Kottayam: The Pala Diocese is preparing to welcome young voices from across its parishes as it hosts the Eparchial Youth Assembly from August 31 to September 2 at the Alphonsian Pastoral Institute in Pala. The three-day gathering aims to be more than just a conference it will be a vibrant platform where faith, society, and the challenges of the modern world intersect.
The assembly will formally begin at 3 pm on August 31, with an opening session that sets the tone for dialogue and reflection. Over the course of the event, the youth will engage directly with church leadership. Bishop Mar Joseph Kallara Ngat, along with Chief Vicar General Monsignor Joseph Thadathil and Vicar Generals Monsignor Sebastian Vethanath, Monsignor Joseph Kaniotikkal, and Monsignor Joseph Maleparambil, will be present at different sessions to interact with the participants, listening to their concerns and guiding them with pastoral wisdom.
One of the highlights of the program will be the panel discussions, bringing together voices from the worlds of politics, law, and media. Among those participating are political leaders Jinto John, Adv. Rony Mathew, Adv. Sean George, and journalist Tom Kuriakose. The inclusion of leaders outside church structures underlines the assembly’s broader vision encouraging youth to think critically about their role in civic life, social responsibility, and public discourse.
In addition to political and social themes, the assembly will delve into a wide range of pressing issues, including the future of the Church and youth organizations, family challenges, entrepreneurship, and the fast-changing influence of technology. Representatives of other church-level youth movements and directors of various diocesan organizations will contribute their insights, ensuring a multi-dimensional dialogue.
The scale of the event is significant nearly two hundred youth representatives from across the diocese are expected to participate. Their collective voice is expected to shape new directions for youth ministry in the Pala Diocese.
The concluding session is scheduled for 1 pm on September 2. The assembly will be steered by the leadership of the Syro-Malabar Youth Movement (SMYM), Pala Diocese, with Fr. Mani Kankankutty (Director), Anwin Soni Odachuvattil (President), Robin T. Jose Thannimala (General Secretary), Edwin Jayce (Treasurer), Mijo Joy (State Syndicate Member), and Don Joseph Soni (Office Secretary) playing key roles in guiding the proceedings.
By blending spirituality, intellectual engagement, and social responsibility, the Pala Eparchial Youth Assembly seeks to equip a new generation of leaders rooted in faith, yet responsive to the evolving realities of the wider world.