Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Star-Gazing In: Cologne
Star-Gazing In: Cologne
Star-Gazing In: Cologne
MOVEMENT
AT THE SERVICE
WYD
OF THE CHURCH
WWW.JESUSYOUTH.ORG
S 2005
pec ial I s s ue
Star-gazing in
to follow the path of the great
pilgrimage that the Magi from the
East first pointed out to us. The
spontaneity of new communities
Cologne
is important, but it is also important
to preserve communion with the
Pope and with the Bishops. It is
they who guarantee that we are
not seeking private paths, but are
living as God’s great family,
founded by the Lord through the
twelve Apostles.”
1
and helped us find places to stay, and Msgr. Antony Kollamparampil
without whom our pilgrimage to Rome would not have been possible.
Yet another beautiful experience was the series of Rexband concerts prior
to WYD, in UK and in Germany. This tour afforded innumerable instances
of a typical Jesus Youth life style. The members of the Rexband risked
much, laying aside everything and getting a month off from their jobs so
that the Lord could be proclaimed through their music. One of them even
A new chapter of Church history was written when one had to resign his job – a good one too - leaving his future apparently bleak.
million youth of the world’s nations travelled with the And I saw the power of sacrifice, the witness of brotherhood and the efficacy
Church and for the Church, to gather around the Holy of prayer all through the tour, particularly in the way so many hearts were
Father and celebrate the World Youth Day in Cologne touched and transformed. The same can be said of the Jesus Youth of UK.
as a great festival in the honour of God. One can only wonder at the It’s been only a few years since Jesus Youth took root in UK. But what an
innumerable challenges faced and the unimaginable effort taken for an excellent job they did in organizing the concerts! Rexband was virtually
event of such magnitude. A huge team comprising the staff of the WYD unknown in England; nonetheless, they succeeded in gathering big crowds
office, church groups, associations and movements, dioceses and parishes through their commitment and painstaking efforts. Almost all the halls were
and around 20,000 volunteers had been working hard over the last three fully packed and most of the audience departed with an experience of the
years just to make those few days from 11-21 August pleasant and presence of the living God!
memorable! Several times, when neck-deep in work, bogged down by
mails and faced with dead ends, I’ve asked myself, “Is it really worth After following on the heels of the Magi to Cologne, the Jesus Youth
spending so much on a project like this? Will it be worth the while facing all contingent continued their pilgrimage through Taizé, Lourdes, Assisi and
the hurdles that keep emerging right from the moment we apply for the Rome. It was a time of great blessing with unforgettable moments like the
visas and as we move on to finances, tiresome journeys, long stretches of Masses we celebrated in the Basilicas of St. Peter and St. Paul in Rome
walking, unknown languages, alien cultures, unaccustomed weather and and that of St. Francis in Assisi. The highlight of this ‘Pilgrimage of Faith,’
food, etc.?” But when, at the YAI festival and WYD celebration, I experienced and undoubtedly one of the greatest blessings for me was being able to
the awesome beauty of worshipping the King of Kings along with youth attend the funeral service of a saint of our times – Br. Roger of Taizé.
from countries across the world speaking different tongues, when I
witnessed the joy of coming together as a family during the Jesus Youth And now here we are at the end of it all, with a new International team.
International Gathering, and when I jubilantly joined the thousands screaming Frankly speaking, I didn’t relish the idea of carrying on as
‘Benedicto’, at the welcome ceremony, I found myself saying, “Sydney the International coordinator for another term and I had been praying hard
2008, here I come!” to find a way out. However, I accept this responsibility with joy and
humility, knowing well that the coming years will be a really tough time
It was no joke getting things organized in a foreign country from this distant personally, but knowing better still that this is the will of God for me and for
corner of the world. Yet each time, God sent his angels to help us out. And our movement. We will be directing our efforts towards new outreaches,
often when we found the main doors shut in our faces, He caused new with a special focus on Asia and Africa, different leaders’ training
ones to open. The word ‘thanks’ cannot contain the gratitude that wells in programmes including the JY International full-timers training programme,
my heart when I think of people like Fr. John Kallarackal CMI, the Parish etc. Let us joyfully march ahead together deciphering our call and discerning
priest of Dormagen (the venue of our catecheses and accommodation the move of the Spirit!
during the JYIG and WYD), Joy Manikath and all the Malayalee families in
Cologne, Fr. Ignatius CMI and the Indian Parish Council in Cologne, the
Sisters of St. Joseph’s in Lourdes, Maura Cattani from RnS, Italy who visited Manoj Sunny
many parishes seeking permission to accommodate our pilgrims in Rome Jesus Youth International Co-ordinator
“The Lord is my Shepherd and I shall not “Each blessing at the World Youth
want.”(Psalm 23) Day has a tremendous impact on
our times. Quite by chance I
These are the words reverberating in my attended the WYD concluding Mass
mind after the Youth Arise Festival, Jesus with Pope John Paul in 1985 in Rome,
Youth International Gathering and the World which was then held within the
Youth Day. From the very inception of these premises of St. Peter’s Basilica. I
programmes I have seen and experienced realized its significance for me only
an unbroken litany of God’s blessings. when I came to know many years
later that 1985 was the year
dedicated to the Youth; the year
I have witnessed and experienced two miracles in which the Almighty
when Jesus Youth got it’s name.
