Campus Ministry - Jesus Youth Mumbai

X-MAS RINGTONE - Invitation

2008-12-18T21:00:00.000+05:30

Dear Friend in Jesus,

As Christmas is approaching and we are preparing and waiting for our Lord, Jesus Youth Campus ministry comes up with a Christmas program X-MAS RING TONE on 21st December at St Mary's School in Juhu Versova from 9 to 4.30. Mass will be there from 2:30 to 3:30.

We are really thanking GOD that we are able to start 5 new campus prayer groups after the program.We expect to make them more active and start new prayer groups in campuses and regional level for the students in various parts of Mumbai. We are trying to give some nurturing to the big task of building the kingdom of GOD in campuses which was started through CAMPUS 08.

So we cordially invite all of you to this program and try to bring as many friends from campuses, work places and parishes to the program.Remember the program in prayers. Also the Monthly Fellowship will be held on the same venue from 3 to 6.

With Prayers in Christ,

-- Campus Team

Mobilisation @ Kalina, Unbelievably True Story

2008-11-13T11:54:00.001+05:30

This is our story for Mobilisation of CAMP-U-S '08 in Kalina - The most memorable event I can remember in Year 2008!

Hello All,

Kalina Mobilization was a wonderful experience! Since long there was a desire among all of us to share the LOVE of JESUS with our own brothers and sisters in our parish. There was a concern as to HOW we could reach out to so many youth? There why nothing was just happening here. No Prayer group... Also the concept of a retreat will make them run away from us ... Why the youth of our church were so unknown to this wonderful experience of the LORD...?

But now I realize the LORD had HIS own time... He had HIS own ways which were so unclear to us... What best event than the CAMP-U-S '08 could the LORD give us to turn our dreams into reality!!

"And as you wait upon the LORD you shall rise up like an eagle..." This is what Our Mighty GOD has done.

Even as we knew in our hearts that we have to get the youth of our parish... we knew the many obstacles we had and also our own weaknesses. Even getting a single youth was like searching for stream in a desert. But PRAISE GOD we were able to get around 20 youth who attended the program!!! A big number indeed considering the ignorance they had!

I could clearly feel the presence of our ALMIGHTY GOD in everything we did. I must say what tremendous prayers have gone into this event; the fruit of which we experienced. The WAY for us was already prepared we just had to walk on it.

"The vineyard was full... only the laborers had to say a YES"

I must say it was a cake walk. But when we actually started with it, everything was so vague. It was last minute work, like we mostly do before our exams. We prepare well just in the last days. But as we started off, slowly by slowly things started happening. The LORD was only looking at our willingness more than our focus on getting the children... coz HIS work was already done. He had sowed the seed; we had to reap the fruits.

As we all were busy with our work schedules, only time we could get was the evening time. Knowing our weakness, the LORD gave us Princy, who most willingly coordinated all at the activities. She was a real blessing to the mobilization. Even as we sat in office worried about how we would work out things, Princy was always there. She was just a phone call away. She took up all the task with utmost responsibility.

Then God gave us Sabin, who got personal experience of JESUS in VISION '08. He was a first timer there though it was a growth retreat for people who were there for some time now and were committed for CAMPUS '08, and the LORD touched him there; as I believe the LORD wanted to use him for Kalina Mobilization... He was like a brand ambassador for the mobilization I must say :-) When ever he went, elders were surprised at the change in HIS life. Probably that’s how they could relate to in the lives of their children. If He can then why cant my son or daughter? He was a strong instrument the LORD used. LORD tapped the right person at the right time and the rest followed. I could see the youth of our church could relate more with the change in HIS life and feel the difference.

Also as we thought of how we could put up dance performance, the Lord gave us most talented performers Nicelin chechi and Joselin from our PARISH to carry out the task; who willingly accepted the call!!

Parents and elders also were very supportive.

Not to forget our Priest and sisters who gave their full support and prayers in the mobilization.

Every house we went we were warmly welcomed. Also at some places the LORD made us confess our Faith. All throughout the journey THE MIGHTY GOD was with US as HE had heard us say a YES to HIM and so HE would not give up on us.

THANK YOU JESUS for making it happen in Kalina again!!!

Please keep all of us in your prayers for greater anointing in our lives... to walk His way!

-- Anna Mathew

CAMP-U-S '08 - A Report

2008-11-06T15:37:00.005+05:30

CAMP-U-S '08 Album

In the history of JY Mumbai, the first ever Campus Meet "CAMP-U-S '08" took place from 24th evening to 27th with the blessings of the Bishops of Kalyan, Bombay, Vasai and Nagpur at St. Mary’s High School, MHADA, Juhu Versova, Andheri (W), Mumbai.

