 Cor 2:14. Fr Bony Abraham MGL (Chaplain, Jesus Youth Australia National Youth Team)
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Fulltimership Jubilee 2016
In 1992, 27 young graduates from Kerala came forward with an intense desire to change the lives of youth for Jesus. After training they took their commitment as the ‘first batch of full-timers’. This year the 23rd batch is undergoing training. Our Hindi trainings started in 2003.
Jomon , Sydney
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Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
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For the people to grow in faith and deepen themselves in the Word. The intentions of the Holy Father. For world peace and for the persecuted Christians all over the world. For all young people in Australia and the intentions of the Jesus youth movement. For the Church in Australia, Bishops, Priests and all the parishes. For Australian Catholic Youth festival -2015. For families all around the world & religious consecrated life.
“Every Holy Hour we make so pleases the Heart of Jesus that it is recorded in Heaven and retold for all eternity” (Mother Teresa). The Hours of Grace proved to be a personal invitation by the Lord to each one of us, to have an intimate encounter and a loving embrace through this Heavenly Sacrament. Hours of Grace was inaugurated at St. Peter Chanel Church, Canberra by the Most Reverend Bosco Puthoor, Bishop of Syro-Malabar Diocese in Australia on the Ash Monday. Numerous people spent time with the Lord, day and night and felt His Grace and Mercy flow into their lives.
Round-the-clock Eucharistic Adoration across 9 Cities in Australia
Hours of Grace
2016
February 10th - May 15th 2016 (Ash Wednesday till Pentecost Day)
The Perpetual adoration continued round the clock, in Melbourne at St. Agatha’s Church (Cranbourne), St. Peters Church ( Clayton), St. Francis of Assisi (Epping) and St. Josephs’ Church (Northcote) and were also able to reach-out to St. Francis Xavier Church (Frankston) . It was quiet touching to see the catholic students from schools spending time before the Blessed Sacrament. Many people witnessed the power of the Lord through the Blessed Sacrament. The Hours of Grace in Darwin started at St Paul’s Church, (Nightcliff). Jesus Youth in Darwin received a miraculous opportunity to reachout to the Aboriginal community in Bathurst. This also paved way to start off missionary work among the aboriginal community in Darwin.
The Hours of Grace in Adelaide was held at Our Lady of Rosary Church (Prospect), St. Bernadette Church (St. Mary’s), St Augustine Church (Salisbury) and St. Joseph’s Church (Kensington). The Faithful in Adelaide felt strong blessings and grace pour into their lives and came forward to share their testimonies. The Hours of Grace in Perth was started at St. Jeromes Church (Spearwood), Schoenstatt Shrine (Armadale), Our Lady of Lourdes Church (Rockingham), St. Jude Church (Lynwood), St. Joseph s Church (Bassendean), Queen of Apostles Church (Riverton), Yanchep catholic Church, Good shepherd Church (Kelmscott), St. Mary’s cathedral, (Perth Street.), Aloysius Church (Shenton Park), Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Wilson), Holy Family Church (Maddington). The Hours of Grace concluded with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Varghese Parackel VC at Holy Family Church (Maddington). The Archdiocese and the local parishioners who attended the adoration described it as a beautiful experience and indeed a special time with the Lord. The Hours of Grace in Sydney was held at St Christopher’s Church (Holsworthy). Sydney witnessed the participation of many families. Most of the families felt spiritually nourished and strengthened after spending the time in adoration. The Hours of Grace concluded with Holy Mass. “Perpetual Adoration extends its influence far beyond the individual adorers, touching their homes and families and reaching out to the parish community and beyond”. (Pope Paul VI). The Hours of Grace in Alice Spring was held at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, were devotees spend time in silence with Lord and directly experienced the comforting, consoling rays of His healing love and heart. The Hours of Grace in Brisbane was held at St Joseph’s Church (Bracken Ridge), Queensland. The faithful spent time before the Blessed Sacrament, witnessing the Lord’s presence and were very excited to reach out to others in the local community. The Hours of Grace concluded officially on 23rd May’15, with Pentecost day Vigil Mass at St. Joseph Church, (Northcote) Melbourne. “You can come to Me (in Eucharistic adoration) at any moment, at any time; I want to speak to you and I desire to grant you graces” (Jesus to St. Faustina)
Pedalling for the less fortunate “And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. “Matthew 25: 40 This new initiative by Jesus Youth Melbourne was focussed on raising fund for the less fortunate and at the same time practising one of the Six pillars of the Jesus Youth movementOptions for the poor/ Service. The money raised would go to Rehna, a 16 year old girl in India, diagnosed with cancer. The 200 Kilometres (km) bike ride took off early hours of dawn on 2nd May’15 from St Francis Xavier Church (Frankston) to St Mary’s Church (Phillip Island). Every 5 km pedalled was worth $25 donation. Eight youth from
Testimony of a cyclist When we signed up for this fundraiser we had no idea what we were up against. A 200Km bike ride looks great on a
resume or even a newspaper! It was a challenge for all of us as we lacked fitness, experience and skills. It was the team spirit and strong prayer support that helped us complete the ride. We would like to thank the support crew once again. With each
ThankYou Robert Robert Roy is 2014 fulltimership batch participant and he served 10 months in Australia after his training. Robert returned back to UK on May 11th after his commitment in Australia. During this 10 months he had travelled various cities, met various people and involved in various activities of each region
and inspired the young people across Australia. "I would like to thank Jesus Youth UK and Jesus Youth Australia for giving me such an amazing opportunity to experience the ministry in different ways and also for helping me to concentrate more on my spiritual growth." -Robert Roy
rotation of the pedal we thought about the girl. At every stop we took, we spent time in prayer for Rehna, for her to overcome the illness and our own physical strength to complete this challenge. We had strong positive hope and kept motivating each
Jesus Youth Melbourne stepped forward to take up this audacious act. The team of cyclist included Robert Roy (Jesus Youth International fulltimer), Shareen Ashok, Vyshak Mangalath, Alan Antony Pullicodu, Achu Sebastian, Ashly Shaji, David John and Joel Joseph. After every 10 Km, a decade of rosary was offered for Rehna. The cyclist faced physical challenges such as dehydration, sprain etc. but kept gallantly pedalling for their little sister, Rehna. The cyclists were supported by dedicated Soigneurs, First aid team and Intercession team from the Jesus Youth family. Together they raised $3800 which was donated for Rehna’s Bone Marrow Transplant. other all through. Once again I thank all for the support, donations and prayers. Lastly we as humans have tried, but it is God who decides. Please pray for the departed soul of Rehna. -Joel Joseph (Melbourne) JYPLF cyclist
Prayers for Edwin’s mission Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!" [1 Chronicles 16:24] Edwin Siby is the current batch International Fulltimer and has committed to serve the Lord and His flock in Bangalore, India for the next 18 months. He is pursuing a PG degree in
Audiology from Brisbane University and has taken a break after competing his first year to undergo a one month Intl fulltimership Training in Bangkok and later serve in India which is his commitment place for Mission. Edwin, as we know him is a man of prayers and is very passionate about building the Lords kingdom which led him to
go for the International Fulltimership Training. Edwin had moved to Australia in 2004 from Kerala, India and was accompanied by both his parents and sister, Edwina who is also an active member of Jesus Youth Australia. We pray for Edwin and his mission in India that he may bear much fruit, as commanded by our Lord.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus Youth Australia conducted ‘Hours of Grace 2015’(24x7 Eucharist Adoration) over a period of 3 months covering 23 parishes across 8 cities around Australia, from 16th February (Ash Monday) to 24th May (Pentecost Day). It was a great privilege and blessing for the movement to be able to run the ‘Hours of Grace’ for the 4th consecutive year. It brought local communities & parishioners under one roof to pray together for the following intentions.