made His presence felt during the preparations for these events. One was
When Manoj Sunny convinced me in
the accident in which Manoj, Henry, George and myself were involved,
2000 to attend WYD again in Rome, Pope John Paul had aged, but the
when we were traveling at a speed of 160 km on a busy highway. My car
youth were younger in age and more in number. When 2 million attended
was almost completely destroyed. However, all of us escaped without
the concluding Mass in 2000, I understood how the Lord had blessed this
even minor injuries. The second was the bright and pleasant weather God generation through the Pope. Throughout the following years and through
prepared for the days of the World Youth Day. The weather forecast, that WYD in Toronto, we as Jesus Youth have continued to understand the
seldom goes wrong, predicted a rainy day; but the day dawned bright and responsibility that the Lord is giving us to reach out with our culture and
clear! faith to the rest of the world.
Now, when I look back I feel that God has been sending apt persons I decided to get fully involved in the WYD project over the past 2 years,
whenever necessary. Without those right people in the right places, things certain that my involvement would come to an end with the WYD. It was a
would not have been so smooth and successful. There were difficult times, shock initially to be asked to join the new iteam as the Assistant Co-ordinator.
of course, but all through the preparation I could see light at the end of the But I soon realised like many others that Jesus Youth needs to be nurtured
tunnel. Truly everything went on well, because of His presence and so that it can be an effective instrument in the service of His Church.For the
first time I saw a possibility that one day many Jesus Youth would actually be
guidance. I bow my head before the Great Planner and CEO.
called ‘History Makers,’ something I’d known earlier only as lyrics of a song we
used to sing.
The recent past has proved that we are just instruments in the hands of
God. However unskilled and fragile we are, He is mighty. With Him everything I would like to thank the Lord for allowing me to assist in the organisation of
is possible! Praise the Lord. this Pilgrimage. We went to Cologne to worship Him. May we continue to do
so forever.”
Fr.Ajy Mooleparambil CMI
Fr.Ajy George Ettiyil
(Member, Jesus Youth International Team; (Asst. Co-ordinator, Jesus Youth International Team; General
General Convener Jesus Youth International Gathering) Co-ordinator, Jesus Youth International Gathering.)
2
WYD
2005
Special Iss
ue
“ The trip started in the heart. My heart people took over. Jesus Youth in disappointed, and had to satisfy truth, the deepest meaning of
was eager to see youth from different parts
of the world, as one among many, as one
particular switched over quickly to themselves listening in on the human existence’ and on the
in Christ. To experience Christ, with a “Guten tag” and “Guten morgen” proceedings, or if they were lucky, second by Most Rev. Blase J.
backpack for a cross on my back that and got by quite successfully, with watching everything on giant TV Cupich, Bishop of Rapid City, USA,
grew heavier with every step. At every
step thoughts of things that hurt most in
a mixture of English, Malayalam, screens. At times like this it appeared on ‘Meeting Christ in the Eucharist.’’
my life came to my mind. Even though smatterings of German and of as though Germany could not hold Each day the Catechesis was
they were small things, like the thorns of a course mime! the thousands that congregated for followed by the celebration of the
rose biting into my skin, it helped me to
look at the suffering of Christ for our
this biggest of Catholic gatherings Holy Eucharist. On one day there
on the globe. However, as one
salvation. Germany was an extraordinary
experience because it felt like Christ was Opening Mass pilgrim who was trying to fight her
was a special form of catechesis by
way of a pilgrimage to Cologne
by my side in everything. During the WYD The WYD activities began in the way through the crowds and make Cathedral and the shrine of the Magi
trip, Christ our Saviour healed the pain in
my shoulder and in my heart.” three German cities of Cologne, it onto a train to the arena said, “It on the theme, ‘Going on pilgrimage
Jeslyn Paulose Ellickal, a teenager, USA Düsseldorf and Bonn with doesn’t even matter whether we get with witnesses to the faith.’
contd. from page 1 !
simultaneous Masses, overflowing on the train in the end. The spirit of
crowds, waving flags and the unity, all of us standing here on the
evident at the catechesis sessions,
in the churches, during the Way of
energy of more than 200,000 young crowded platform, is worth every The Youth Festival
minute of it.” Bridging the World
the Cross, at the inaugural and
concluding Masses, and during the
Night Vigil, where young people in Catechesis
small groups or on their own could
Discovering a Deeper Faith
be seen praying, reciting the
Rosary, reading the Bible, Catecheses were offered on three
meditating, standing in line for days at various venues to guide and
confession, or simply sharing their invite the pilgrims to enter into a more
faith experience. profound relationship with Jesus
Christ. Jesus Youth was invited to
animate one of the Catecheses and
Touchdown people from countries all over the it was an added blessing when it
world. In Cologne, Archbishop One of the strengths of WYD is the
Stanislaw Rylko, President of the experience of new cultures,
Pontifical Council for the Laity countries and people that it offers
opened the proceedings with through music, performance art and
greetings in five languages. “You are other cultural events. Well known
entering on a great adventure, and bands from different nations
the main figure in the adventure is performed, thereby bridging the
you,” he said. Following the arrival world. Picnic concerts were given
of the World Youth Day cross in the on the banks of the Rhine, in city
German hospitality knew no bounds stadium, the service began with the parks, and other inner-city green
as hosts of families and numerous World Youth Day hymn, “We Have areas with a wide range of musical
Bishop Blase J. Cupich, Rapid City, USA performances, from classical to pop
private houses, schools and Come to Worship Him.” More than
government buildings opened wide an hour before the Masses were to happened to be the one attended music. Jesus Youth exulted when
their doors to welcome and gather begin, the entrances to some by its own members. The young people from across the world
the influx of young pilgrims to WYD. venues were closed as they were catecheses for Jesus Youth was led flocked in large numbers to
The barriers of language and culture already filled to overflowing. Many on the first day by His Eminence celebrate Jesus with Rexband as
were broken as the warmth of the pilgrims, including a good number Ivan Cardinal Dias from Mumbai, they performed for the opening
hospitality and the generosity of the of the Jesus Youth, were India, on the theme ‘Searching for concert at Burgplatz in Düsseldorf.
