The Archdiocese of Bombay is marking the Jubilee Year with an exciting series of faith-based activities under the "High-Five" event initiative, designed to connect young people with their faith through music, sports, art, outreach, and digital evangelization. Spearheaded by the Diocesan Youth Centre (DYC), these dynamic programs are being held at the diocesan, deanery, and parish levels, creating a vibrant atmosphere for youth across the region.
Deacon Ivan Fernandez, Director of the Diocesan Youth Centre, spoke to Vatican News about the concept, explaining that the "High-Five" theme resonates deeply with the youth, symbolizing both enthusiasm and celebration. "So this time, it's a high-five with Jesus," he said, emphasizing the joyful and energetic spirit of the initiative.
Among the highlights of the High-Five events is the Prayer-athon, which combines faith with athleticism. Inspired by Pope Francis' encouragement of sportsmanship as a tool for fostering unity, love, and fellowship, this event invites participants to walk, cycle, or run as a pilgrimage to a designated location, culminating at the Jubilee Cross. Deacon Fernandez highlighted a standout moment in the Bandra deanery, where youth gathered for Holy Mass and fellowship at the Jubilee Cross.
On February 1, 2025, the Diocesan Youth Centre hosted Rocklamation, a diocesan-level event held at St. Francis Church in Mumbai. This event brought together around 2,000 young people for a night of prayer, adoration, and a gospel music concert led by Dr. Jarvis and his band. Zenia Fernandes, a member of the DYC team, reflected on the event, describing it as an engaging platform for both worship and learning, strengthening the call to proclaim Jesus as the ‘rock’ of their lives.
Another exciting initiative is HEart, a parish-level program designed to inspire young people through art, sculpture, and sacred imagery. Deacon Fernandez described it as an encounter with masterpieces, such as Rembrandt's painting of the Parable of the Prodigal Son, drawing youth into a deeper understanding of God's grace and love.
CIAO (Carlo Inspiring Action and Outreach) celebrates the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, focusing on the centrality of the Eucharist in the lives of young people. Through this event, youth will not only deepen their devotion but also engage in outreach programs, serving those in need with compassion and charity.
Lastly, 8.25FM is an initiative aimed at empowering young people to spread the Gospel via social media. By training 25 young individuals in digital evangelization, the initiative seeks to create a direct, peer-to-peer connection with the faith, aligning with Pope Francis' call for short, impactful moments of preaching.
These "High-Five" events reflect the Archdiocese of Bombay’s innovative approach to engaging young people in the Jubilee Year, fostering a deeper connection with Christ through music, sports, art, outreach, and social media.