Day Zero (24th)

The event was inaugurated with lighting of the lamp by Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Francis Eluvathingal (JY Mumbai Spiritual Director), Rev. Fr. Jaison Kollanur (JY Mumbai Asst. Director), Sr. Serena, and Mrs. Soney Noble (JY Mumbai Animators). This session ended with the Consecration of CAMP-U-S '08 into the Immaculate Heart of Mother Mary.

After the inauguration, the program started with some lively songs from the Music Ministry followed by a keynote by Rev. Dr. Francis Eluvathingal. Then the team from JOYFUL NOISE led a time of ice-breaking with a few games followed by DJ with Hip-hop Christian songs to sign-off for the day.

Day One (25th)

The next day started with 170 participants and 80 volunteers from around sixty campuses of Mumbai celebrating life with a time of praise and worship. Bro. Elvis Kottooran gave powerful sessions about the loving presence of God in our life. Later he led the participants through the adoration, surrendering their life completely into the Lord's hands.

The day was graced by Rt. Rev. Dr. Agnello Gracious, the Aux Bishop of Bombay who celebrated the Holy Mass along with Fr. Francis Eluvathingal and Fr. Sheen Chittatukara (The In-Charge of St. Mary's School). On the same day evening, we had the esteemed presence of Rt. Rev. Thomas Dabre, the Bishop of Vasai, who motivated the youngsters to "Arise, Shine Out".

The same evening saw some great performances from the Audio Visual, Dance and Music Ministries encouraging the youth to use their talents for the glory of the Lord. Fr. Antony, the Assistant Youth Director Mumbai Archdiocese motivated the youth with his cheerful words of appreciation and blessings.

Day Two (26th)

On 26th morning, the participants began to feel the vibe of CAMP-U-S '08. The day, focused on looking into oneself, was wonderfully led by Bro. Fritz Mascarenhas. Through his beautiful sharing and his testimonies, he transformed the life of many youth present there. He explained the values of life, role of sin in separation of man from God and the purpose of living for the Kingdom of God. Participants and volunteers had a good confession, followed by Inner-Healing Adoration which touched many hearts. The day ended with the Eucharistic Celebration by Rev Dr. Francis Eluvathingal.

Day Three (27th)

The final day was filled with colors of joyful praise and worship, talks on Evangelization and Holy Spirit by Bro. Jose Sebastian. He rocked the crowd by leading them through a time of prayer and praise. He made them dream loud for the campuses of Mumbai and dared to live a life witnessing Christ. Later Rev. Dr. Francis Eluvathingal led a wonderful panel sharing on Six Pillars of Jesus Youth through the personal experiences of our volunteers, challenging the youngsters to live a lifestyle witnessing Christ. A presentation on Jesus Youth was given by JY International Full-timers Stenson Johny and Livin Varghese. The final occasion was graced by Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Viruthukulangara (Archbishop of Nagpur). Archbishop celebrated the Holy Mass and commissioned the participants and volunteers to evangelize filled with the power of the Holy Spirit.

A new Campus Team consisting of 17 members was formed and commissioned by Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Viruthukulangara, Fr. Francis Eluvathingal and Fr. Sheen Chittatukara.

-- Prepared by Arun Jose, IIT Bombay

A CAMP-U-S '08 Backstage Experience

2008-11-05T09:39:00.002+05:30

I had referred a person to CAMP-U-S '08. He was actually in full spirits on DAY 0, with all the music and games. Later on, when the sessions started, he started to feel the heat on DAY 1 and was very restless from then on. On DAY 2, at tea time (actually, RASNA Time) in the afternoon, he came to me and started complaining, "It was because of you, I am stuck up here. I could have been enjoying somewhere else, at this moment. You said it was a camp and now you put me into this retreat. I am not able to go out for a smoke even" and so on.

I don't know how I kept mum. I could do nothing but recite the Rosary. Something inside kept comforting me, that at the end of DAY 3, he will come to me and say "THANK YOU".

At the place where RASNA was being served, all the volunteers were reciting the Rosary. Listening to the Rosary, he became much more impatient to get out of CAMP-U-S '08 as soon as possible.