4
WYD
The Jesus Youth Inter national 1. What has God
done in your life
2005
Special Iss
ue
Gathering (JYIG) was held on 15th
and 16th August 2005 at St. Andreas through Jesus Youth? (Personal
Church of Kloster Knechtsteden in reflection)
Dormagen, Germany. With more 2. Where is the Spirit leading me
than 600 Jesus Youth participants through the Jesus Youth movement ?
which included teenagers, youth, (Group discussion)
singles, married couples, families
In the evening representatives of
with children, priests and nuns from
different countries made presentations
14 different countries (USA, UK,
A MISSIONARY describing the beginning, current
Australia, Singapore, UAE, Canada, MOVEMENT status, the future plans and dreams
Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Germany, AT THE SERVICE of Jesus Youth in their respective
Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Sri Lanka and OF THE CHURCH
countries. After Australia, India,
India), the JYIG was an enriching
Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka had
occasion that connected people
presented their reports, all the Jesus
from different backgrounds and
Youth from non-Indian origins were
cultures together as one great family.
Jesus Youth
International
Inauguration of Jesus Youth International
Gathering by Rev. Bishop Valerian D’Souza
Fulltime Volunteers’ Training this year Since this was also the inaugural day
at Emmaus, Kerala (India) - George, of the 20th World Youth Day, Manoj
John, Alphonsa and Mayrose. They Sunny brought the gathering to a
testified that responding to the close in the afternoon by speaking projects in their prayers. Gratitude
as a continuation from the previous Lord’s call had made a big about his dreams for the Jesus was extended to all who worked for
day. This time over, the questions difference in their lives. Santhosh Youth movement :- reaching out to the gathering, especially to Fr. Ajy
for discussion and reflection were Joseph, the pioneer who sparked new areas with a special focus on Mooleparambil (Germany) General
as follows: off the fulltimership project 14 years Africa; canonical recognition by the Convener, Jesus Youth International
1. Where is the Holy Spirit leading ago, spoke about how after his Holy See as an International Gathering and George Ettiyil (India)
me through Jesus Youth in my graduation the Lord had put the Association of the Lay Faithful; its General Co-ordinator.
personal life ? dream in his heart to offer one whole Leaders’ Formation, and the
2. Where is the Holy Spirit leading year to live and experience International Fulltimers’ Training As the Jesus Youth International
Jesus Youth ? missionary life. He urged the young programme planned for July – Gathering 2005 came to a close, a
people at the gathering to deeply August 2006 (either in Sri Lanka or prayer was made for the newly
After the discussion, personal
reflect on giving up one year for the Singapore). He also asked elected International team, as they
testimonies were shared by the four
Lord. everyone to remember these new began their ministry to guide this
young people who attended the
vibrant youth movement to the
Bobby Chacko, Australia
Kingdom of Heaven.
“I am really thankful to the Lord Almighty for the way He
“It was a big event for me as a Jesus Youth to attend the
has blessed the Jesus Youth movement and for the
JYIG. I got a chance to meet many personalities and role
international acceptance it has gained in a short period.
models of Jesus Youth from other countries of whom I
I was privileged to be part of its 2 nd International
had only heard of about earlier.” Julius Antony (UAE
(UAE)
Gathering.” - Vincent Fernandes (UAE)
Fr. James Anaparambil,India The new Jesus Youth International Team Saji Sebastian, USA
Animator , JYIT Software professional,
Dean of Seminarians, Animator of National Co-ordinator,
Professionals’ Ministry, Kerala Sunil Kumar Nadarajan, USA Jesus Youth USA
Engineer, National Team
C. C. Joseph, India Member, Jesus Youth USA
HR Consultant, Former National Raiju Varghese, India
Santhosh Mathew, UAE Co- ordinator, Jesus Youth India Lawyer, National Co- ordinator,
Engineer - Businessman, Jesus Youth, India
National Team member, Jesus
Manoj Sunny, India
Youth UAE
Co-ordinator , JYIT
Santhosh Joseph, Singapore Engineer, International Co-ordinator
CEO of a consulting company, for a second term
initiator of Fulltimers’ project
Fr. Sebastian Arikat, UK
Animator, JYIT
Also Animator, Jesus Youth UK
6
CELEBRATING rexband in europe
“
And when there were trials and still not know Jesus?
