Youth Set Afire with Hope and Mission at STYM 2025 in Gojapara

Admin-ING July 14, 2025

The Summer Time Youth Ministry (STYM) 2025 at Don Bosco Parish, Gojapara, came to a spirited conclusion on 13th July after three days of faith-filled, energetic, and hope-inspiring activities. Held from 11th to 13th July, the event brought together over 150 youth from four centers, Gojapara, Hatigopa, Lemakona, and Borbakra along with Fathers, Sisters, Brothers, and Parish leaders.

The programme began on the evening of 11th July with the ceremonial hoisting of the STYM flag by Fr Arvind Kailash SDB, Youth Services (YS) Principal, in the presence of the participating youth and religious from the region. This was followed by the inaugural Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr Puma Philemon SDB, Assistant Parish Priest. A short inauguration programme took place in the parish hall, where Fr Arvind Kailash SDB addressed the youth with a powerful message on the theme “Youth: Pilgrims of Hope and Agents of Change”, urging them to cultivate hope and become instruments of transformation in today’s world.

The evening continued with lively group dynamics activities led by the animation team, followed by dinner, group formation, and night prayer. Ms. Belina Marak, the General Secretary, gave a briefing and led the participants into a peaceful close of the first day.

The second day commenced with morning prayer and meditation on “Christ’s Love” by Br. Antony. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr Arvind. The day was packed with enriching sessions on topics like Self-belief, The Holy Mass, Leadership and Career Guidance, and The Role of Youth in the Church facilitated by Br. Antony, Dn. John Nouning, Br. Dominic Soren, and Sr. Helena Momin.

Besides the spiritual and intellectual formation, fun and fellowship took center stage with a Quiz Competition based on the Gospel of John, football matches, tug-of-war, and inter-center games. New Parish Youth Leaders were also elected, ensuring continuity in youth animation. A special candle-lit Rosary Procession in the evening added a sacred touch to the day, followed by a vibrant Cultural Programme that celebrated the unity in diversity of the parish communities.

The final day opened with a time of Adoration and Confession led by Br. Antony Anakarla (INH), offering a moment of spiritual renewal. The concluding Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr Januarius Sangma SDB, Principal of Don Bosco College, Tura. In his homily, he exhorted the youth to grow deeper in their spiritual life and remain rooted in Gospel values.

The programme concluded with a Thanksgiving gathering, photo session, jam session, evaluation, and feedback. The youth expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Don Bosco Gojapara Community, the Sisters from Gojapara and Hatigopa, and the brothers and animators who made the programme a success.

Fr Puma officially brought the programme to a close by lowering the flag at 1:30 PM, declaring STYM 2025 concluded. The youth, full of enthusiasm and spiritual zeal, pledged to return in greater numbers next year, eager for yet another transformative experience.