Vasai Diocese Hosts Formation Session for Youth Animators

Sandor, Vasai, July 21, 2025 – The Diocese of Vasai, through its youth ministry Yuvadarshan, organised a special Ongoing Formation session for Parish Youth Coordinators (Directors), Religious Animators, and Lay Animators on Sunday, 20th July 2025. The session was held at Atmashodh Kendra, Sandor, starting in the evening.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from 93 members across the diocese, including parish youth coordinators, religious animators, and lay leaders committed to guiding and supporting young people in their faith journey.

The programme began with action songs and a time of prayer, setting a lively and spiritual tone for the evening. Bishop Thomas D’Souza, Bishop of the Diocese of Vasai, addressed the gathering with words of encouragement. He highlighted the vital role of ongoing formation and pastoral support in nurturing youth ministry within parishes.

Guest speaker Dr. Cynthia D’Costa, Associate Professor, delivered a thought-provoking talk addressing youth-related concerns and the pressing realities facing today’s young generation. She urged the animators to approach these challenges with empathy and informed awareness, equipping themselves to walk meaningfully alongside the youth.

Fr. Christopher, Youth Director of Yuvadarshan, spoke next, underlining the essential role of accompaniment in youth ministry. He emphasised the need for animators to actively support and engage with young people in their various initiatives and programmes.

Adding to the evening's insights, Fr. Dr Joel D’Cunha, Vicar General of the Diocese of Vasai, presented the framework and structural overview for the upcoming Diocesan Youth Convention scheduled for October 2025.

To support parish youth efforts, each participating parish received a copy of the Yuvadarshan Magazine along with Pope Francis’ exhortation Christus Vivit – both offered as practical resources and encouragement for ongoing ministry.

The session ended on a cheerful note with the distribution of snacks and time for informal fellowship, giving participants the opportunity to connect and share experiences.

This formation session marks the first in a series planned for Parish Core Teams across the diocese, with several more to follow in the coming months as part of a broader initiative to strengthen youth ministry.

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