Young Catholic Leaders Chart Pastoral Roadmap at Mysuru Orientation

Mysuru, February 17, 2026: In a concerted effort to strengthen grassroots leadership and coordinated pastoral action, the Youth Commission of the Diocese of Mysore convened a two-day Youth Orientation and Live-in Programme on February 14–15 at the Catholic Centre, Mysuru, bringing together newly elected deanery youth leaders from across the diocese.

The formation programme assembled Deanery Executive Committee (DEXCO) members and representatives from all nine deaneries, offering strategic direction for youth ministry in the year ahead. Designed as a space for reflection and capacity-building, the initiative aimed to equip young leaders with organisational competence rooted in faith-based engagement and social responsibility.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Arul Selva Kumar, Coordinator of all Commissions, called on participants to embrace active responsibility within both Church and society. He urged prudent engagement with social media, noting the influence young leaders wield in shaping public attitudes and values.

Outlining the broader pastoral vision, Fr Maria Xavier, Diocesan Youth Director, emphasised coordinated planning among deaneries as essential for sustaining vibrant youth initiatives. The participation of diocesan and regional youth representatives underscored the link between grassroots leadership and diocesan direction.

In a keynote reflection, Bishop Francis Serrao reminded participants that young people are both the present and the future of the Church, urging them to lead with conviction and integrity. He encouraged them to become leaders “who show the way, know the way, and walk the way,” assuring continued diocesan support.

The programme featured thematic sessions integrating pastoral vision with practical engagement. Fr Thomas Vijay reflected on youth participation in parish life, highlighting responsibility and sustained commitment. Fr Robin led a session on Faith Talk and Youth Spirituality, encouraging participants to articulate their faith meaningfully in contemporary contexts.

Interactive workshops and team-building exercises fostered collaboration across deaneries, culminating in a diocesan action plan for youth ministry. Facilitated by Fr Maria Xavier, the process sought to translate reflection into structured pastoral initiatives at the local level.

With the participation of 45 youth leaders, the orientation marked a significant step toward nurturing informed, committed and mission-oriented leadership within the Diocese of Mysore, as delegates returned to their deaneries with a renewed sense of purpose and shared responsibility.

By DS Mysore