11
When should a person pray? From the earliest times Christians have prayed at least in the morning, at meals, and in the evening. Someone who does not pray regularly will soon not pray at all. [2697-2698, 2720].
him. So it is with God, too. Anyone who truly seeks him will keep sending him signals of his longing for his company and friendship. Get up in the morning and give the day to God, asking for his BLESSING and to “be there” in all your meetings and needs. Thank him, especially at mealtimes. At the end of the day, place everything into his hands, ask him for forgiveness, and pray for peace for yourself and others. A great day—full of signs of life that reach God.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Anyone who loves another person and all day long never gives that person a sign of his love does not really love
10
movie review
•
“Finding Saint Anthony: A Story of Love and Light”: Screening Released in 2013, this inspiring documentary explores the life of the thirteenth century Saint Anthony of Padua.
•
“The Mighty Macs”: Starring Carla Gugino and David Boreanaz and based on the true 1970s story, Cathy Rush becomes the head basketball coach at Immaculata College, a small, all-girls Catholic college. Against all odds, Coach Cathy steers her girls to their first NCAA championship.
•
Yes, there is vocal prayer, meditation, and contemplative prayer. All three ways of prayer presuppose recollecting one’s mind and heart. [2699, 2721]
Movies at the World Meeting of Families Film Festival
Instead of the review of one movie, how about if we tell you the list of movies that was played at the Film Festival at the World Meeting of Families Philadelphia 2015.? Check them out.!
•
Are there various ways to pray?
“Rudy”: Starring Sean Astin, Jon Favreau and Ned Beatty, Rudy was always told that he was too small to play college football. But he is determined to overcome the odds to fulfill his dream of playing football at Notre Dame University.
Scofield, Wendy Hiller and Robert Shaw, this film tells the story of Thomas More, who stood up to King Henry VIII when the king rejected the Roman Catholic Church to obtain a divorce and remarriage. •
•
•
•
“Diary of a City Priest”: Starring David Morse, “Diary of a City Priest” follows Father John McNamee, a Catholic priest, as he accepts a position at a Philadelphia inner-city church.
•
“Urban Trinity” : This historical documentary traces the narrative of the many immigrant groups who came to Philadelphia and whose common bond was their Catholicism. The story arcs from the earliest times through the more modern stresses of a changing Philadelphia.
•
“A Man For All Seasons”: Starring Paul
•
“The Way”: Starring Martin Sheen, this film follows a father as he heads overseas to recover the body of his estranged son who died while traveling the “El camino de Santiago,” who then decides to take the pilgrimage himself. “Wide Awake”: Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, and starring Joseph Cross, Rosie O’Donnell and Dana Delany, this film tells the story of a 10-year-old boy who goes on a search for God after his grandfather dies. “The Wizard of Oz”: A fan-favorite starring Judy Garland, this film tells the story of Dorothy Gale, who is swept away to a magical land in a tornado and embarks on a quest to see the Wizard who can help her return home. “The Francis Effect”: From the moment Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he won the hearts of the people. The Francis Effect takes a critical and in-depth look at how an ancient institution is rapidly changing under the leadership and vision of Pope Francis. “Invincible”: Starring Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear and Elizabeth Banks, this film is based on the story of Vince Papale, a 30- year-old bartender from South Philadelphia who overcame long odds to play for the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles in 1976.
About World Meeting of Families Beginning with 1994, The Year of the Family, the Pontifical Council for the Family has been responsible for organizing the World Meetings of Families in Rome (1994); Rio de Janeiro (1997); Rome (2000); Manila (2003); Valencia (2006); Mexico City (2009); Milan (2012); and now, Philadelphia (2015). Since its inception by Saint John Paul II, the World Meeting of Families has sought to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe.
Message by Archbishop Denis Hart. “In 2014 the Hours of Grace prayer initiative was launched across many dioceses in Australia. The silent and reflective prayer of Eucharistic Adoration allowed thousands of people to listen, reflect and to enter more fully into the presence of God. Once again I am heartened that Jesus Youth Australia will continue Hours of Grace in 2015. I encourage you to find the time to join with one another in prayerful unity. Amidst the busyness of life, may you find time to enter that sacred silence where the Living Word will speak, heal, transform and renew. ”
Picture of HOURS OF GRACE BATHURST ISLAND - An initiative of Jesus Youth Darwin, to reach out to the remote communities. Dates: May 9th Saturday 7am - May 9th Saturday 7pm 2015. The monstrance used was made in 1955 by one of the schools in Victoria. This has been unused for a long time.
What is the Year of Mercy? Pope Francis says, "We need constantly to contemplate the mystery of mercy. It is a wellspring of joy, serenity, and peace. Our salvation depends on it. At times we are called to gaze even more attentively on mercy so that we may become a more effective sign of the Father’s action in our lives. For this reason I have proclaimed an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy as a special time for the Church, a time when the witness of believers might grow stronger and more effective. The motto for the year, Merciful like the Father, serves as an invitation to follow the merciful example of God who asks us not to judge or condemn but to offer love and forgiveness instead.
The Jubilee of Mercy will begin when Pope Francis opens the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica on 8 December 2015 (the 50th anniversary of the closing of the Second Vatican Council) and concludes when he closes that same door on 20 November 2016.
Useful Links More information on the Pope’s message for the Year of Mercy is available from these websites: • •
Jubilee Year of Mercy (official website): www.iubilaeummisericordiae.va/ www.cam.org.au/evangelisation/Resources/Year-ofMercy
Also tune - in to jesusyouth.org. au and our social media feeds for the Jesus Youth Australia national plans for Year of Mercy.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Explore
499 500
7
5 1 0 2 s n o i Miss
8
Being on a mission trip in a foreign land is quite challenging and requires responding boldly to God’s call by the individual. The three Jesus youth missionaries Sibi Joseph (Brisbane), Kandida Lynn Franklin (Melbourne) and Jobin Mathew (Melbourne) boldly said YES to God’s call to a mission on Nauru Islands from 5th July to 10th July’ 15. After prayerful preparations and interaction with the 30 retreatants on the first day, the missionaries were able to have a better understanding of the culture and the lifestyle of the youth in Nauru. Each day of the retreat started with Praise and worship which enabled the retreatants to get closer to their creator and helped to set a spiritual atmosphere for the day. Various sessions on Jesus --my saviour, Mary and Saints, Sacraments, Sin, Personal journey with God and Theology of the Body gave them a deeper understanding of their faith and their call to serve the Lord. The adorations at the close of the day helped them to surrender their lives completely at His feet and to start anew. Most of them were able to open up and share their life struggles with the team. There were various group activities and discussions based on living the catholic faith in today’s world and at the same time challenged them to defend their faith, despite the struggles they might come across.
PNG mission 2015 was a wonderful experience for the mission team and also the participants. The power of the Holy Spirit was experienced throughout the mission and was fuelled by the prayers of wonderful intercessors.
“
5 1 Nauru 20 2015 th th July 5 - 10 ,
Towards the last few days of the retreat the focus was on Confession, Holy Spirit and Inner healing, to help them spiritually prepare for the ‘Infilling of the Holy Spirit and to break various bondages in their lives. They were also encouraged to make an open hearted confession prior to Inner Healing. Many of them were touched by the Lord and shared their testimonies joyfully with the group. The retreat concluded with Holy Mass and Thanksgiving lunch. The mission not only made changes in the life of the retreatants but also in the life of each missionary as they saw the hand of God leading them through it all.
