Chandigarh: The Simla Chandigarh Diocesan Youth Commission (DEXCO) successfully hosted the Diocesan Youth Conference (DYC) 2025 from October 21 to 23 at St. Anne’s Convent School, Chandigarh, drawing young Catholics from deaneries across the diocese. With the theme of spiritual growth, mission, and collaboration, the three-day gathering became a vibrant platform for faith formation, leadership development, and communal bonding.
The conference commenced with the arrival and registration of participants, who were welcomed with kits, badges, and warm greetings from volunteers. A lively Deanery-wise March and Welcome Procession, adorned with flags, banners, and spirited chants, set an atmosphere of joy and fellowship. The Holy Mass, celebrated by the Chandigarh Deanery, inaugurated the spiritual dimension of the event, followed by a ceremonial lamp lighting and cultural presentations that highlighted the energy and creativity of the youth.
Interactive sessions led by the Bishop’s Team encouraged participants to embrace leadership roles within the Church and society, instilling motivation and vision from the very first day. Each morning began with Holy Mass animated by different deaneries, reflecting the diocese’s unity in diversity, and was complemented by moments of prayer, praise, and dynamic animation throughout the day.
Expert-led talks challenged the youth to live their faith boldly. Mr. Geo Boby’s “Faith in Action” invited participants to embody Christ in everyday life. Fr. Maria Antony’s “Digital Discipleship” explored responsible use of technology for evangelisation, while Fr. Powlish’s “Building Bridges” emphasised empathy, communication, and collaborative service among young believers.
Practical workshops, including Creative Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Mission in Motion, offered participants opportunities to apply their learning through teamwork and role-play. These sessions encouraged imaginative approaches to faith-based leadership and real-life Christian witness, fostering both skill and spiritual growth.
Evenings were marked by uplifting praise and reflection. A Gospel Band from Delhi filled the venue with joyous music, cultivating an atmosphere of unity and spiritual celebration. The Rosary Procession, led by the Patiala and Shimla Deaneries, created a serene candlelit prayer walk that deepened devotion and communal prayer.
On the final day, participants engaged in an Evaluation Session led by Ms. Maria Jyoti, sharing personal testimonies of faith renewal and spiritual transformation. A session by Fr. Wilfred of the Social Service Commission inspired the youth to convert their faith into tangible action, emphasizing community service as a vital expression of Christian discipleship.
The closing Thanksgiving Holy Mass, presided over by Bishop Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, celebrated the fellowship, inspiration, and success of DYC 2025. An Award Distribution Ceremony recognised outstanding contributions by deaneries and individuals, followed by the formal commissioning of participants to live their faith boldly in society.
As DYC 2025 concluded, participants departed with hearts aflame with faith, a renewed sense of purpose, and a commitment to be catalysts of love, service, and evangelisation within their communities. The conference stood as a testament to the diocese’s vibrant youth ministry and its vision of nurturing spiritually mature, socially responsible, and mission-oriented young Catholics.