As he was complaining so much, I took him to a place where we could be alone, so that no one heard him. He kept on cribbing with all his heart and might. At one point he said, "What am I doing here? I even lost my mobile while coming here; else I could have at least enjoyed playing or talking on the phone." (Actually when he reached St. Mary’s School on DAY 0 for the CAMP-U-S '08, just as he got out of the rickshaw, his mobile popped from his pocket and dropped into the rickshaw and the rickshaw driver not noticing it, left.) When he said this I just happily looked to the heavens and said, "Lord, you do have a great plan for him."

And then I asked if we can go inside the chapel for the session. He said, "Ya, any ways there is no other option left." And then we left for the chapel.

On DAY 3, after all the sessions were over, and we were ready to leave, this friend of mine came to me and said, "Thanks for bringing me here." I smiled and asked him, "Is that a positive or a negative remark?" He said, "Of course it's a positive one." I thanked the Lord with all my heart. You know what? He even went for a counseling session with Jose Chettan. He left the place only at around 10:30 or 11:00 pm.

So, please pray for him and all those who have gone through a similar experience in CAMP-U-S '08, so that they may keep this experience in their heart and keep their faith rooted in Jesus. Actually now I know, what it means to be "HOT or COLD" in heart and not to be "Lukewarm".

Praise the LORD!!!

-- Joseph Thanickal

Praising with my Hands Lifted!!

2008-11-01T10:27:00.000+05:30

Hi All,

I am Joseph Devassykutty, from the Music Ministry. AWESOME is the first word that comes to my mind, if you ask me about the CAMP-U-S '08.

First time ever to be a part of the Praise and worship team. I just had one thing in my mind to give my Jesus to those who seek HIM. I myself don't know, how I was singing all those voices without anyone prompting me and even after having a sore throat. As I experienced it, 'in the morning I used to have a sore throat but when I started singing, no barriers, no bondages, no blocks could stop me singing'. Cause I was singing for my Lord. I am sure confession helped me a lot.

I really did not know how I started dancing in front of the whole crowd. My feet could not stop dancing, cause I was happy. It was AWESOME. I felt as if some burden had left and I could do nothing but dance.

Earlier, I could never praise GOD by raising my Hands as I had a lot of negative emotions filled by someone. Those days I could praise HIM, only by raising my hands, just imagining that I am a small baby, opening my arms in front of my DAD and pleading to love me, (thanks to Shelton Chettan and his presentation). I was not ashamed to do so, and from now on I will never be.

Keep us in your prayers and all those who participated in the event. I am just waiting for the next get together. Also, pray for us that we start doing the same in our own Parishes. Hoping for the Best.

Praise the LORD!!!

Thanks & Regards,

-- Joseph Thanickal

Awakening of the Soul

2008-10-31T13:25:00.000+05:30

Hey All,

This is Jincy here. I was a part of the music ministry for the event CAMP-U-S 08.I wanted to share my experience with you at the event but couldn’t find the words. But today reading Jomy’s mail has given me the encouragement to do so. When I had come to the event, I was going through a lot of inner turmoil and so even though I was present there physically I could not give it my all, be it in singing or anything else. It was my first attempt at singing itself, let alone in front of the crowd. So initially I was mostly worried about getting the lyrics,pitch,notes(I don’t really know the termsJ) right. Also on the first day I felt out of place and thought maybe this is not what I expected. But as we moved onto the next day I started feeling the change. It happened when some volunteers held an impromptu Praise and worship session headed by Immanuel and Biji where we were interceding for the participants of the event. I felt the Holy Spirit working within me and felt more at peace with myself.

Also, as we were interceding for the participants in the chapel I realized that prayers can do wonders in our lives and also that of others. The words of Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Dabre (Bishop of Vasai) and Elvis chettan were a source of encouragement for me and my friends.Bro Fritz’s were like a bullets falling on my mind and soul which made me realize that you need to long and desire for the Holy Spirit and nothing matters more than the infilling of the spirit. The Praise and worship session held by Shaji chettan the next day renewed my spirit and finally I was singing joyfully to our Lord! praising HIM, worshipping HIM.I forgot all my worries and felt my anxiousness seeping away at the feet of Jesus Christ.

On the last day, Jose chettan session made me realize what a true Christian must be like and what one must do to be true followers of Christ. When the music ministry sang "Welcome Holy Spirit", I felt a strange awakening in me and I submitted myself totally to this awesome experience. Tears flowed down freely and I felt my soul being cleansed and peace settling within me.The anointing of the Holy Spirit and blessings we received from all the priests and bishops made it a wonderful experience and I felt so connected to our Father “Abba” in heaven.