”
“I thank God for giving me this wonderful opportunity for proclaiming His Word and making me an instrument to bring youth closer to Him. Saying ‘Yes’ to the mission was challenging because of few personal issues in my life. But God took care of everything. Another challenge was the culture in an unknown land but the power of the Holy Spirit took away all the fears and apprehensions.” Special thanks to Jesus Youth Australia for their powerful intercession throughout the retreat.”
Jobin Matthew, Nauru missionary 2015.
The road less travelled, is with no doubts challenging, but it is for sure rewarding
Missions 2016
PNG Missions 2015 1st - 14th January 2015
Overall the mission to PNG was full of adventures and excitement, it brought the team closer to God and enabled them to look for his hand in everything. The way that some of the Youth in Mendi let go of everything and surrendered completely into God’s grace proved to be an eye opener. The Holy Spirit had clearly hand-picked the mission team and was also present with them throughout the trip.
Tony Jojo, Brisbane Are you interested in joining our team to the next mission?. Harvest is plenty, but labourers are few.
CAN YOU TREAD THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED?
Programs were held at 4 major locations namely Tawanda, Porondakka, Komo and Mendi. The work of the Holy Spirit was very evident in all these remote areas. The team consisting of Nojan, Alvin, Tony, Regi, Anoob and Sarath travelled to Tawanda and Porodakka together while they split into two teams for Komo and Mendi.
Contact us today on officedesk@jesusyouth.org.au for more information. It is a life time opportunity that will challenge and change you for better. Next PNG Mission is 4-22 Jan 2016
“I would like to say that the missionaries in PNG are working 200% harder than what we imagine and we should constantly be praying for them and all the other missionaries in the world. We must also make sure that our JY mission to PNG continues to grow in strength and that we continue to go out there and spread the word of God because “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” And we should do all that is in our power to increase the number of workers.”
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” - John 20: 21
9
5 1 0 2 s n o i Miss
8
Being on a mission trip in a foreign land is quite challenging and requires responding boldly to God’s call by the individual. The three Jesus youth missionaries Sibi Joseph (Brisbane), Kandida Lynn Franklin (Melbourne) and Jobin Mathew (Melbourne) boldly said YES to God’s call to a mission on Nauru Islands from 5th July to 10th July’ 15. After prayerful preparations and interaction with the 30 retreatants on the first day, the missionaries were able to have a better understanding of the culture and the lifestyle of the youth in Nauru. Each day of the retreat started with Praise and worship which enabled the retreatants to get closer to their creator and helped to set a spiritual atmosphere for the day. Various sessions on Jesus --my saviour, Mary and Saints, Sacraments, Sin, Personal journey with God and Theology of the Body gave them a deeper understanding of their faith and their call to serve the Lord. The adorations at the close of the day helped them to surrender their lives completely at His feet and to start anew. Most of them were able to open up and share their life struggles with the team. There were various group activities and discussions based on living the catholic faith in today’s world and at the same time challenged them to defend their faith, despite the struggles they might come across.
PNG mission 2015 was a wonderful experience for the mission team and also the participants. The power of the Holy Spirit was experienced throughout the mission and was fuelled by the prayers of wonderful intercessors.
“
5 1 Nauru 20 2015 th th July 5 - 10 ,
Towards the last few days of the retreat the focus was on Confession, Holy Spirit and Inner healing, to help them spiritually prepare for the ‘Infilling of the Holy Spirit and to break various bondages in their lives. They were also encouraged to make an open hearted confession prior to Inner Healing. Many of them were touched by the Lord and shared their testimonies joyfully with the group. The retreat concluded with Holy Mass and Thanksgiving lunch. The mission not only made changes in the life of the retreatants but also in the life of each missionary as they saw the hand of God leading them through it all.
”
“I thank God for giving me this wonderful opportunity for proclaiming His Word and making me an instrument to bring youth closer to Him. Saying ‘Yes’ to the mission was challenging because of few personal issues in my life. But God took care of everything. Another challenge was the culture in an unknown land but the power of the Holy Spirit took away all the fears and apprehensions.” Special thanks to Jesus Youth Australia for their powerful intercession throughout the retreat.”
Jobin Matthew, Nauru missionary 2015.
The road less travelled, is with no doubts challenging, but it is for sure rewarding
Missions 2016
PNG Missions 2015 1st - 14th January 2015
Overall the mission to PNG was full of adventures and excitement, it brought the team closer to God and enabled them to look for his hand in everything. The way that some of the Youth in Mendi let go of everything and surrendered completely into God’s grace proved to be an eye opener. The Holy Spirit had clearly hand-picked the mission team and was also present with them throughout the trip.
Tony Jojo, Brisbane Are you interested in joining our team to the next mission?. Harvest is plenty, but labourers are few.
CAN YOU TREAD THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED?
Programs were held at 4 major locations namely Tawanda, Porondakka, Komo and Mendi. The work of the Holy Spirit was very evident in all these remote areas. The team consisting of Nojan, Alvin, Tony, Regi, Anoob and Sarath travelled to Tawanda and Porodakka together while they split into two teams for Komo and Mendi.
Contact us today on officedesk@jesusyouth.org.au for more information. It is a life time opportunity that will challenge and change you for better. Next PNG Mission is 4-22 Jan 2016
“I would like to say that the missionaries in PNG are working 200% harder than what we imagine and we should constantly be praying for them and all the other missionaries in the world. We must also make sure that our JY mission to PNG continues to grow in strength and that we continue to go out there and spread the word of God because “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” And we should do all that is in our power to increase the number of workers.”
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” - John 20: 21
9
When should a person pray? From the earliest times Christians have prayed at least in the morning, at meals, and in the evening. Someone who does not pray regularly will soon not pray at all. [2697-2698, 2720].
him. So it is with God, too. Anyone who truly seeks him will keep sending him signals of his longing for his company and friendship. Get up in the morning and give the day to God, asking for his BLESSING and to “be there” in all your meetings and needs. Thank him, especially at mealtimes. At the end of the day, place everything into his hands, ask him for forgiveness, and pray for peace for yourself and others. A great day—full of signs of life that reach God.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Anyone who loves another person and all day long never gives that person a sign of his love does not really love
10
movie review
•
“Finding Saint Anthony: A Story of Love and Light”: Screening Released in 2013, this inspiring documentary explores the life of the thirteenth century Saint Anthony of Padua.
•
“The Mighty Macs”: Starring Carla Gugino and David Boreanaz and based on the true 1970s story, Cathy Rush becomes the head basketball coach at Immaculata College, a small, all-girls Catholic college. Against all odds, Coach Cathy steers her girls to their first NCAA championship.
•
Yes, there is vocal prayer, meditation, and contemplative prayer. All three ways of prayer presuppose recollecting one’s mind and heart. [2699, 2721]
Movies at the World Meeting of Families Film Festival
Instead of the review of one movie, how about if we tell you the list of movies that was played at the Film Festival at the World Meeting of Families Philadelphia 2015.? Check them out.!
•
Are there various ways to pray?
“Rudy”: Starring Sean Astin, Jon Favreau and Ned Beatty, Rudy was always told that he was too small to play college football. But he is determined to overcome the odds to fulfill his dream of playing football at Notre Dame University.