frustrations, the band only needed
to lift their hands in prayer for the From an email to Rexband by a 14 year old girl in
the music to make sense. Chesterfield, UK
“
and that every time the Lord has
Some might say my decision to go on this Rexband mission in Europe
Manchester to this historic Irish city. been faithful. They know that it is
was a costly one, as I had to forfeit my job at a time when my family was
And they are worried about the not music that matters, but the
struggling financially. Yet I realize that the cost is nothing compared to the
insufficient practice sessions. Even Maker. Sure enough, the Lord
joy of knowing that many hearts have received Jesus as their Lord and
“
as they kneel in prayer, the minds works powerfully during the
Saviour.
of many in the band turn to their concert. And during the prayer
Hector Lewis, Sharjah. Bassist & Vocalist, Rexband
families and kids back home. session midway through the
7
IMPRESSIONS SIX LESSONS THE
lives of many. People went from
EXPRESSIONS
door to door to mobilize for the
event, to invite people for the
BAND RE-LEARNT.
concert and to sell tickets.
“Performance as usual was an Eventually everything culminated in
invigorating experience especially a week of very successful eye-
through the encouraging cheers and popping spiritual extravaganza that
support of the crowds and my many described as – ‘out of
Right through this tour of Europe the band was reassured
friends. And the Lord worked this world’.”
about certain lessons that apply to every initiative of
wonders in every venue by Biju Thomas, Co-ordinator,
evangelization. Here are a few of them.
transforming the hearts of many.” Jesus Youth UK
Princy Varughese, USA.
Dancer & Vocalist, Rexband “I knew in my heart that bringing
1. JESUS WORKS ACROSS BOUNDARIES
Whether it is the 14-year-old from Chesterfield, the middle
Rexband to Liverpool and organizing
aged man from Manchester, the young boy from London or
“It was as if the Lord opened a new a good gathering of people would
the many young people across Germany, the band
chapter for the Rexband altogether. stretch our resources and energy
discovered in all of them an ardent yearning for Jesus.
The number of Indians in all beyond our imagination. Our
A yearning that luxurious lifestyles, access to pleasures and
audiences put together was less targeted crowd was 1200, a number
knowledge could not satisfy.
than other nationalities. Being not supported by any logic or past
brought up in Germany, I expected
people to be shocked by the way
2. MUSIC DOES MAKE SENSE
Rexband has consistently used styles of music that are
we introduced Jesus. Instead came
contemporary. But always with its signature style of fusion
many first time Jesus encounters
and in the context of a Rexband programme. Once again,
and transformations. For the
during the tour of Europe the brand grew in its conviction
preparation of WYD I had spoken
that music is a wonderful way to reach out to many young
about Jesus and prayed in the
people who would not have otherwise opened up to the
German language for the first time.
message of Jesus.
During the programmes in
Germany, I spoke words I had never
spoken before in German, and I
3. IT’S NOT WHAT WE DO BUT WHAT HE DOES
Though the band strives to give the Lord its best, this
realised the Holy Spirit’s power. This
was also a time to rediscover that sometimes,
when they are not able to give their best, the
experience! The days of
Lord works even better with the little they
mobilization brought immense joy
can give. Even during some programmes
and increased our faith in God. It
that the band thought had lacked in
helped us to reach out, as a
musical quality, the Lord often moved
ministry, to those individuals and
powerfully and
families otherwise impossible to
touched many hearts.
reach. It helped us to build a rapport
with English speaking parishes and
communities.Now thanks to the
4. WE ARE NOT ALONE
Sometimes when we live in the
Rexband and the mobilization
periphery of our movement,
network we have a lot of new prayer
our life situations and
tour again showed how important groups and contacts in many parts
our ministries, we can
every member is. Each individual of UK.”
feel lost in the hostile world
contribution deeply touches some Jose Mathew, UK
around us. For the band,
other person in the audience. For Member, JY International Team
the time at Youth Arise
some it’s the songs or Stephen’s
International and WYD 2005
keyboard solo, for others the “A magnificent band like Rexband
was a time of meeting
choreography and the skits, and for which is capable of influencing
similar ministries, bands, musicians
yet others the prayer. The young hearts by various means
and movements from around the world with
organizers gave everything they had should be brought to UK at any cost
diverse charisms and specific commitments.
and shared their time and homes – that was our initial dream. We took
A time of sharing, inspiring and being inspired.
with us. May God bless them small steps and God performed
A time of knowing that we are part of a great wave.
abundantly.” great miracles to make this dream
George Ettiyil, Rexband Vocalist & Asst.
Co-ordinator, JY International Team
a reality. Jesus Youth in UK moved
many steps forward after the
5. JESUS YOUTH LIFESTYLE MATTERS
Everywhere the band went, they were overwhelmed by
Rexband tour. The tour woke up the
the sacrifices of Jesus Youth who went through many
“The Rexband tour to the United hearts of many English and Asian
trials to use the opportunity of the Rexband concerts to
Kingdom was a remote vision that youth.”
reach out to those around. Many of them, still in the
came true through the prayers and Joseph Dasan,
process of trying to settle down in a new country, set aside
efforts of many, and was a major General Co-ordinator, much of their precious time and resources to ensure that
milestone and turning point in the Rexband tour of UK their friends discover Jesus. And their witness is as
powerful as the Rexband concerts themselves.
