Goa: The Second National Fransalian Youth Convention 2026 began on January 30 at the Pilar Pilgrims Centre, Pilar, bringing together young Fransalians from across the country for three days of prayer, reflection, faith formation and vocational discernment. Centred on the theme “Rise in Hope and Shine in Love,” the national gathering will continue until February 1, offering participants a space to reflect on their relationships, values and life choices.
The convention was formally inaugurated with the unveiling of its official logo by Fr. Johnson Kallidukil MSFS, Superior General of the Fransalian Congregation, who also delivered the opening address. Speaking candidly about the realities faced by today’s youth, Fr. Kallidukil invited participants to critically examine the nature of their relationships in an age dominated by digital connectivity but often marked by weak and fleeting personal bonds.
Drawing a clear distinction between casual contacts and meaningful relationships, he challenged the youth to reflect on their spiritual priorities. He posed a searching question: whether God remains only a name in their contact list or a living and guiding presence in their daily lives. Referring to the biblical account of David, Uriah and Bathsheba from the First Book of Samuel, he observed that David’s downfall began when he distanced himself from God, warning that misplaced connections and poor choices can gradually divert individuals from their true calling and shape their future negatively.
Linking Scripture to everyday life, Fr. Kallidukil also reflected on the Gospel parable of the seed and the soil. He emphasized that personal, moral and spiritual growth depends largely on the environment one chooses, noting that young people thrive when their lives are rooted in faith, sound values and supportive relationships that nurture their potential.
Sharing insights drawn from years of pastoral ministry, the Superior General spoke about the lasting damage caused by unhealthy relationships, addictions and self-destructive lifestyles. While many later recognise and regret their choices, he pointed out that the consequences often remain long after, highlighting the importance of early discernment, responsibility and wisdom in decision-making.
Calling on participants to live out the convention’s theme in practical ways, Fr. Kallidukil stressed that hope and love can only endure when anchored in a deep and consistent relationship with God. He encouraged the youth to become credible witnesses of faith within their families, parishes and communities, reminding them that integrity, character and values are as significant as academic or professional achievements.
The inaugural session was attended by several Fransalian leaders and youth animators, including Fr. Johnson Gonsalves MSFS, Provincial Superior of the MSFS Pune Province, and Fr. A. Christu Raj MSFS, General Secretary for Social Apostolate and Innovative Ministries. Also present were Fr. Denis Lemos MSFS, National Conference Animator, and Fr. John Barman MSFS, Associate Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Youth, along with group animators who are accompanying the youth through discussions and mentoring sessions during the convention.
Summing up the central message of the gathering, Fr. Kallidukil left the participants with a simple yet challenging reflection: “My connections will define my destiny.” With this call, the Fransalian Youth Convention opened as a meaningful journey for young people to reassess their relationships, deepen their faith commitments and move towards lives grounded in hope, love and responsible freedom.