Now, I cannot stop singing and praising the Lord and feel the urge to spend more time with the Lord asking the Holy Spirit to live inside of me.

May Lord bless all the participants, volunteers, resources and all those who were connected to the event in any way and also a thunderous round of applause to Our Lord who made it all happen!!

Praise God!
Regards,

-- Jincy Abraham

Welcome Holy Spirit

2008-10-31T11:17:00.001+05:30

Praise the Lord!!!

Hi everyone. I am Sophy. I was part of the Music Ministry for CAMP-U-S '08.

During the initial days - Day 0 and Day 1, even though we were singing all the songs properly and all, i felt that something was missing. I felt that i was not singing with my whole heart, my mind was not in its place to praise God and to sing his glory. This continued on Day 2 also. I prayed to the Lord asking him "Lord, please let me sing unto you with all my heart, with all my soul".

It was the time of Adoration, that tears started flowing through my eyes. I had no idea why or for what am i crying, but all i could remember was that all through this time i was praising and thanking God even though my tears had not stopped.

Once the Blessed Sacrament was raised, I bowed low to Thank God and then did i feel that through all my anxiety, all my doubts about our singing Lord has heard us and that he had continuously blessed us through all the days in our singing.

On the Final day, when we had started singing "Welcome Holy Spirit", did I feel that our Lord has strengthened each one of us. I had lost my voice on the final day and yet I found myself singing out loud. I felt a shiver running through me during the song. I thanked the Lord, thanked Him so much for being there with us through out. No matter what the circumstance He was there holding our hands.

After the event I was at peace, thanking the Lord for his touch and for filling us with his power!!

Halleluia!!

Regards,

-- Sophy Antony

A Stepping Stone for my Spirituality

2008-10-30T10:20:00.000+05:30

PRAISE THE LORD! HALLELUIAH!

Hi Everyone,

I am Jomy Francis from Powai. I was one amongst the volunteers from the Music Ministry for the event CAMP-U-S 08. It was my first ever experience in this sort of a gathering. While we were singing on the first day everything and everyone were singing in pitch and in sync with the instruments. But something did not feel right for me. I could not feel the song and sing it from my heart and evidently so, neither did the participants feel it in the initial stages of CAMP-U-S 08. On Saturday afternoon after coming to know the importance of intercession even during the course of the event I went to the Chapel and sat there in front of the Holy Eucharist for some time. It was during this session when Saumya (another volunteer from music ministry and myself started to sing the song "As the deer pants for the water" that I began to sing from my heart and began to feel it.

This was the beginning of greater things to come which I realised on the final day of the event.

On the Final Day when Jose Chettan was praying to the Holy Spirit the music ministry began singing the song "Welcome Holy Spirit". It was during this time that I felt the Holy Spirit working in me for the first time ever in my life. Tears started flowing down my eyes and eventhough I was infront of 150 odd participants something inside me did'nt bother about the surroundings and i gave full control of my body and soul to the Holy Spirit.

After this experience one thing that had changed in me was that I began praising the Lord even more fervently and by the grace of the Lord my voice was still without any strain even at the end of the event which generally is not the case with an average singer like me.

"It is the attitude of giving God the best that is seen by the Lord and not a mere urge for mediocracy".

Love and Prayers

-- Jomy Francis

Being Rebuilt & Recharged

2008-10-30T09:20:00.001+05:30

Dear all,

I thank God for allowing me to be a part of CAMP-U-S '08, and I praise God for the wonderful works God did in the lives of all participants and volunteers through this great event.

Personally, it was a good time for me to build my spirituality, through the powerful ministry 'Intercession'. I feel charged now, and I know it is becoz of the energy I received when i sit before the blessed sacrament for intercession.

Love in Jesus

-- Soumya Jose

I was there to be blessed

2008-10-29T08:53:00.000+05:30

Dear all,

I was blessed to be a part of CAMP-U-S '08, a CAMP I could spend with the Spirit. It was a time of reassurance from the LORD. The progress I could see on the majority of the participants who were disinterested and unresponsive in the beginning, slowly starting to open up before the LORD and giving their lives to him towards the closure. God is good and mighty. He rules and reigns. I am waiting to witness His mighty deeds in the Mumbai campuses through the ones who received the LORD and are on fire for Him.

I take this time to thank all those who worked day in and day out for making this even fruitful and successful, and to all those who prayed and offered their sacrifices, supported this endevour financially and with their time and availability.

