'Youth Must Become the Fifth Gospel,' Bishop Chakkalakal Tells Kerala Catholic Youth

Idukki, July 7, 2026: Urging young people to become authentic witnesses of Christ in today's world, Bishop Varghese Chakkalakal of Kozhikode, President of the Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC), said Catholic youth must become the "Fifth Gospel" by living the message of Jesus through their words and actions.

The bishop was inaugurating Kairos 2026, the Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM) State Youth Day celebrations at Murickassery in Idukki, where more than 2,500 young people, priests, religious and community leaders from Catholic dioceses across Kerala gathered for the annual event.

Emphasising that the Gospel must be experienced before it is proclaimed, Bishop Chakkalakal called on young people to be visible signs of hope, faith and compassion in society. He encouraged them to lead lives that reflect Christian values, enabling others to encounter Christ through their witness.

KCYM State President Shibin Shaji presided over the inaugural session. Bishop John Nellikunnel of Idukki, Chairman of the KCBC Youth Commission, delivered the benedictory address, while Fr. Jose Karivelickal, Vicar General of the Diocese of Idukki, presented the keynote address.

The celebrations began with colourful processions carrying the Youth Day flag, a ceremonial torch and a portrait of St. Thomas More from different parts of Idukki to the venue, symbolising the unity and missionary spirit of Catholic youth across the state.

KCYM State General Secretary Casey Pooppana, State Director Fr. Ditto Koola, Assistant Director Dr. Sr. Norberta CTC, State Advisory Committee member Sijo Elanthoor, representatives of the organising committee and leaders of the KCYM Idukki Diocese also addressed the gathering.

The day concluded with cultural performances and a musical evening, celebrating the faith, talent and solidarity of Kerala's Catholic youth while reaffirming their commitment to active participation in the life and mission of the Church.

By Catholic Connect Reporter