YCS/YSM Tamil Nadu holds Regional General Body Meeting in Tiruchirappalli

TIRUCHIRAPPALLI, June 27, 2025: The Regional General Body Meeting of the Young Catholic Students/Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM), Tamil Nadu Region, was held on June 22 in Tiruchirappalli. The event brought together several student leaders, diocesan youth representatives, and church officials from various dioceses across Tamil Nadu to review recent activities, engage in meaningful dialogue, and promote youth leadership.

The day commenced with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by His Excellency Bishop Nazarene Soosai, Bishop of Kottar Diocese, who also serves as the chairman of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council’s Youth Commission. 

Following the Mass, YCS/YSM Tamil Nadu State President John Rex and Vice President Silambarasi hoisted the movement’s flag. Treasurer Adams led the YCS/YSM anthem, while Secretary Lourdu Mary read the Preamble to the Indian Constitution, affirming the movement’s commitment to democratic and constitutional values.

The first session of the day commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp. Presentations of activity and financial reports from the past six months followed. Representatives from diocesan units then shared updates on local initiatives, showcasing the vibrant grassroots involvement of youth across Tamil Nadu.

The second session of the day featured a screening of a short film titled Kayal. The film, which was produced by the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement, highlighted the plight of abandoned widows and the importance of youth involvement in their support. 

Sr. Jesu Packiam then shared her experience and learnings from the recently held "Pedagogy Pro Youth Ministry" programme and also outlined her follow-up initiatives to strengthen youth movements in the state.

During the third session of the day, a short film titled Thulir was screened. The film powerfully depicted the struggles of women confronting patriarchal violence.

Following this, Fr. Edison, Secretary of the Youth Commission, delivered a keynote address on "The Relevance and Functioning of the YCS/YSM". He highlighted the enduring legacy of Cardinal Joseph Cardijn, founder of the YCS/YSM movement, praising him as a pioneering social reformer and urging all attendees to follow his methodology.

Participants later engaged in group discussions on establishing and sustaining YCS/YSM units in parishes and schools within Tamil Nadu. The discussions, guided by participatory and sociocratic principles, focused on promoting the Cardijn methodology and enhancing youth leadership at the grassroots level.

In the concluding session, Bishop Nazarene reminded the gathering of the YCS/YSM movement’s former strength in Tamil Nadu, which once boasted over one lakh active members. He urged the students to stay alert to social injustices, actively investigate their causes, and respond with informed, courageous action.

The meeting concluded with the passing of resolutions based on group deliberations and the resounding singing of the YCS/YSM anthem. Participants expressed deep appreciation for Bishop Nazarene’s presence and active engagement throughout the day.

By Abishek Raja A.