A blessing to my family:- We are expecting our third baby by next April, and we were struggling to find ways to stop the breast-feeding for our younger son Joshua who s 1 1/2 years now. As this could bring weakness for Neethu as well as the expected baby, we tried almost all the common means to stop the feeding, but was in vain. During the CAMPUS MEET, he spent most of the time with me, even in the nights. It was a time of great struggle to all of my family members, as all of them had fever, cold, vomiting, loose motions, weakness etc. etc. But we held onto the LORD and stayed there for the entire programme. Joshua spent the nights with me without any complaints, which was not so expected from our past experience. Now, by God's grace, we realize that God has done His work in him, and is not insisting on mother's milk now. PRAISE GOD. Though it was a little tough time for us, now my family members are much much better now.

-- Binu Asokan Pararath

TALENT GALLERY - Opening New Windows

2008-10-01T18:50:00.001+05:30

Venue: St. Mary's Hight School, MHADA, Juhu Versova, Andheri (W).
Dates: September 26th 5pm - 28th 6pm.

To sharpen the talents of the Jesus Youth members (targetting the Western Region of India) and to effectively reach out to the youth through the contemporary media such as music, dance, audio-visual presentations etc., Jesus Youth Mumbai organized this event.

It was led by Shelton Pinheiro, Beena Manoj & George Ettiyil of the Rex Band for the music part, accompanied by the gifted & well-known violinist from Mumbai - Lavin, while the audio-visual training was done by Umesh Nair and Jaiby of Rex Band. The event witnessed many a moment of moving testimonies, experience-filled practical sharings, rocking music, moments of deep adoration, technical sessions on breathing, voice exercises, 4 voice practicals, auditions & feedbacks, skit lessons, script writing, physical exercises etc.

CAMP U S Brochure, Poster & Prayer Card

2008-09-25T02:14:00.003+05:30

The brochures, poster and prayer card for CAMP U S '08 is available i our website www.jymumbai.in.

Now that we have another 29 days more for CAMP U S '08, we all need to intensify our prayers and commitments towards this event.

If we haven't done so till now, let us start calling the college students to this programme. I am sure that the brochure and poster will definitely evoke a new interest and enthusiasm in them. Before we approach anyone, let us intensely pray for him, his family, his college and all his needs. Your prayers can turn the hands of God so that all the obstacles the enemy can put in his path to make it to the event shall be removed.

We are bringing excellent resources to this programme. Bro. Fritz is a well known figure in the Catholic Church in India, especially in the Charismatic circles. Bro. Elvis is another gifted resource person, who led the recent growth retreat VISION '08, whose reviews of which we were reading continuosly in the Jesus Youth Mumbai blog

Testimony of a Campus Ministry Product

2008-09-21T02:30:00.002+05:30

Some of you might be wondering why I am so excited about Campus Meet, especially if you know me personally. (I am a family man, married, with 2 kids; whereas Campus Meet has to do with youngsters studying in colleges.) Well, there is a story behind my personal interest for this event!!

Around 12 years back, during the Diwali holidays, a young man attended Campus Meet '96 in Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha in Kerala. His name is Binu Asokan, yes it's me ;). He was a shy, introvert, struggling guy. Many in his college (Mar Athanasius College of Engg, Kerala) thought he was a bubbling personality, one of a coolest kind - and that's what he wanted others to think too; but deep within he was hiding so many things - lack of satisfaction, confidence, hope, direction etc. He was very talented in many areas - whether it was sports or arts, and he had quite a few fans too. His jokes (many a time having double meanings and untidy words) too had fan following (unfortunately). But none of these fans nor the closest "cool" friends knew what he was going through within.

He had his "first-love" relationship broken a year back then, since he found himself helpless when the girl (of his same age) told him that her parents were considering proposals for her; and this guy was very sure that it would take him at least 7-8 years more to get settled in life. They had then mutually decided not to continue with the relationship, since there were so much of uncertainties ahead of us, and we both did not want to put our parents in trouble because of us.

Again, in the recent times he had some incidents of painful memory. He used to love his campus and friends so much, since that was the place where he got a lot of recognition and appreciation, and friends thought of him as a cool guy. He used to even have "hostel-sickness" (instead of "home-sickness") when he went his home on weekends. But now, the situation had changed. The wave of "students' politics" had swept over their batch, which used to be earlier known for its "batch spirit and unity". He, being a good sportsman, was elected that year as the Sports' Secretary of his College Hostel under the banner of the "red-flagged party". (Each hostel had its own unions, and the elections were conducted on party basis). He then had to undergo a painful experience from his party because of his impartial opinions made in the Hostel Union meetings. Some of those decisions supported by him were questioned in the "party meeting" and he was asked to give an "explanation" for his decisions for which the party had a different viewpoint. The most shocking was that his own room-mate - one of his closest buddies - was the one who raised his voice the most, pointing finger at him, counting the "undisciplinary" decisions made by him. Many others of his dear friends watched the firing silently. His face fell, so did his heart. He started feeling uncomfortable and lonely in his campus, since the greatest thing he treasured - his "friends' circle" - was the one that "betrayed" him.