8
DESTINATION
CHRIST.
‘Roses in Winter’ was the album which established the
signature style of Rexband - a fusion of ethnic Indian and
contemporary pop elements. Rexband has recently
Rexband performing on the WYD stage followed it up with ‘Destination Christ’, the new album
IMPRESSIONS
Burgplatz, Dusseldorf that was released in UK in the summer of 2005. Alphons
Joseph and Stephen Devassy are the two virtuoso
EXPRESSIONS musicians of the band who have played a significant role
in evolving, defining and shaping the signature
Thank you very sound of the band, including the tracks in
“’Thank you, Rexband’ we say to the new album. Alphons is today a
much - Danke your great performances in
Schön! On respected music director in films and
Schermbeck and Essen in August has already scored music for four
August 10th, 2005 2005. We – belonging to the grand
around midnight, movies. The JY Newsletter team
parents’ generation caught up with Alphons in the
the members of – were very much
Rexband came to Rexband Studio to quiz him on the
affected by your project.
us to the parish instrumental
of Schermbeck. In the evening your music, your songs,
star arose for us during the concert NT: Is ‘Destination Christ’ in some way a
and your sharings progression from ‘Roses in Winter’?
in the church of St. Ludgerus. The between the different songs. What
spirit of happiness and zest for life, In a way, yes. At the time when we
we admired most was your ability recorded Roses in Winter, the Lord was
the virtuosity of your music and to form all different types of your
your faith in God surprised and just leading us to the ethnic style of
music to an integrated whole. music that has kind of become our
fascinated us. With you we have Gisbert Passmann
seen His star arise and we came signature.
Chairman, Youth Arise Foundation, Germany
with you to worship him. May God We were just
bless your belief, your hopes and finding our
“Why should I, bearings in
your love. gray-haired
Fr. Franz Gerd Stennecken, Pastor, our lives and in
grandfather of our spirituality.
St.Ludgerus Parish Schermbeck more than 65 From ‘We who
years, who like stumbled in darkness
“ Earlier I had only heard of Jesus the music of
Youth & Rexband. Only when I have now found a great
Bach, Handel and light’ (Roses in Winter) we
hosted them in my parish for the Messiaens go to a concert of Rex-
Rexband concert and the Jesus have tried to move ahead; ‘we
Band, a band of rocky poppy are a journey people
Youth International Gathering did I modern young musicians? destination Christ’. And this
theme of ‘journey people’
nicely fits into the theme of WYD
2005 and the journey of the Magi.
And as the current trends in the
world of music are reflected in the
album, the progression is also
definitely musical.
DESTINATION
are indeed a
“I could see that the participants
powerful way to
enjoyed the music very much. All
witness to the word
CHRIST.
of them unanimously said the band
of life. When the
was superb and powerful!!! They
members used their
talents to glorify God, it became a
moving experience. The fusion of
Eastern and Western streams of NT: What about the musicians who have
music and dance was truly a feast collaborated in this project?
for the eyes, ears and the heart. Interestingly, some of the most sought after musicians in
Representing the Indian Catholic India – over a dozen musicians and technicians- have
Church in Cologne, we were gladly collaborated with us on the album. And many of
delighted to host the first Rexband them like Naveen who is one of the leading exponents of
concert in Germany.” wind instruments in the film music industry or Amal Raj, a
Joy Manikath, Germany brilliant musician, are also people of strong faith. For us,
Friend & well-wisher of Jesus Youth the Rexband, it is part of our ministry to also collaborate
with musicians in the secular field and thus reach out to
“Went with our parish priest & the larger community of musicians. Most of them
Anointing prayer before the concert friends to the Liverpool show last gladly join in prayer and request us to pray for
night. Thank you for the gift of your them too. Very often it gives musicians a
said that they could really feel the different experience than working in a highly
power of Holy Spirit during the From a theatrical presentation commercial atmosphere.
programme. What they enjoyed
most was the ‘Silent Cry’ of the NT: Are some of the tracks in Rexband albums
unborn baby and the power of too contemporary for a gospel band?
prayer. The whole performance (Smiles) I work in the film music
lifted the audience up to experience industry and I always try to stay
the outpouring of the Spirit and pray updated on styles and trends in the
from the heart. After the field of music. And we in the Rexband
performance, people came forward believe that as Christian musicians, we
to meet and greet the members of too need to keep pace to stay
the band with great enthusiasm. relevant to the younger generation.
The tour of Rexband put a fire and Besides, though Rexband ministers
deep enthusiasm among Jesus in worship within Christian
Youth of UK. One young man told youth groups, the
me that after travelling with primary ministry of
Rexband he has become a new the band is to
Spirit-filled selves! A wonderful jaw-
person.” reach out to
dropping spine-tingling evening
Fr. Sebastian Arikat, UK young people
brimming with shared JOY! What
Animator, JY International Team who are outside
an ear-opener, eye-opener and
heart-opener! It made me feel that the mainstream
“I am so thankful to all you Rexband of organized
once the link with our dear Father in
members. Your testimonies have groups and
heaven is lived for real, we can be
Preparing to go onstage truly brothers & sisters on this little churches. And we
planet and the scale of things and have found, especially
all our differences are of little during our recent tour,
significance! We can be simply one that when the music
Person! By this music He says, Be relates to their tastes,
Me. Please think of Manchester young people often open up
when you come to England again! to deeper aspects of faith.