Scofield, Wendy Hiller and Robert Shaw, this film tells the story of Thomas More, who stood up to King Henry VIII when the king rejected the Roman Catholic Church to obtain a divorce and remarriage. •
•
•
•
“Diary of a City Priest”: Starring David Morse, “Diary of a City Priest” follows Father John McNamee, a Catholic priest, as he accepts a position at a Philadelphia inner-city church.
•
“Urban Trinity” : This historical documentary traces the narrative of the many immigrant groups who came to Philadelphia and whose common bond was their Catholicism. The story arcs from the earliest times through the more modern stresses of a changing Philadelphia.
•
“A Man For All Seasons”: Starring Paul
•
“The Way”: Starring Martin Sheen, this film follows a father as he heads overseas to recover the body of his estranged son who died while traveling the “El camino de Santiago,” who then decides to take the pilgrimage himself. “Wide Awake”: Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, and starring Joseph Cross, Rosie O’Donnell and Dana Delany, this film tells the story of a 10-year-old boy who goes on a search for God after his grandfather dies. “The Wizard of Oz”: A fan-favorite starring Judy Garland, this film tells the story of Dorothy Gale, who is swept away to a magical land in a tornado and embarks on a quest to see the Wizard who can help her return home. “The Francis Effect”: From the moment Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he won the hearts of the people. The Francis Effect takes a critical and in-depth look at how an ancient institution is rapidly changing under the leadership and vision of Pope Francis. “Invincible”: Starring Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear and Elizabeth Banks, this film is based on the story of Vince Papale, a 30- year-old bartender from South Philadelphia who overcame long odds to play for the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles in 1976.
About World Meeting of Families Beginning with 1994, The Year of the Family, the Pontifical Council for the Family has been responsible for organizing the World Meetings of Families in Rome (1994); Rio de Janeiro (1997); Rome (2000); Manila (2003); Valencia (2006); Mexico City (2009); Milan (2012); and now, Philadelphia (2015). Since its inception by Saint John Paul II, the World Meeting of Families has sought to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe.
Message by Archbishop Denis Hart. “In 2014 the Hours of Grace prayer initiative was launched across many dioceses in Australia. The silent and reflective prayer of Eucharistic Adoration allowed thousands of people to listen, reflect and to enter more fully into the presence of God. Once again I am heartened that Jesus Youth Australia will continue Hours of Grace in 2015. I encourage you to find the time to join with one another in prayerful unity. Amidst the busyness of life, may you find time to enter that sacred silence where the Living Word will speak, heal, transform and renew. ”
Picture of HOURS OF GRACE BATHURST ISLAND - An initiative of Jesus Youth Darwin, to reach out to the remote communities. Dates: May 9th Saturday 7am - May 9th Saturday 7pm 2015. The monstrance used was made in 1955 by one of the schools in Victoria. This has been unused for a long time.
What is the Year of Mercy? Pope Francis says, "We need constantly to contemplate the mystery of mercy. It is a wellspring of joy, serenity, and peace. Our salvation depends on it. At times we are called to gaze even more attentively on mercy so that we may become a more effective sign of the Father’s action in our lives. For this reason I have proclaimed an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy as a special time for the Church, a time when the witness of believers might grow stronger and more effective. The motto for the year, Merciful like the Father, serves as an invitation to follow the merciful example of God who asks us not to judge or condemn but to offer love and forgiveness instead.
The Jubilee of Mercy will begin when Pope Francis opens the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica on 8 December 2015 (the 50th anniversary of the closing of the Second Vatican Council) and concludes when he closes that same door on 20 November 2016.
Useful Links More information on the Pope’s message for the Year of Mercy is available from these websites: • •
Jubilee Year of Mercy (official website): www.iubilaeummisericordiae.va/ www.cam.org.au/evangelisation/Resources/Year-ofMercy
Also tune - in to jesusyouth.org. au and our social media feeds for the Jesus Youth Australia national plans for Year of Mercy.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Explore
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
7.
6
For the people to grow in faith and deepen themselves in the Word. The intentions of the Holy Father. For world peace and for the persecuted Christians all over the world. For all young people in Australia and the intentions of the Jesus youth movement. For the Church in Australia, Bishops, Priests and all the parishes. For Australian Catholic Youth festival -2015. For families all around the world & religious consecrated life.
“Every Holy Hour we make so pleases the Heart of Jesus that it is recorded in Heaven and retold for all eternity” (Mother Teresa). The Hours of Grace proved to be a personal invitation by the Lord to each one of us, to have an intimate encounter and a loving embrace through this Heavenly Sacrament. Hours of Grace was inaugurated at St. Peter Chanel Church, Canberra by the Most Reverend Bosco Puthoor, Bishop of Syro-Malabar Diocese in Australia on the Ash Monday. Numerous people spent time with the Lord, day and night and felt His Grace and Mercy flow into their lives.
Round-the-clock Eucharistic Adoration across 9 Cities in Australia
Hours of Grace
2016
February 10th - May 15th 2016 (Ash Wednesday till Pentecost Day)
The Perpetual adoration continued round the clock, in Melbourne at St. Agatha’s Church (Cranbourne), St. Peters Church ( Clayton), St. Francis of Assisi (Epping) and St. Josephs’ Church (Northcote) and were also able to reach-out to St. Francis Xavier Church (Frankston) . It was quiet touching to see the catholic students from schools spending time before the Blessed Sacrament. Many people witnessed the power of the Lord through the Blessed Sacrament. The Hours of Grace in Darwin started at St Paul’s Church, (Nightcliff). Jesus Youth in Darwin received a miraculous opportunity to reachout to the Aboriginal community in Bathurst. This also paved way to start off missionary work among the aboriginal community in Darwin.