Now it was not very accidental that he decided to attend the Campus Meet '96. There were certain incidents in his life, which drew him to the event. He had a friend, a classmate, named Hormise. He was not the closest friend, but was a very good, loving, caring, understanding friend. Once as these two were traveling in bus on their way back to homes on a weekend, Hormise enquired with Binu whether everything is alright or not. Binu replied - "Yes, everything is going alright." Hormise' approach was very encouraging, and then he said - "I once heard that you and some of your friends were involved in (some particular activity) in your hostel, and I was a little worried about you, and that night I went on my knees and prayed for you!". Binu was shocked!! 'What was there in (my activity) that he felt I needed prayers?' He felt something different about this. 'Either this Hormise was crazy, or... he might be right too, but then there might be many things that I might not know.' The second possibility, if there, was something Binu wanted to know more of. He also felt that Hormise was a person with whom he felt more comfortable than all the other buddies and "cool guys" he knew. There was something special about him!!

Binu later learnt that Hormise was a part of a Catholic group called Jesus Youth, which had a small prayer group for the students of their college, and that Hormise was a firm believer of God. One day, while he was feeling disturbed and uncomfortable about certain things that were worrying him, he invited Hormise to go to Church together. (Now, Binu was from a Hindu background. He used to be fascinated by the Hindu mythological stories which his grandmother used to narrate when he was very young. He knew more such stories than most of the urban guys of his generation. When the 'love-break' happened a year back, he had given a try to find solace and comfort by visiting a nearby temple frequently, but it was not of much help, apart from a satisfaction and hope that some day things would be OK.)

Hormise obliged, and they went to St. George Cathedral on his bike. Binu did not know what to do and how to do in a Church, so he decided to do what Hormise would do. When Hormise knelt down and made a sign of the Cross, he too did so; when the former sat on a bench, the latter too did. He was watching the former very carefully. After around 20 minutes or so, Hormise, stood up and came outside. The follower did his part too. Hormise invited him to sit near the steps, and was all prepared to listen to what Binu had to say. Now Binu, slowly opened up, with a lot of reluctance, that he needs a big change. It was not so easy for him, for he did not exactly figure out what is troubling him the most. Now, at the end of this sharing, Hormise asked him whether he shall pray for him. Binu was more than happy to let that happen. He was to witness something that he never expected in his whole life. He watched Hormise speaking to his dearest friend - Jesus Christ - as if He were very much present right there. To him, Jesus was a familiar person, to who he had a chat with very often. He surrendered all the struggles and pain of Binu, acknowledging that Jesus was the only person who loves Binu the most, and the one who knows and understands Binu more than any other person in this world, and the one who can solve all the problems of his life!!! Tears started overflowing Binu's eyes. He could sense a divine presence, that slowly turned his burdened heart into a free and light one. He experienced a deep sense of relief and hope.

Both of them returned to hostels. Binu thanked Hormise for his time and patience. Though he experienced peace and comfort, he was a long way from believing that it was really God's presence that made the difference. He thought that it could be a good psychological experience only. But he had a sincere appreciation for Hormise and his "Christian faith" that can lead to such psychological effects!!!

Later, there happened a retreat for their college. Hormise invited Binu, but the latter was not much interested. It was during this time that the "Hostel Elections" happened. It was a celebration time for him, and retreat had no place in his agenda. But since the post-election "party-dose" turned out to be a bitter cup for him, he remembered the "psychological experience" with Hormise, and waited for the next opportunity to attend Jesus Youth programme.

