By Mr Mario Borges for BIS Mumbai

On July 20, 2025, Resurrection Church, Virar East, in Mumbai, celebrated the Youth Jubilee Year 2025 also known as the Parish Youth Day (PYD). The day began with a special mass which was celebrated by Fr Francis Fernandes at 9.00 a.m. in the Parish Hall attended by 51 enthusiastic youths, fostering a sense of community and spirituality.

 The concept of a Jubilee Year is deeply rooted in biblical tradition, originally marked as a time of redemption, forgiveness, and renewal. In contemporary terms, the Jubilee Year serves as an opportunity for a fresh start, inviting individuals to reflect on their lives and the community in which they live. The Youth Jubilee Year 2025 aimed to focus on young people, recognizing them as vital contributors to the Church and society at large.

 The celebration at Resurrection Church aimed to:

Empower Youth: One of the main goals was to empower young people to take active roles in their communities and the Church. Through various workshops and discussions, they were encouraged to voice their opinions, share their talents, and strengthen their faith.

Build Community: The event fostered a sense of belonging among the youth, reminding them that they are part of a larger family. Activities designed to nurture relationships included team-building exercises, group discussions, and communal prayers.

Promote Spiritual Growth: Guided by the teachings of the Church, the Youth Jubilee sought to provide opportunities for spiritual renewal through confession, reflection, and participation in the Holy Eucharist.

Inspire Service: The Church emphasized the importance of service to others. Various outreach programs were introduced, encouraging the youth to engage in community service initiatives that would have a positive impact on the local area.

Melrose, a parishioner, warmly welcomed one of our multi-talented, young and dynamic Salesian brothers of the Salesian Province of Bombay - Brother Bryce Fernandes, with a bouquet, setting a positive tone for the day. Brother Fernandes also shared the importance of love, friendships and relationships in today's digital world.

 The following are the highlights from his sharing -

In today’s interconnected world, the language of love has evolved dramatically, introducing new terms and concepts that shape our interactions. Words like "situationship," "ghosting," "soft launching," and "FOMO" reflect the nuances of modern relationships, highlighting both the innovations and challenges we face.

 The statistics on divorce rates and the prevalence of online dating expose a deeper quest for connection, belonging, and emotional intimacy among the youth. The neurobiological underpinnings, including the roles of dopamine and oxytocin, reveal how our brain's chemistry influences our behavior, making us crave instant gratification while simultaneously longing for deeper emotional bonds.

 As we delve into these intricate dynamics, we cannot overlook the mental, emotional, and spiritual struggles that accompany our digital interactions. The search for lasting connections often leads to feelings of loneliness and disconnection, especially when familial support systems falter.

In seeking belonging, many turn to digital platforms as a substitute for genuine connection. Yet, amid this search, we are reminded of a fundamental truth that transcends technology: the nature of divine love.

 Unlike fleeting interactions, God's love is not swipeable; it is patient, nurturing, and transformative. While human relationships can be complicated and imperfect, divine love offers wholeness and fulfillment that no social media can replicate.

 The program concluded at around 1:00 p.m., followed by lunch and games, including football, throwball, and cricket, with active participation from the youth. The Jubilee Year is often a time for renewal and reflection, and such celebrations provide a vibrant platform for the youth to connect with their faith and each other.