Diocese of Lucknow Celebrates Youth and Vocation Sunday

Lucknow, U.P., Aug. 27, 2025 — The Lucknow Diocesan Youth Commission marked Youth and Vocation Sunday on August 24 with a vibrant event at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hazratganj. The celebration brought together over 150 young people from parishes across the diocese for a day of prayer, reflection, and fellowship. Organised under the leadership of Fr. Dominic Pinto (Diocesan Youth Director), Fr. Anup Emmanuel Lakra (Assistant Director), and Sr. Rajni Tigga, FDCC (Diocesan Youth Lady Animator), the event aimed to inspire and strengthen the faith and vocational journey of the Catholic youth of the diocese.

The celebration commenced with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Bp. Dr. Gerald John Mathias, Bishop of Lucknow. Several other diocesan priests concelebrated the Mass alongside the bishop. 

In his homily, Bishop Gerald reminded the youth that Jesus wants them to proclaim the Good News so that all may come to know the true God. Calling them “Pilgrims of Hope”, he urged the youth never to lose hope until they reach their ultimate goal, reminding them that the Lord has chosen each one to serve with humility and faithfulness. The youth actively participated in the liturgy through readings, prayers, offertory, and choir, enriching the Eucharistic celebration.

Following the Mass, an inauguration and welcome ceremony was held in the cathedral hall, led by Mr. Aryan Lawrance (Diocesan Youth President) and Mr. Roshan Toppo (Diocesan Youth Technical Head). Dignitaries, including Bishop Gerald, the Diocesan Youth Director, the Assistant Diocesan Youth Director and the Diocesan Youth Lady Animator, were warmly welcomed and honoured during the programme.

The day featured an engaging and inspiring session by Ms. Shirley Coutinho, a member of the CCBI Youth Commission and a renowned motivational speaker who has delivered numerous spiritual talks at National Youth Conferences across the country. 

In her address, Ms. Shirley reminded the youth that the Christian life is rooted in action and a faithful response to God’s call. She emphasised the importance of embracing their identity as children of God, trusting in His providence, and rising with renewed strength after experiencing setbacks in life. Encouraging a life of joy through prayer, she highlighted Jesus as their ultimate role model and Heaven as their final goal—one that requires perseverance and patience. The session, both interactive and practical, inspired the youth to grow spiritually and take responsibility for living as true disciples of Christ.

Senior youth members present at the event shared their personal faith experiences, motivating the younger generation to remain steadfast in their spiritual lives. The DEXCO team of the diocese worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth and meaningful execution of the programme.

The celebration concluded on a joyful note, leaving the participants spiritually enriched and committed to discerning their vocations as true witnesses of Christ.

By Mr. Aryan Lawrance, 

Diocesan Youth President,

Diocese of Lucknow

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