Excerpt from an e-mail to Rexband
from Manchester NT: What prompts musicians like you to
set aside time and resources to work on
“I was one of the members of the this album? Any specific struggles during this
inspired many young people here. project?
audience at 7th August 2005, at
Whenever I see the youth and Personally, my talent was shaped and
Southall Community Centre. I was
children in my parish who attended moulded during my early years of music
very suprised by your performance
the Rexband programme, ….they ministry in the Jesus Youth. And only
and I am only 14 yrs old. I think my
start singing, ‘Yes Lord’…….with much later did the Lord make this talent
belief in God and in Jesus is now
the actions...” my profession. So I am always clear in
even greater. Thank you!”
Excerpt from an e-mail to Rexband that my first priority in music is for the
I remember an incident during the work of the Lord. Recently, soon after
from London
Düsseldorf Rexband concert. I saw my wife’s conception I had to leave for
a 24 year old girl – she was raising Chennai for nearly three weeks for the
her hands and praying at the end of arrangement and orchestration of the album.
the concert. Six months back I had Though it was difficult for us, the Lord took
quarelled and debated with her as extra care of her and we were both able to go on
she argued for the cause of the Rexband tour and even
abortion, against the Catholic stay for the night vigil at Marienfeld.
Church and against the Pope. But
at last she was touched and she
prayed. It is truly unforgettable.“
Fr. Ajy Mooleparambil,, Germany
The band in a lighter moment
Asst. Parish Priest, St.Ludgerus Parish.
Member, JY International Team
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Diverse movements.
One Destination. A journey through the heart of
Youth Arise International Festival, Essen
Way back in AD 800, Bishop movements and organizations with the power of Christ at work in the Manoj Sunny, the Jesus Youth
Liudger of Munster laid the different charisms and ministries. universal Church. The pilgrims of the International Co-ordinator and an
foundations for a Benedictine Jesus Youth who were predominantly Executive Director of YAI, was one
monastery in the little town of Essen. For Jesus Youth, the largest group from Asia-Oceania, USA, Middle of the Programme Co-ordinators of
Later, this became the site for the after the Italians, this was a unique East and Europe, actively the festival. George Ettiyil, the
Romanesque Basilica of St. opportunity to discover how the participated in the liturgical Assistant International Co-ordinator
Ludgerus around which Essen Spirit works through different celebrations, gave testimonies, led of Jesus Youth was the stage
developed into a sprawling city. movements among different discussions and spent time in manager of the event. Rev. Fr. Ajy
cultures. It was also a platform for sharing about the Lord’s work. Dr. Jacob, an Inter national Team
Jesus Youth to share the beauty and Abraham Mathew, a renowned member of Jesus Youth was in
unique charisms of their movement Jesus Youth leader from the US charge of the liturgy of the festival.
with others. It was a time to inspire presented a different perspective
and be inspired, a time to build new of the WYD theme for the
networks, a time to forge new participants as he led them through
bonds, a time to learn new lessons, the unseen aspects of the journey
a time to reach out far beyond of the Magi.
boundaries, a time to set aside
prejudices, and a time to experience This year, Jesus Youth worked very
Henry Cappello, President, YAI closely with Youth Arise International
in the organization and programme
Almost 1200 years later, in the development of the festival in Essen.
Salvatore Martinez, President, RnS Italy
summer of August 2005, this city
with its rich Christian heritage “Wow! For the first time, I got to see the Rexband. They made me happy to be a JY. Their
became the meeting place of over constant reliance upon God and the way they shared their message - it just flowed ! There
2000 young pilgrims from across 26 was this other group – when they sang ‘Beautiful One’, it blew me away. Salvatore
Martinez’s message was amazing. So was Bishop Valerian D’Souza’s explanation
countries around the world. These
of the Mass. He also plays the guitar- how awesome is that! The manner in which
young pilgrims came together in the they conducted the adoration was so powerful. So many healings....it was simply
breathtaking Grugahalle at Essen, amazing. The Praise night was sooooooo much fun! The music was amazing and
representing Spirit-filled Catholic the skits powerful”
Bishop Valerian D’Souza of Pune, India Jaisy Joseph, USA. JY Participant, YAI Festival 2005, Essen
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The festival brought together some
of the most inspiring and Spirit filled
leaders and speakers from across
the world. Henry Cappello, the
President of YAI opened the Festival
with his message that pointed
towards the richness and beauty of
coming together from around the
world to worship Christ. Fr. Tom
Forrest, erstwhile President of
Evangelisation 2000 brought the
audience alive with his fist-thumping
proclamation of the incomparable
power of Jesus and the privilege
of worshipping Him. Salvatore
Martinez, through his poetic
imagery and probing thoughts led
“Youth Arise Festival was one of the lively and happening events of the ‘Pilgrimage of Faith
2005.’ The praise and worship sessions were my favorite, which showed how vibrant the
Catholic Church is. Standing amid thousands of Catholics, who were in their 30s or
younger, I saw how big our Church is and how vast God is and that we are really
universal. The guest speakers including Bishops and priests had inspirational
messages for young people. I have never felt closer to God than I did sitting there in
adoration. So many young people came to embrace and welcome our Holy Father into our
Church and into our lives.”
