Kochi: In a powerful address that blended faith, vision, and civic responsibility, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma urged young leaders to rise as “beacons of hope” and “builders of unity” during the silver jubilee celebrations of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) at the Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor.
Speaking before a vibrant assembly of over 3,500 youth leaders from across India, Sangma lauded the ICYM’s 25-year legacy in nurturing spiritually grounded and socially conscious leaders. “You have shown the world that faith and action are not separate paths but one journey of courage,” he said, acknowledging the ICYM’s contribution to forming a generation committed to service and integrity.
The Chief Minister described India’s youth as “warriors for solidarity”, capable of bridging divisions with compassion and creativity. “We live in times where challenges can either divide us or unite us,” he observed. “But it is in the crucible of hardship that true leadership is forged. Let every obstacle be an invitation to build bridges, not walls.”
Sangma, who is known for promoting youth-led governance and innovation in his state, urged participants to combine spiritual depth with social impact. He emphasized that hope is not a feeling but a daily decision one that transforms society through action. “Hope is not passive; it is a choice we make every day. Let your dreams be rooted in prayer, your actions guided by humility, and your mission anchored in courage,” he said, drawing sustained applause from the young audience.
Highlighting the influence of technology, Sangma cautioned that digital tools must serve as instruments of connection rather than division. “In this digital era, you have immense power,” he said. “Use your platforms not to spread fear or hate, but to amplify compassion, truth, and justice. Technology should bring hearts closer, not push them apart.”
The Chief Minister’s words resonated deeply in a gathering already animated by faith, music, and cultural performances marking ICYM’s jubilee milestone. His message, blending governance with Gospel-inspired values, reflected a rare synergy between civic duty and moral conviction.
As the conference drew to a close, Sangma’s appeal lingered as both a challenge and a blessing: “Go forth as change-makers men and women who dream with purpose, lead with humility, and serve with unity. The world awaits your light.”
The ICYM’s silver jubilee, hosted under the auspices of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Youth, concluded with renewed energy among participants, who pledged to carry the spirit of unity and service into their communities across the nation.