The Hours of Grace in Adelaide was held at Our Lady of Rosary Church (Prospect), St. Bernadette Church (St. Mary’s), St Augustine Church (Salisbury) and St. Joseph’s Church (Kensington). The Faithful in Adelaide felt strong blessings and grace pour into their lives and came forward to share their testimonies. The Hours of Grace in Perth was started at St. Jeromes Church (Spearwood), Schoenstatt Shrine (Armadale), Our Lady of Lourdes Church (Rockingham), St. Jude Church (Lynwood), St. Joseph s Church (Bassendean), Queen of Apostles Church (Riverton), Yanchep catholic Church, Good shepherd Church (Kelmscott), St. Mary’s cathedral, (Perth Street.), Aloysius Church (Shenton Park), Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Wilson), Holy Family Church (Maddington). The Hours of Grace concluded with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Varghese Parackel VC at Holy Family Church (Maddington). The Archdiocese and the local parishioners who attended the adoration described it as a beautiful experience and indeed a special time with the Lord. The Hours of Grace in Sydney was held at St Christopher’s Church (Holsworthy). Sydney witnessed the participation of many families. Most of the families felt spiritually nourished and strengthened after spending the time in adoration. The Hours of Grace concluded with Holy Mass. “Perpetual Adoration extends its influence far beyond the individual adorers, touching their homes and families and reaching out to the parish community and beyond”. (Pope Paul VI). The Hours of Grace in Alice Spring was held at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, were devotees spend time in silence with Lord and directly experienced the comforting, consoling rays of His healing love and heart. The Hours of Grace in Brisbane was held at St Joseph’s Church (Bracken Ridge), Queensland. The faithful spent time before the Blessed Sacrament, witnessing the Lord’s presence and were very excited to reach out to others in the local community. The Hours of Grace concluded officially on 23rd May’15, with Pentecost day Vigil Mass at St. Joseph Church, (Northcote) Melbourne. “You can come to Me (in Eucharistic adoration) at any moment, at any time; I want to speak to you and I desire to grant you graces” (Jesus to St. Faustina)
Pedalling for the less fortunate “And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. “Matthew 25: 40 This new initiative by Jesus Youth Melbourne was focussed on raising fund for the less fortunate and at the same time practising one of the Six pillars of the Jesus Youth movementOptions for the poor/ Service. The money raised would go to Rehna, a 16 year old girl in India, diagnosed with cancer. The 200 Kilometres (km) bike ride took off early hours of dawn on 2nd May’15 from St Francis Xavier Church (Frankston) to St Mary’s Church (Phillip Island). Every 5 km pedalled was worth $25 donation. Eight youth from
Testimony of a cyclist When we signed up for this fundraiser we had no idea what we were up against. A 200Km bike ride looks great on a
resume or even a newspaper! It was a challenge for all of us as we lacked fitness, experience and skills. It was the team spirit and strong prayer support that helped us complete the ride. We would like to thank the support crew once again. With each
ThankYou Robert Robert Roy is 2014 fulltimership batch participant and he served 10 months in Australia after his training. Robert returned back to UK on May 11th after his commitment in Australia. During this 10 months he had travelled various cities, met various people and involved in various activities of each region
and inspired the young people across Australia. "I would like to thank Jesus Youth UK and Jesus Youth Australia for giving me such an amazing opportunity to experience the ministry in different ways and also for helping me to concentrate more on my spiritual growth." -Robert Roy
rotation of the pedal we thought about the girl. At every stop we took, we spent time in prayer for Rehna, for her to overcome the illness and our own physical strength to complete this challenge. We had strong positive hope and kept motivating each
Jesus Youth Melbourne stepped forward to take up this audacious act. The team of cyclist included Robert Roy (Jesus Youth International fulltimer), Shareen Ashok, Vyshak Mangalath, Alan Antony Pullicodu, Achu Sebastian, Ashly Shaji, David John and Joel Joseph. After every 10 Km, a decade of rosary was offered for Rehna. The cyclist faced physical challenges such as dehydration, sprain etc. but kept gallantly pedalling for their little sister, Rehna. The cyclists were supported by dedicated Soigneurs, First aid team and Intercession team from the Jesus Youth family. Together they raised $3800 which was donated for Rehna’s Bone Marrow Transplant. other all through. Once again I thank all for the support, donations and prayers. Lastly we as humans have tried, but it is God who decides. Please pray for the departed soul of Rehna. -Joel Joseph (Melbourne) JYPLF cyclist
Prayers for Edwin’s mission Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!" [1 Chronicles 16:24] Edwin Siby is the current batch International Fulltimer and has committed to serve the Lord and His flock in Bangalore, India for the next 18 months. He is pursuing a PG degree in
Audiology from Brisbane University and has taken a break after competing his first year to undergo a one month Intl fulltimership Training in Bangkok and later serve in India which is his commitment place for Mission. Edwin, as we know him is a man of prayers and is very passionate about building the Lords kingdom which led him to
go for the International Fulltimership Training. Edwin had moved to Australia in 2004 from Kerala, India and was accompanied by both his parents and sister, Edwina who is also an active member of Jesus Youth Australia. We pray for Edwin and his mission in India that he may bear much fruit, as commanded by our Lord.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus Youth Australia conducted ‘Hours of Grace 2015’(24x7 Eucharist Adoration) over a period of 3 months covering 23 parishes across 8 cities around Australia, from 16th February (Ash Monday) to 24th May (Pentecost Day). It was a great privilege and blessing for the movement to be able to run the ‘Hours of Grace’ for the 4th consecutive year. It brought local communities & parishioners under one roof to pray together for the following intentions.
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Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
The fulltimers project is one of the most important initiatives of the Jesus Youth movement. In the year 1991 a Jesus Youth inspired by an inner calling of the Holy Spirit to commit himself for a life of mission set out on this journey under the prayerful guidance of few elders and leaders. Further to this evolved the clear call for a year long fulltime commitment by youngsters for the kingdom. A training plan with a vision to enable youngsters for this commitment took shape.
Over the years nearly 1500 youngsters have undergone this training. We remember all the fulltimers who took a one-year commitment and all animators and elders who form the backbone of this project with a grateful heart. The 25 years of ‘Fulltimership’ calls for
all of us to celebrate. The silver jubilee year in 2016 calls us all to come together with a thankful heart, recommitting the dreams we nurtured way back when we underwent the training for one year and the dream of taking the Good News to the ends of the earth. This jubilee celebration will be a great opportunity for all the forerunners, their family members and all leaders and elders who have been associated with this project to gather once again and rejuvenate their spirits. As a part of this coming together, we will have an inauguration of the jubilee celebration in different regions and countries on the ‘Day of Pentecost in 2016’. And there will also be a mega gathering from 28th to 31st Dec 2016 in Kerala.
“The entry to one’s heart is through his or her feet. Jesus welcomed the disciples, he loved them, and he forgave them and encouraged them to a good life. He did not argue with them or convince them with philosophical explanations, rather he fell to their feet and won their heart.”
Jesus presents a God who is rich in Mercy (Eph 2:4), portrayed in his stories of the Prodigal Son, lost sheep, lost coin and ultimately the revelation of a Merciful God occurs when he dies on the cross forgiving everyone unconditionally. At the foot washing scene in the Gospel of John, we encounter Jesus who,filled with the Knowledge of God’s love for him, humbles himself to wash the feet of his disciples. Jesus is entering the hearts of the disciples through their feet. The entry to one’s heart is through his or her feet. Jesus welcomed the disciples, he loved them, and he forgave them and encouraged them to a good life. He did not argue with them or convince them with philosophical explanations, rather he fell to their feet and won their heart.
God’s mercy is another manifestation of His abundant love towards us. It comes with a lot of promises. God pours out his mercy to all who turn to Him with a sincere heart. God’s mercy has been a spiritual nourishment in my life. During this year of Mercy, I am learning more about divine mercy and the life of saints. Also reciting the Divine Mercy chaplet meditating on the sufferings of Christ has made a great difference in my life. Jetcy, Perth
St. Paul rightly said, he didn’t manifest the wisdom of the world in his preaching, but only the logic of the cross. And the logic of the cross is this that God loved the world and he gave his only son that everyone should be saved. In the Gospel of Luke ch. 7 we meet Jesus, who at a party allows a sinful woman to wash and anoint his feet. The host of the party questions Jesus that if he is a prophet he should have known who and what sort of person was touching his feet. For the Pharisee, it is her actions that defines her, but for Jesus “who she is” defines her. She is first and foremost a child of God and whatever she lost can be forgiven and restored. This is mercy. God washes our feet from all the stains that darken our dignity and restores us to the original dignity as his children. This is done in a meal context and we know in the catholic context the meal is the Eucharist. In other words, God shows his mercy by giving himself to us, pouring out his blood and sharing his body. The more we live a Eucharistic life, the better the world will witness a merciful God and humanity will encounter a God who suffers with them and will find hope of resurrection with him in that intimacy. Pope Francis, in his bull of indiction of the extraordinary Jubilee of mercy, instructed that every cathedral in the world will have a “holy door of mercy”, representing reconciliation, forgiveness and acceptance.