- Milan Chacko, Australia. JY Participant, YAI Festival 2005, Essen.
Henry Cappello introduces the YAI Council “We adore you Lord Jesus Christ.”
“YAI gave me an opportunity to interact with youth from different countries and
cultures and imparted the strong feeling of oneness in Christ irrespective of
differences in external matters. It also helped us to be more humble as we shared
the common living facilities. It is also to be commented that in spite of inconveniences,
all of us, especially those with small children were extremely joyful in the Lord and
able to express it freely. Also the key role played by Jesus Youth in the programme
made me more aware of our potential in the international scenario.”
C.J. James, Kuwait. JY Participant, YAI Festival 2005, Essen.
Jesus Youth presents Classical and folk dances of India
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WYD
2005
Special Iss
ue
13
Check out
http://www.jesusyouth.org/e_library.htm
For the information of those who
participated in the Pilgrimage of Faith ’05
and for those who plan to go on a pilgrimage
to Rome, a detailed account of the pilgrim
sites in Rome has been prepared by Msgr.
Antony Kollamparambil and uploaded
to the Jesus Youth website.
this interior journey we can be “Interacting with various youth movements and Next on the pilgrim itinerary was
groups opened my eyes to the universality and As the “Pilgrimage of Faith” came to
guided by the many signs with Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis
vibrancy of the Catholic Church. As we entered a close, each of the pilgrims was
which a long and rich Christian the chapel at Lourdes reciting the rosary, the and St. Clare. Josena Katathara
tradition has indelibly marked this relevance of Jesus Youth dawned on me more from the US summarized her revived by a time of learning and
land...from great historical
powerfully than ever. I also realised that much
pilgrimage experience at Assisi thus: renewed through a deepening in
more needs to be done to be a true missionary
monuments to countless works of movement at the service of the Church.” “I was dumbfounded at the beautiful faith. Bobby Chacko of Australia
art… from documents preserved in Dr. Kochurani Joseph,
sight of St. Francis Basilica situated aptly sums up the whole experience:
Vice President, Catholic Council of India
libraries to lively popular traditions, on a hilltop. I felt the presence of “The pilgrimage was a turning point
from philosophical inquiry to the “Pilgrimage of Faith was a most singular
St. Francis in the nature around us. for me. It was really the experience
experience in our life. Kneeling down before
theological reflection of many great Peter’s throne at the main altar of St. Peter’s In the museum housing the relics of of a lifetime to be so closely exposed
thinkers, from the spiritual traditions Basilica we thanked our Lord for making us a St. Francis located in the basement to God and His Kingdom and to be
part of Catholic Church. We asked pardon for all
to the mystical experience of a vast the dark spots in the bridal garment of the of the Basilica we saw his tunics, his in His presence everywhere we
array of Saints.” Awe struck by the Catholic Church caused by our sins, and pledged slippers, the stone he used as a went.”
our fervent allegiance to the Church.”
Shimmy and Jeena, India
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WYD
Source of “Christ Jesus inner Light, enable me to
2005
Special Iss
ue
Br. Roger, the founder of the Cologne were blessed by the blows where it wills. At Taizé I have Br. Alois, the new Prior of Taizé
renowned ecumenical Christian opportunity to meditate close by Br. always found this to be true,
community of Taizé, France, entered Roger’s body that was placed in the especially of this man of God, so Br. Roger was in Chennai, India, for
the life of eternity on 16th August Church of Reconciliation and to spontaneous, brimming with the intercontinental meeting “The
2005, aged 90. As news of the violent participate in the funeral service held thoughts of God, beautiful plans and Pilgrimage of Trust on Earth” held
death suffered by this beloved friend on 23rd August 2005. The message ideas, with numerous dreams and there in 1988. His time there was
of Pope John Paul II came in, many of peace and forgiveness conveyed visionary projects, and joyful mostly spent in a hut, in a slum. He
Jesus Youth were filled with disbelief during the funeral ceremony was expressions of love and kindness. was most joyful in the company of
and grief. The Jesus Youth true to the spirit of Taizé and its My joy knew no bounds when on hordes of children who clung to him.
movement shares a deep-rooted determination to remain a sign of Maundy Thursday Br. Roger The time there in the company of
relationship with the Taizé reconciliation amidst violence. washed my feet during the Br. Roger is still fresh in my mind. If
community. Every year a few Jesus Passover ceremony. anyone wonders why youth loved
Dr. Edward Edezhath, one of the
Youth leaders visit the community founders of the Jesus Youth him so much, they only need to read
and live there for some months. Br. movement spoke of the ties that bind his letters. For they reveal that he
Roger’s passion for reconciliation him to Taizé and it’s founder : shared and experienced all the
has set many Jesus Youth on fire, doubts and confusion that plague
inspiring them to be missionaries of “My first encounter with this great
youth everywhere, the only
an “inner life and human solidarity” visionary was in the year 1988. The
2 months I spent in the community difference being the strong hope
amidst the challenges of a giving presence of Christ in his life
secularized and fragmented world. was an experience that transformed
me. I shared many a meal with that changed this strange mix of light
Br. Roger and had many opportunities and darkness, transforming it into a
A group of 300 Jesus Youth pilgrims
to speak with the brothers. The Spirit lovely canvas of eternity.”
