Over 200 young people from parishes across the Diocese of Aitape gathered for the annual Diocesan Youth Rally, held this year at the Aitape Pastoral Centre under the inspiring theme “Be Not Afraid!” (Matthew 14:27).
Three Days of Faith and Fun
Day 1: Gathering and Welcome
- Registration and icebreaker games
- Opening Mass celebrated by Bishop Siby Mathew
- Evening campfire with testimonies from young adults
Day 2: Formation and Activities
- Morning talk: “Overcoming Fear with Faith” by Fr. Luke Ambane
- Workshop groups: Prayer, Leadership, Music Ministry, Community Service
- Afternoon sports tournament (volleyball, soccer, athletics)
- Cultural night: Traditional dances and songs from different parishes
Day 3: Mission and Sending
- Reconciliation service and individual confessions
- Eucharistic adoration
- Closing Mass and commissioning ceremony
- “Go Forth!” — Each young person received a mission card with a personal challenge
Youth Testimonies
Anna, 17, from Lumi: “I was afraid to pray in public before. But after this rally, I know that Jesus is with me and I don’t need to be afraid anymore.”
James, 19, from Aitape: “The best part was the adoration. I felt God’s presence so strongly. I want to bring this experience back to my parish.”
Maria, 16, from Nuku: “I traveled two days to get here. It was worth every step. I made new friends and my faith is stronger.”
Bishop’s Message to the Youth
Bishop Siby Mathew encouraged the young people:
“You are not the future of the Church — you are the Church TODAY. Don’t wait until you are older to serve God and your community. Start now, start where you are, start with what you have.”
Upcoming Youth Events
- Monthly Youth Mass — First Saturday of every month at the Cathedral
- Youth Choir Practice — Every Wednesday evening
- Community Service Saturdays — Parish clean-up and elderly visitation
- Youth Bible Study — Every Friday evening
To join the diocesan youth group, contact your parish priest or the Diocesan Youth Coordinator.