Justice and Mercy reflects God’s Love, but they are at two different levels. Justice is giving a person what he deserves whereas Mercy is on the other extreme, i.e. giving a person even if he does not deserve. The Year of Mercy is an invitation to be witnesses of this extra mile. As a family we find it challenging and thrilling to be witnesses to God’s special Love.
“This year will be an opportunity for me to practice love without measure and build a heart to heart relationship with people who come across in my daily life. By following the example of Mother Teresa, we should walk towards sainthood by daily acts of mercy and be a witness to our merciful father.” Deepak Kuriakose, Perth
He has also encouraged us to take up both corporal (feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, ransom captives, and bury the dead) and spiritual (instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, comfort the sorrowful, admonish the sinners, gladly forgive injuries, bear wrongs patiently and pray for the living and the dead) works of mercy. Let us capture hearts through the washing of the feet. However, in order to do that we need to experience the mercy of God first for ourselves. St. Augustine exclaims, “praise be to Thee, glory to Thee, O fountain of mercies. I became more wretched and thou more close to me. Let him prise you not who does not realize your mercies, which my soul’s depths confess to you”. In fact, we must be silent about God if we do not know how to speak anew the message of God’s mercy to the people who are in so much physical and spiritual distress But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 2 Cor 2:14. Fr Bony Abraham MGL (Chaplain, Jesus Youth Australia National Youth Team)
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Fulltimership Jubilee 2016
In 1992, 27 young graduates from Kerala came forward with an intense desire to change the lives of youth for Jesus. After training they took their commitment as the ‘first batch of full-timers’. This year the 23rd batch is undergoing training. Our Hindi trainings started in 2003.
Jomon , Sydney
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At the inaugural mass of his papal ministry on the feast of St. Joseph, Pope Francis addressed the faithful in the homily with these words, “In the Gospels, Saint Joseph appears as a strong and courageous man, a working man, yet in his heart we see great tenderness, which is not the virtue of the weak, but rather a sign of strength of spirit and a capacity for concern, for compassion, for genuine openness to others, for love. We must not be afraid of goodness, of tenderness!” Pope Francis has made Mercy one of the main components of the “New Evangelization”. In his address to participants in the plenary of the pontifical council for promoting the New Evangelization, Pope Francis declared, “We need Christians who make God’s mercy and tenderness for every creature visible to the men of our day”. He expressed same ethos in his first apostolic exhortation, “the joy of the Gospel”, “The church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel (EG 114). It is interesting to notice the order of actions that Pope points out here. He starts with welcoming, loving, forgiving and encouraging to lead a good life. This is where sometimes fervent Catholics struggle. We want to see everyone living the catholic way of life first, before embracing the cross of welcoming, uncon-
“I came into a deep faith in Christ after being convicted of my part played in His death on the cross. And I who should have been sent to the gallows, received life! This exchange has changed me permanently and placed the Cross of Christ at the centre of my life. I am able to show mercy and love only because I have received it in a measure I could never give. The highest points of my spiritual life are not great ministry experiences but the moments of being washed anew with His mercy. Raifiel Cyril (Litty), Gold Coast.
ditionally loving and unconditionally forgiving. The more we disengage from these actions of the cross, the world will find us hypocrites and self-righteous bullies. The world we live in now is desperately trying to cope with the immense amount of sufferings that are being experienced; the brutal terrorists attacks, the violently chaotic middle east, the plight of refugees, the heartbreaking life situations of children and women in war torn countries, the earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods and droughts etc.
“Every time I look at the cross, I see the love and mercy of a Mighty and Powerful God who created all that I see around me, yet humbly became like me to make me understand His true love for me and who calls me to be one with Him to enjoy true freedom in His grace. This year of mercy I want to deepen my relationship with the Almighty through sacraments, listening to and reading the Word, converting my prayers into action and by interceding for His divine mercy to fill the hearts of all around me with love, peace and joy.”
Though an agnostic, philosopher Emmanuel Kant’s postulation of God should be noted here. He says, if humanity should have absolute dignity, then it’s only on one condition that God exists and that he is a God of mercy and grace. Those who are forced to profess the “absence of God”, or “the eclipse of God” or “the dark night of faith”, are people who are puzzled in trying to understand God in the midst of all the sufferings. This is where Pope Francis is leading the entire church to capture the merciful God who is revealed in Jesus, “the spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (Lk 4:18).
Jethin Thottan, Adelaide
The more we disengage from these actions of the cross, the world will find us hypocrites and self-righteous bullies.
UPCOMING REGIONAL EVENTS
New JY Australia National Office: It was a long cherished dream of Jesus Youth Australia to have a national office to undertake all the administrative and day to day duties of mission, to support the initiatives of our movement and to keep documents and records centrally. After completing 10 years in Australia and addressing to this need we now have a National Office functional now. The office was blessed by Rev Fr. Prakash Cutinha on Saturday, 1st August 2015. The working hours are from 9:00 – 17:00 hrs, Mon to Wed. Binu Joseph has been appointed as the Administration Officer. Very happy to report that we received generous help and guidance from the Melbourne Archdiocese New JY office details as follow: Jesus Youth Australia National Office 140 Westbourne Grove Northcote VIC 3070 Tel: 0405 786 587 Email: officedesk@jesusyouth.org.au
Melbourne JY Music Night
19th December 2015 St. Peter’s Church hall , Clayton
Perth “I-Follow 2015”
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Marriage
The word ‘marriage’ isn’t simply a label that can be attached and transferred to different types of relationships as the fashion of the day dictates. It has an intrinsic or natural meaning prior to anything we may invent or the state may legislate. It reflects God’s plan for humanity, our personal growth and that of our children and society. To say that other friendships are not marriages is not to demean those other friendships or the individuals concerned, but merely to recognise that...
Youth Growth retreat at Epiphany Retreat Centre, Rossmoyne. 16-19 October 2015
...marriage is the covenant of a man and a woman to live as husband and wife, exclusively and for life, and open to the procreation of children.
“The Stream”
Family retreat at Epiphany Retreat Centre, Rossmoyne. 6-8 October 2015
Sydney Family Retreat, 22,23 &24th January 2016 . Resource persons: Br. Fritz and Diana
...taken from “Don’t Mess with Marriage” : A Pastoral Letter from the Catholic Bishops of Australia to all Australians on the ‘Same-sex Marriage’ Debate. To read the full letter go to -
”
https://www.sydneycatholic.org/pdf/ DMM-booklet_web.pdf. Further information and resources about the truth and meaning of marriage can also be found in • •
http://www.lifemarriagefamily. org.au http://www.cam.org.au/lifemarriagefamily/
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
COVER STORY CONTINUED...
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October
November
December
Universal: That human trafficking, the mod-
Universal: That we may be open to personal
Universal: That all may ex-
Evangelization: That pastors of the Church, with profound love for their flocks, may accompany them and enliven their hope.
Evangelization: That fami-
Evangelization: That with a missionary
spirit the Christian communities of Asia may announce the Gospel to those who are still awaiting it.
VBS, Brisbane
Living Biblically, Brisbane
SYDNEY I Thirst Teens and Children’s Retreat I Thirst Teens and Children’s Retreat was held from 28 June to 1st July. There were more than 100 participants and it was led by Fr.Bony , Sr.Rosey and Mayrose for the teens and Jy Families and youth team for the children.
Youth Expo The Archdiocese of Brisbane had organized a Youth and Vocational Expo on Sunday 08 August from 12 pm. Different youth groups and around 30 catholic communities from across Brisbane had participated in the event. We were asked to put up a stall at the program to spread awareness of who we are and the various activities we undertake every year within the diocese. Some of our Youth also performed a group dance at the expo.
