Catholic Bishops' Conference of India

Church lends a helping hand to youngsters

14 July,2012

Kochi (timesofindia): To bring together its young faithful scattered across the world, the Syro-MalabarChurch is launching a programme aimed at the spiritual and social uplift of Gen-Y in the community. All dioceses under the Church will be involved in the project which is being implemented under the aegis of the Syro-Malabar Youth Apostolate.

According to the Church authorities, there are around 16 lakh youngsters, in the age group of 17-30, who are either working or studying in places away from their native places. Staying away from home, family and church,youngsters are reportedly losing their interest in spiritual matters, and are said to stray from the church.

The first phase includes collection of details of all youngsters studying or working outside their native places. Specially-prepared forms have been sent to all dioceses, churches outside the state, and also to mission centres. "The youngsters living outside the circle of their homes and church is an unorganized one, and we plan to bring them together," says Fr Sebastian Kaippanplackel, co-ordinator of the project.

The Church feels that the influence of the cyber world has lessened the grip of religion in these youngsters. The guidelines for the project will be submitted to the synod of bishops soon, and it is expected to begin in August this year.