That opportunity came in the shape of Campus Meet '96. Jim and Tojan, some of the prayer group members showed him the brochure of the event, and Binu was deeply impressed!! The theme verse of the event was - "In Him was life and that life was the light of all men." (John 1:4). The is Word somehow penetrated his heart and disturbed him. He thought - "'In Him was life'... even I have life. What's so special about 'His life'? Yeah, His life was the light of all men, but mine is in deep darkness!" He longed to understand more about this life, and if possible, to experience it (If what this verse claimed was true). He made a decision to go for this programme. Since then, whenever he saw the posters and brochure of this event, he felt that he was getting closer to what his heart was yearning for - GOD. His confidence grew when he spent a few minutes a day at Jim's room, when Jim would open the Bible for him. Always he used to receive portions that Jim had underlined during his retreats - the Words of healing and comfort, assurances of His powerful presence with us. Jim used to say, "I had marked these portions during my retreats so that I could locate them easily. But usually when I open the Bible I don't get these passages. But when you are with me, I am always getting such beautiful messages. I am sure God is speaking this specially to you!!". Such words were truly those of hope and encouragement. Jim had also shared with him his retreat experiences, inner healing, and the physical healing of his ear that used to have puss problem on which doctors had given up.

Binu came to Campus Meet along with the college prayer group members. He saw that the whole atmosphere was so beautiful and different from the kind of pleasures of the world that he was after. When he entered the hall, he saw around 700 youngsters singing along with the Music Ministry and worshipping God!! Something he could never even imagine!! So many youth asembled there have no shame acknowledging the existence of God!!! In this programme, he was touched by the testimonies of several youths who shared their God experiences, and he wished that even he could have so many beautiful experiences of God's intervention in his life. The praise & worship, adoration, group dynamics, video presentations, skits and interaction with so many people, all was so new and wonderful to him. It was also a time when he heard from his friends that to lead a life acceptable before God, we need to be holy, and forsake all the ways, habits, words, attitudes, companies etc. that do not conform to His will. It was a tough lesson for him, for he knew that he was not holy, and was not sure if he could bid good bye to many of his ways and habits. But he somehow felt that if God demands holiness from him, He would also strengthen him enough to do what it required to meet the demand. He made some firm decisions in the presence of the LORD.

When they were back from the event, Binu started to attend college prayer meetings at Vimalagiri High School, had daily rosary with Tojan, had frequent interactions with Hormise and other prayer group members. Now the college prayer group had been planning for a one day retreat for the college, and they had a daily intercession meeting in Vimalagiri. Hormise invited Binu to join that, and one evening he went for the same. By this time he had learnt to say the Rosary. They used to say 3 rosaries together. By the time they finished one Rosary, Binu started to experience something strange. His hands started feeling cold, and soon he felt something like electricity passing through him. It was real, it was soothing, and he learnt later that it was the Spirit of God manifesting in his body in a tangible way. He felt revitalized, and from that day onwards, he got strength to overcome several of the temptations of the Evil One that once used to drag him to bad habits, bad talk and bad lifestyle. His faith was dramatically confirmed, and he did not had a slightest of doubt at that time till now that it was God's hand that touched him and did the work in him. About a year and a half he spent in his campus was a time of transformation and growth. The formation he received in the prayer group was awesome. It was as if God gave him a Crash Course on faith, not compromising on the syllabus!!! He grew in faith, hope, love, character, understanding, wisdom, hope, confidence, direction, inner-healing and much more! May be if you look at Binu today, you may not find anything so special, but still if you compare him with the old Binu he used to be, ie. Binu in his BC and now in his AD, there is a far cry between both!! I am sure.

My story of conversion does not end here. Probably at a later time I can narrate the events that happened later. I have done this excercise of taking more than 3 hours in the night recollecting and writing my testimony, for a specific purpose: I want you to realize the difference that a Campus Prayer group can do to someone's life. Are you fortunate to be born as a Christian? Do you feel complacent with that? Don't you think that you have some duty towards those who have never heard of a Saviour, or those who have heard of him, but never have experienced Jesus as their Lord and Saviour? A prayer group, that was started in 1986 by the initiative of a few ordinary people led by our very own Soney (Noble) chechi, could win many souls like me in the campus. I was not the only one. In fact, in my final year, out of the 12 core group leaders, 4 were non-Christians, and 2 others were non-Catholics (Of course, all of them were in Catholic faith). The group had also touched the lives of many Christians themselves, who otherwise were nominal Christians.

Campus is a place/time where the youngsters seek a lot of fulfillment in life, where they do different experiments with life, and often do experiments on themselves too. Many tend to trod the wrong path after they enter the campus life. We are dreaming of building Campus Ministry in each and every College in Mumbai, so that every soul may experience Jesus, and not be lost in the deceptions of this world!