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
Life in the Spirit
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Jy Sydney has started a Life in The Spirit Seminar for three streams namely Jy Families , Jy Teens and Jy Children . The seminar started last month and we meet every third Saturday 6pm to 8pm at All Saints Catholic Church, Liverpool
BRISBANE VBS VBS was conducted for kids between age 5 to age 12 (Year 1 to Year 8). The theme was “Weird Animals”. The VBS crew allowed kids to travel to stations in their small groups of five. Daily Bible Points were reinforced during every activity. .New worship songs and classic hymns were always a hit with the kids. They sang, danced and praised Jesus at VBS! Kids made and served snacks, and learned the importance and joy of putting others first at the diner station. The fun games played helped the kids to connect to the everyday bible verse. They learned to help others no matter without judgement. Eventually the Sky VBS program provided the kids with actionable ways to share God’s love with one another and also helped them to trust in God no matter what!!!!!
Grace 2015 A Four day residential retreat for JY families was organized by Jesus Youth Queensland with a purpose to give an opportunity to learn about our call as Christian families, our moral commitment, our mission as the domestic church and to embark on a journey towards unselfishness and holiness. ‘GRACE 2015’ was held at Camp Tamborine, 28 Keswick Road – North Tamborine 4272 QLD, from 5th June until 8th June 2015. Tomas Michael a well-known preacher among the youth and family around the world led this retreat. About 25 families participated in it.
JY Brisbane Council Reconstitution On 25th of July 2015, Jesus Youth in Brisbane elected a new team to lead them for the next two years. Along with Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy and Fr. Joseph Thottankara, we had the presence of Anoob Joseph (JY National Co-ordinator) and Jento Joy (National council member) to preside over the reconstitution process. A new team was elected following the process as outlined in the JY statutes.
The new team: Sebastian Joseph (Coordinator), Dijo Joy (Asst Co-ordinator), Vijoy Paul, Honey Johny, Sibi Joseph, Shibu Varkey, Nishan Mathew, Siju Mathew (Family Team Co-ordinator), Diana Sony (Youth Team Co-ordinator), Fr. Thomas Manimala (Spiritual Director), Reji Kottukapilly (Animator).
Living Biblically in a Secular World Seminar: Jesus Youth Brisbane was invited to host the final ‘Living Biblically’ seminar for 2015 on Wednesday 16 September in the Cathedral of St Stephen, Brisbane from 7.15pm-9pm. Living Biblically in a Secular World is a formation series. Drawing on his biblical scholarship, Archbishop Mark demonstrated the capacity of God’s word to speak into such issues and its power to transform our lives. This formation series has been well supported, each of the seven sessions to date have been filmed and the audio and video recordings placed on the Archdiocesan and Evangelisation Brisbane websites. “Jesus Youth is a gift that we received from the Indian church to Australia. Thank you Jesus Youth”, Archbishop Mark Coleridge remarked during the session to an audience of approximately hundred faithful. The tasks involved in hosting the seminar were hospitality, MC-ing, prayer and music, managing the Q&A segment, giving a reflection on the Archbishop’s talk etc. A double sided A5 prayer sheet with songs was prepared and distributed by Jesus Youth which helped the audience to participate in the seminar actively.
encounter and dialogue with all, even those whose convictions differ from our own.
New National Council, Family and Youth Teams
perience the mercy of God, who never tires of forgiving.
lies, especially those who suffer, may find in the birth of Jesus a sign of certain hope.
Election for a new National Council of Jesus Youth Australia was conducted at the end of a 3 Day National Growth Retreat in Melbourne (Jan 23 - 36), attended by over 100 participants from Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne, Sydney & Perth.
missioning Holy Mass & Ceremony of the New National Council. C C Joseph (Jesus Youth Int'l Council Coordinator) was with us during the reconstitution process and election. Fr Ken Barker MGL & Fritz Mascarenhas (ICPE Mission) were the other main speakers of the Retreat.
Bishop Eugene Hurley (Bishop of Darwin) was present during the com-
The new teams are:
Jesus Youth Australia National Council: Anoob Joseph (National Council Coordinator), Nojan Augustine (Asst. Coordinator), Jento Joy, Jetcy Joseph, Roby Joshua, Sabitha Shijo, Lijesh Thomas, Ajesh Abraham, Nishan Mathew, Deepak Kuriakose (Ex-officio), Manoj Vechoorettu (Ex-officio), Rejy Kottukapally (Animator), Thomas Issac (Animator), Fr Thomas Areekuzhy (Chaplain), Navin Mundackal, Rajesh T George (Ex-officio) and Siju Mathew (Ex-officio).
Jesus Youth Australia National Youth Team: Deepak Kuriakose( Coordinator), Blessy Thomas, Jerin Joseph, Dijo Joy, Babitha Geevarghese, Jethin Thottan, and Sidharth Jose (Ex-officio)
Jesus Youth Australia National Family Team: Manoj & Binnu Vechoorettu (Coordinator), Benny Poulose & Princy Benny, Joshy Scaria & Neethu Varghese, Sojin Sebastian & Priya Sojin, Shaji Joseph & Jeseentha Thomas, Lyju Eddassery & Roshin Lyju and Biju Kattickaran & Preetha (Ex-officio).
Youth Expo, Brisbane
I Thirst, Sydney
National Growth Retreat
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
ern form of slavery, may be eradicated.
Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions
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(217) Laudato Si POPE FRANCIS
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Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
A call to love!
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There is an old joke I know,-so old, in fact, that it may be unbeknownst to a newer charismatic generation and, therefore, recyclable. A young farmer, standing in his field, observes a peculiar cloud formation. The clouds form the letters G, P, and C, and he considers it a call from God to- Go Preach Christ! The farmer rushes to the deacons of his church and insists that he has been called to preach. Respectful of his ardour, they invite him to fill the pulpit. That Sunday, the sermon is long, tedious, and virtually incoherent. When it finally ends, the leaders sit in stunned silence. Finally, a wizened deacon mutters to the would-be preacher, “Seems to me the clouds were saying ‘Go plant corn.’” Even if there were truth to this joke, it wouldn’t be the first time there’s been confusion about what it means to be called into ministry. The concept of a call is one of the most profound of all biblical ideas. The Bible is riddled with stories about calls to men and women who, when summoned to service, went out and marked their generation in a profound way. Such calls had several commonalities. When St. Francis was asked why God called him, he said, “God picks the weakest, the smallest, the meanest of men on the face of the earth, and he uses them.”
In one way or another, they all originated out of the Godhead. God the Father called Abraham, Moses, Isaiah, and Amos (to name a few). Jesus called twelve men “to be with him,” and then sent them out to disciple the nations. The Holy Spirit called Saul and Barnabas and others to apostolic opportunity. As special and unique as you are, and as much as God loves you, he doesn’t need you to do anything for him. If he did, he could just send you a memo, right? What he wants, more than any accomplishment, is your heart. He wants to bring you into a relationship with him. To hear God’s calling, you must learn to recognize his voice, and there’s no shortcut for that. So my first and biggest request is this: Spend time in God’s Word and time in prayer. As I mentioned in the beginning of this newly elected National Council, we must identify our call to start this journey as one family in Christ and His Church. “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. Jn 13: 34 – 35”. As a Jesus Youth family, the first and primary call should be to ‘Love one another’. Identification of this call for Love must begin from our family, team members households and from our own parishes.
