Antsirabe, Madagascar – The Opening Ceremony of the JMJ MADA X 2022, the Tenth National Catholic Youth Day in Madagascar witnessed the presence of 30,000 Youth from 22 Dioceses across the country. The Catholic event held every fourth year, with the last one being held in 2018, will run till the 4th September.

This opening day was graced with the presence of the Apostolic Pro-Nuncio, secretaries from the Nunciature, Bishops from all 22 dioceses and youth chaplains from each diocese.

The event began with the Holy Mass presided over by Bishop Philippe Ranaivomanana of the Diocese of Antsirabé.

The Celebrations similar to the World Youth Day brings together youth from all over the country.

The aim of the convention is to deepen the faith of the Catholic Youth in the country. Though there are 18 enthnic groups, the common language Malagasy will used during the event.

The Cultural Minister representing the President was present during the opening ceremony. The Governor of the Vakinankaratra region spoke to the Youth about the convention.

The Catholic Church expressed their gratitude to the government and local authorities for their support in organising the event and for erecting the stage for the Holy Mass.

Bishop Georges Varkey Puthiyakulangara, Bishop of Port-Bergé, Madagascar said the event is a witness to the cooperation between the government and the Catholic Church in the country. He also said that government offers its support as the Church is actively participating in the development of the country. The people of the region rely and look upto the Catholic Church’s contribution in the fields of education, social, health and infrastructure.

The pilgrims are divided in 59 places and gather at Sixteen different sites for Catechism during the convention. Catechetical messages will be delivered by the Bisophs to the Youth at these sites. The Bishop in each site will also celebrate the Holy Mass with the Youth groups.

Adoration and Confessions are also scheduled every day. On Saturday the 3rd, a special night vigil similar to the one held during the World Youth Day has also been arranged, 15 kms away from the main convention site. The youth will travel by foot to this site.

The Way of the Cross from the railway station through the streets of Antsirabe town is sure to give a witness of faith by the Catholic youth of Madagascar.

Bishop George said he was inspired by the zeal of the youth, some of them had walked for about five days to reach the convention site.

Andry Rajoelina, the President of Madagascar will be the chief guest of the closing ceremony and will also be present for the Holy Mass on the 4th.