As communal tensions rise in India, particularly in the state of Manipur, young Christians are a source of hope for maintaining a secular culture where the religious rights of all are protected.
“Despite the hostility toward religion, we find faith and spirituality are growing stronger in our society,” said the Rev. Peter Kannampuzha of the Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church.
He aims to instill principles of care and goodness within the church’s young people, so their faith lives reach beyond the bounds of the classroom.
This idea is also at the forefront of formation programs for seminarians and novices in India.
“They are taught how to work among the people, to lead others and to build their own character and evangelical life,” said the Rev. Paul Pothanattuvelayil, rector of the Kolbe Ashram Seminary of the Conventual Franciscans in Millupady in the southern state of Kerala.
“We have come to know that our graduates are serving society to their utmost ability,” said Sister Dr. Reshma, novice mistress of the Sisters of Nazareth Manikkathan.
Hear from Father Kannampuzha, Father Pothanattuvelayil and Sister Reshma in this video. Then, read more about the work of the church to promote leadership and acts of service among its young people in “Persevering in Changing Times” in the March 2024 edition of ONE magazine.