In Australia, our ministry’s main focus over the next years is to prepare the entire movement to identify the call of each Jesus Youth by implementation of the newly evolving formation plan. Every region is ready now and I thank the Lord for this precious gift of a new plan and all the leaders of each region for their hard work and co-operation in this formation plan. Jesus Youth across the world have started re-discovering their call during the Commitment day to live the call in “Prayer, Lifestyle and Formation”. As we pray in our Jesus Youth daily prayer let us surrender our self to the Lord, especially our thoughts and our will and gladly accept His sovereignty in our Life . May every Jesus Youth always seek His glory in our missionary journey. Let’s open ourselves completely to the work of the Holy Spirit in us and in the ministry which God has entrusted to each one of us to identify our call. With Love and Prayers, ANOOB JOSEPH JESUS YOUTH NATIONAL CO-ORDINATOR
from the coordinator
Being the Chaplain for JY Melbourne, I was awaiting an opportunity to participate in the Jesus Youth International Animator’s Training Program. I attended the same this year in July at the Camillian Centre, Thailand. At the outset I As the Chaplain for JY Melbourne, I was eagerly awaiting an opportunity to participate in the Jesus Youth International Animator’s Training Program. I attended the same this year in July at the Camillian Centre, Thailand. At the outset I should say it was a wonderful experience. It was a time of great information sharing, going through the reformation process and experiencing transformations. There were 18 animators consisting of 9 priests, 2 religious sisters, and 7 lay people. The group was quite charismatic especially Fr. Patrick and Fr. Polycarp from Uganda, Celine from Kenya, as well as the other priests and lay people who work in various parts of the world. It was a physically, psychologically and spiritually nourishing time for me. It was a refreshing change away from my normal routine. It was incredibly relaxing, and at times reminded me of my seminary days. I loved the games, walks and the group excursions. The program started with a 3-day retreat. This was a time of inner silence, reflection, and receiving the spirit of God. I also used this as a time to evaluate my own personal life. This was a time to look back on my faith journey and to attune myself to the promptings of the Holy Spirit while nourishing myself with the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation. The constant intercession, Jesus Youth prayer at noon and the melodious and spirit filled hymns, helped me to connect to my Creator. I am grateful to the enormous bundle of knowledge that was imparted at this training program. The wonderful insights on the role and mission of the Laity, role of the ecclesial movements, knowing Jesus Youth in depth, its statutes and charisms, practical aspects of youth animation, communication skills, attitudes of an animator and the integrity of an animator. Animated bible studies had clarified the numerous questions I had in my mind about Jesus Youth. I thank all the organisers of this training program without mentioning the names of anyone lest I fall into the sin of omission. Please pray for me so that I am able to work as a worthy instrument in the hands of God in His vineyard of JY.
news
r aus
an update of Jesus Youth Australia events
Connect 2015, Melbourne
MELBOURNE Family & Kids Day – JY Victoria On 22nd August Families in Victoria had a fruitful time of Prayer and Fellowship at Box Hill. 28 Young families and 40 kids joined the fun filled day. The family streams focus was on enriching their Christian life to experience the true Joy and happiness in families. Thomas Isaac and Dr. Priya led the morning session, sharing their insights and experiences in their journey as a couple enriching and encouraging each other towards a life of holiness and Christian Joy. In the afternoon, we had a guest speaker from Melbourne Archdiocese team on Natural Fertility Services, Melbourne helping young families to learn more about natural ways of family planning as God designed it. Ms. Lesa Meese, the state educator and the national secretary for the Australian Council of Natural Family Planning was a great resource, who gave insights from experience as an educator and mother of 7 children. The informative session helped families to realise how its practice enriches the couple’s lives in real love, care and sacrifice. She also answered various questions from couples. The highlight of the day was the Dance competition for couples, which saw active participation of all couples in true sportsmanship. The day ended with a time of prayer and adoration. The Kids had a follow up VBS program lead by the Kids ministry under the leadership of Mrs. Sumi Vinu. The Kids had a fun filled day involving various activities, stories, dance and skits.
The active involvement of Kids encouraged every volunteer and the parents requested the team for regular follow up programs for kids. Every kid went back with some interesting lessons about their loving companion Jesus
CONNECT 2015 After months of prayers and preparation, the teens retreat Connect 2015 helped enrich and challenge the lives of 49 young teens to live a Christ centred lifestyle. The 4 day retreat was held from 2nd July to 4th July under the able guidance of Fr Bony MGL. Set in the serene ambience of Don Bosco retreat centre, Listerfield, the retreat saw the active participation of more than 30 full time and part time volunteers, with the Youth Team, Melbourne playing the key role. The mighty grace of our Lord almighty was experienced by the participants and the organizers abundantly.
ADELAIDE RECONSTITUTION The reconstitution ceremony was held in Adelaide on 25th July. With the help of the Holy Spirit a new team was appointed as follows:Rojo Antony - Animator, Fr. Alex Vickers - Chaplain , Prince Thomas Coordinator and eight other council members, Family team - Antony KP, Youth team - Anil Antony, Intercession team-Shine.
Family and Kids Day, Melbourne
PERTH
JY @ VERITAS Jesus Youth Perth showcased a message of prolife at the exhibition in the Perth Catholic Youth Movement 2015 event, Veritas on 11th July 2015 at the Santa Maria School. The event, Veritas is a first of its kind, 3 day youth gathering with various youth and charismatic groups in Perth was filled with music, messages, addresses from Bishop, exhibition stalls and a prelude to the ACYF in Adelaide happening in December 2015. The Perth Jesus youth pro-life stall was organized by the JY Youth group along with the key leaders. It exhibited the pro-life message with posters and videos with an opportunity to take a commitment to be pro-life or pray a rosary for an unborn child. The stall was open for the audience from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm. Many youth had an insight to the prevalence and incidence of abortions by attending the exhibition. It was an excellent opportunity to reach out to the youth of Perth from different groups and also provide awareness.
FR. PRAKASH CUTINHA Chaplain, JY MELBOURNE
JY @ Veritas Perth.
The reconstitution, Adelaide
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
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Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience.
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
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aus tral i a@je s us yo uth. o rg
www.jesusyouth.org.au
dAyBreAk JESUS YOUTH AUSTRALIA NEWSLETTER
Jesus Youth Australia Newsletter October 2015
4 Cover Story
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Pope Francis’ VOCATION PRAYER
Hours of Grace
LORD OF THE HARVEST, BLESS young people with the gift of courage to respond to your call. Open their hearts to great ideals, to great things. INSPIRE all of your disciples to mutual love and giving—for vocations blossom in the good soil of faithful people. INSTIL those in religious life, parish ministries, and families with the confidence and grace to invite others to embrace the bold and noble path of a life consecrated to you. UNITE us to Jesus through prayer and sacrament, so that we may cooperate with you in building your reign of mercy and truth, of justice and peace. Amen. — Adapted from the Message on the 51st World Day of Prayer for Vocations
Thank you for the ongoing support
Jesus Youth Australia acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians in all Australian communities.
DOORS OF MERCY Mercy: The Key to One’s Heart, is the word that echoes in the Catholic Church these days, thanks to the frequent use of
it, both in words and actions by Pope Francis. We can rightly say that the theme of Mercy is the centre of his papacy.
8 Mission PNG & Nauru
14 News R Aus
COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
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This newsletter is an initiative of Jesus Youth Australia (www.jesusyouth.org.au), produced by Jesus Youth Australia National Council. For any comments or suggestions contact us at officedesk@jesusyouth.org.au
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October 2015