National Youth Day in Bangladesh

Youth from around the country travelled to Birishiri, Diocese of Mymensingh, for the gathering promoted by the Bishops' Conference in the Jubilee Year. Archbishop Bejoy N. D'Cruze of Dhaka urges youth “to be more actively engaged in the Church, making it more vibrant and beautiful.”

Dhaka (AsiaNews) – The Catholic Church in Bangladesh is currently celebrating its National Youth Day (NYD), which began last Wednesday at the Don Bosco School & College in Utrail, Birishiri, Diocese of Mymensingh.

Centred on the theme “Youths are pilgrims in hope”, the six-day gathering brings together some 500 college and university students, youth workers and Church leaders from all over the country.

Organised by the Episcopal Commission for Youth, the gathering includes various activities, including Holy Mass, adoration of the cross, meetings, catechetical and motivational sessions, confessions, a cultural festival, stands and presentations by different dioceses.

On Thursday, Archbishop Kevin Stuart Randall, Apostolic Nuncio to Bangladesh, led the Holy Mass. In his homily, he urged young Catholics to follow Catholic social teachings and remain steadfast in their faith.

“Different opinions and doctrines may come your way, but always trust in the teachings of the Catholic Church. Prayer is the medium through which we connect with God. Just as you use your cell phone multiple times a day, you should also pray multiple times daily,” he emphasised.

The archbishop further reminded youth that holiness is not reserved only for priests, nuns, and religious brothers but for everyone. “Let us realize this in our lives. Through baptism, we have made a commitment to God. In this Jubilee Year, I pray that hope and inspiration will fill your hearts.”

Ankur Johan Costa, one of the youths present, expressed his joy in participating in National Youth Day. “Today, I am very happy. I have learned many things from this event,” he said. “As a young Catholic, I now realise that I can contribute significantly to the Church. Our Church leaders have inspired us, and I will actively participate in Church activities.”

Another participant, Romana Gomes, shared her experience. “This is the Jubilee Year, and we had insightful sessions about its significance. Our speakers showed us love and trust, giving us hope and inspiration,” she said.

“The Catholic Church needs us to make it more vibrant. I am already involved in Church activities, and in the future, I will be even more committed to supporting the Church. We, the youth, have gathered from across the country for NYD. We are praying, eating, and dancing together while learning from one another. We will return home with renewed hope and inspiration,” she added.

The Diocese of Mymensingh has a substantial Garo tribal Catholic community. Participants were able to enjoy local food and traditional dance performances, with young people holding placards with messages such as “Sunday is the Lord’s Day, Attend Holy Mass,” “The Lord is My Shepherd,” and “Light of NYD, Shine in the Hearts of Youth.”

In his address, Archbishop N. D'Cruze of Dhaka, President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Bangladesh, encouraged young people. “You are receiving valuable education here. I hope you will embrace it, strengthening your faith and Christian values. I expect you to be more actively engaged in the Church, making it more vibrant and beautiful.”

The Episcopal Commission for Youth aims to promote Christian values, personal development and social awareness among high school students, encouraging them to assume their responsibilities for society, the Church and the country.

ECCLESIA IN ASIA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES IN ASIA. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY SUNDAY? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE.

• bangladesh
• mymensingh
• birishiri
• utrail
• national youth day
• celebrations