By Sr Reshma Rosario FMA for BIS Mumbai

“Youth is for taking risks, good risks, risks full of hope. It is meant to be staked on great things. Youth is meant to be given away, to help others to know the Lord. Don’t keep your youth to yourselves: get out there!” — Pope Francis

The Diocese of Nashik celebrated International Youth Day for the Ahmednagar (Ahilyanagar) District with vibrant spirit and fervent joy on August 17, 2025 at Loyola Sadan, Shrirampur. The gathering was a true festival of faith, energy, and fellowship, graced by the presence of 186 spirited young people from across the district. Among them, the youth from Don Bosco Church, Savedi; St John’s Church, Bhingar; and St Anne’s Church, Ahmednagar were blessed to take an active part in this memorable celebration.

Accompanied by their devoted mentors—Fr Vishwas Pereira, Fr Richard Burkhao, Fr Nathaniel George, and Sr Reshma Rosario FMA—the youth embarked on a day rich in inspiration, prayer, and communion. The celebration began with a warm and gracious welcome by Fr Kishor Vidhate, Youth Director of the Nashik Diocese. Soon after, the hall resounded with joy as Fr Burkhao, along with youth volunteers from St Anne’s Church, led the participants in lively action songs. Their enthusiasm broke the ice and set the tone for a day of togetherness and joy in Christ.

At the very heart of the program was the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration at noon, presided over by His Lordship, Bishop Barthol Barretto, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nashik, and concelebrated by priests from across the Diocese. In his deeply moving homily, the Bishop urged the youth to embrace lives of faith, courage, and virtue, reminding them of their sacred calling to be radiant witnesses of Christ in today’s world. His words, both tender and challenging, rekindled in every heart the fire of unity and missionary zeal. Gratitude flowed abundantly as Fr Vidhate expressed heartfelt thanks to Bishop Barretto for his presence and blessings. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the organizing committee. After a shared lunch, the youth gathered for a thought-provoking session led by Fr George, who spoke on the theme “Youth, Media, Artificial Intelligence, and Mental Well-being.” With practical insights and relatable examples, he highlighted both the opportunities and the challenges of the digital world, encouraging the youth to cultivate balance, awareness, and resilience in the face of modern pressures.

The afternoon then blossomed into a time of joyful games and activities, animated by Fr Pereira, Fr Burkhao, and Fr George, with the cheerful support of the sisters and fellow priests. The grounds of Loyola Sadan echoed with laughter, teamwork, and friendship, weaving bonds that went beyond parishes and boundaries. As evening fell, the celebration concluded with a resounding call to unity and hope. For the youth, the day was more than just an event; it was an experience of Church, community, and mission. Enriched with memories of faith, friendship, and inspiration, they returned home renewed in spirit—ready to live their youth as a gift, a mission, and a testimony to Christ.