on their way back from the WYD in Floral tributes on Br. Roger’s grave
gone out in all to serve the Lord in His Vineyard. Two training programmes “During my forty days in Emmaus I was blessed
were held this year. One at Emmaus, Kochi, Kerala in English, and the other not only to gain new brothers and sisters, but to
at Don Bosco Training Institute, Okhla, Delhi in Hindi. Altogether there were give my life completely to Christ as well. Once I did
this, the Lord strengthened my faith and deepened
53 boys including 3 seminarians and 32 girls from various parts of India my relationship with Him.”
and 3 from abroad - 1 from Australia and 2 from USA. This year for the first John Joseph
Joseph, USA
Nathente Kude
It was a great occasion for the Jesus O Mary, vessel of
Youth of Abu Dhabi when around singular devotion,
700 youth gathered in St. Joseph’s on seeing the infant
Catholic Church on 9th August to Jesus with you,
celebrate the one day seminar - the Magi fell down
Nathante Kude (With Jesus). During and worshipped Him.
Bishop Paul Hinder of the Vicariate of Arabia Pray for us, that in the
the programme inaugurated by Fr. Mass. His Excellency Bishop Paul
Antony, Pastor, JY Abu Dhabi, Vinod Hinder of the Vicariate of Arabia introduction to Jesus Youth. After a skit sacred Host we may
by the audio-visual ministry and a recognize and adore
John gave a teaching on the Word dropped by unexpectedly during the His presence in our
of God, Joy Babu made a video programme. He shared his insights Eucharistic adoration led by Mathews
midst. Amen.
presentation on Eucharistic miracles. regarding the WYD. Joy K.P., K.G., the programme ended with Mass
Fr. Kuriakose gave a talk on the Holy Coordinator, JY Abu Dhabi gave an at 3 pm in the Church.
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“Personally, I never really had a great
connection with the most Holy Sacrament, the “I’m really impressed
Eucharist. I was always told that the Eucharist by the Christian
was Jesus, but I considered it mere conviction and
symbolism. During the adoration led by the commitment that I
Pope in Marienfield, I saw him kneeling in could find in the
front of the Holy Sacrament during the members of Jesus
benediction along with the million youth from Youth, which is
around the world. As I saw this, my attitude nurtured by the spirit
before the Eucharist was changed forever. I and experience of personal prayer. Its
now see the Holy of Holies in the Eucharist orientation and vision as a Catholic Youth
and treat it as the richest treasure on the face movement greatly coincides with my
of the earth. As Catholics we should all cherish understanding of a youth association in the
the Eucharist. It is the greatest gift that we can Catholic Church. As a relatively young
ever receive.” - Abin Kuriakose, USA movement, it is still on the search to define
its identity and mission. In this process, I
feel that Jesus Youth should discover its
Christocentric and ecclesial dimension
and arrive at a clarity about its specific
role and mission, especially in relation to
similar ecclesial and youth movements in
the Catholic Church.”
Thousands of tiny photographs of young people form this larger than life
mosaic of Pope John Paul II outside Cologne Cathedral taking with them many personal
impressions “in the baggage of their
contd. from page 4 ! “ ‘I have looked for you. Now you have “One of the most wonderful experiences I hearts.” WYD is undoubtedly a gift
come to me’ Pope John Paul II. This is the had at World Youth Day was staying with
His Holiness recommended two call that still gathers youth from all around a German host family. They were so of God that has afforded
fundamental texts – the Catechism the world in hundreds of thousands, welcoming, warm and generous. Although innumerable youngsters with
crossing the seas and mountains to come they weren’t always praying or talking experiences that have enriched their
of the Catholic Church and the together and sing, shout and praise their about God, they showed us an amazing,
Compendium of the Catechism. His Creator. At Marienfield with nothing for endless love. Now I know what is meant faith and their lives through several
words struck a chord in the hearts shelter but the night sky and being one in by the saying ‘And they’ll know we are encounters – with Christ, with the Holy
the million spending the night in vigil Christians by our love.’ I pray that God Father, with other youth and with
of Jesus Youth when he said, “Form with the Pope was an unforgettable may reward them tenfold for all the good
communities based on faith! experience.” -Yujin Koola, UAE things they did for us.” Nita Abraham, USA people from the host country. May
...continue together to follow the path the many contacts and partnerships
of the great pilgrimage that the Magi formed during WYD endure, and
from the East first pointed out to us.” may this experience of the Universal
Church enable us to be witnesses
of the joy of Christ, the star that we
Auf Wiedersehen follow.
As this ‘festival of faith’ drew to a Beena Manoj
Printed and Published by Mr. Manoj Sunny on behalf of Jesus Youth International Office, 6F Thadikaran Centre, Palarivattom P.O., Cochin – 682 025, Kerala, INDIA
Ph: +91 484- 3095859, Fax: +91- 484- 2346084, Email : jyglobal@jesusyouth.org Website : www.jesusyouth.org
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