If you feel that you cannot sit idle, but need to press on hard for realizing the kingdom of God in this world, I urge you to come forward, and take the plough. It's the Lord who is calling!! The harvest is ripening. The labourers are few, very few, for most of them are very busy in their own affairs. It's totally upon you to decide whether to respond to the call or not!!! The yoke is light, it's foolish to think that it is heavy. The Lord is asking for your availability, and not your capability. It's you, hey.. you only, that the Lord is calling. Don't look to your right or left, he meant you!! The trumpet is blowing! Now is the time! Did you feel the mountains tremble, and the oceans roar? The Lord is preparing us for the harvest!!!

-- Binu Asokan Pararath

Forty Days Fasting for CAMP-U-S '08

2008-09-15T15:10:00.002+05:30

We are coming closer and closer every day to the Campus Meet. We had a planning session yesterday at St. Thomas Church, Kalina. We could experience the living presence of God in our midst, guiding us through His Holy Spirit.

The Lord was telling us - "you are being set apart for me and for my kingdom". We got a number too - 50. Very likely, the Lord is setting apart in a very special way 50 people for His kingdom now. Are you one among them?

I repeat the question that I have raised before. I hope you are reading our postings. We would highly appreciate a reply from you.

"ARE YOU INSPIRED TO DO SOMETHING FOR THE LORD THROUGH THE CAMPUS MEET?"

If the answer is "YES", please contact us at campus08@jymumbai.in.

We are starting a "40 days fasting" for the "fruitfulness" (more than "success") of the CAMPUS MEET. I urge you to join the same.

The 40 days of fasting starts from Monday 15th September, which will go on upto Friday 24th October. Those who cannot join in the beginning to can take the commitment from the day they wish to. The options of fasting and prayer are one or a combination of:

Skipping one meal every day / or at least one meal a week.
Avoiding non-vegetarian food.
Total abstinence of TV / Avoiding at least entertainment channels
Not watching movies.
Avoiding tea, coffee, ice cream, cola, chocolates etc.
Good night sleep on floor (not on bed).
Daily Mass
Rosaries
Divine Mercy & Sacred Heart Chaplets
Bible Reading
Sacrifices of bigger / smaller magnitudes. etc. etc.

Do join us in this initiative that is not only going to make a big difference to Mumbai, but is also going to transform you from glory to glory in the coming days. You will never be the same again after this!! So, prepare yourself for the hour of blessings...

CAMP-U-S '08 Updates

2008-09-13T13:03:00.001+05:30

Share your offerings of prayers , time, efforts and money for the glory of God, and you are blessed. Don't hesitate if you have only less. The "widow's mite" is more precious to the Lord than the "Phaisee's gold".

"Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you." - Luke 6:38

The Campus Meet (CAMP-U-S '08) is coming up!!!

Spread the word among your friends. Start talking about CAMPUS MEET. Take conscious effort to get involved and to generate interest among the youth. For any queries regarding the programme, let us know.

The brochure of the programme and the materials of mobilization is getting ready for final touches. We know that we are a little late, but we offer our limitations & failure to the Lord, and ask Him humbly to intervene...

Milestones

2008-09-10T20:40:00.004+05:30

Campus Ministry was there on the dreams of Jesus Youth Mumbai for quite some time, though we experienced it as a concrete movement in the recent months only.

Around 8 years back, Mrs. Bindu Joppen shared her dreams about Campus Ministry in Mumbai in a 4th Sunday gathering. This gathering mainly consisted of the youth who were brought up in Mumbai. Some of them were inspired by this, and decided to start something for the glory of God. They include Sumin Francis, Immanuel Joseph, Agnel Paul, Soumya Mathew etc. They gathered a few (2-3) like-minded people in their respective colleges, and continued it till they completed their tenure as students of the college. But because there was no focussed effort to build upon that base, the groups gradually vanished.

Later on, in 2006-07, with the initiative of Charles Bastian, the fulltimer for Mumbai then, we started two small groups with 3-4 people, one in Tolani College, Andheri and the other in Shree Narayana College, Checmbur. They too continued as long as Charles was in Mumbai. In the next academic year, it suffered the same fate of the earlier attempts.

With this background of limited success but undying zeal, the service team kept on praying for a breakthough in Mumbai's campuses. When the Service Team reconstitution happened in February 2007, we identified a few people for Campus Ministry. When the team met for discernment and planning for the year 2008, every member felt a strong assurance from the Lord that this year is going to be a year focussing on the Campus students. It was during this time when Mar Agnello Gracius, Aux. Bishop of Archdiocese of Bombay, invited us in November last year (See details) along with several other Youth Movements in Mumbai to pray & think together in one direction to reach out to several thousands of youth in the Campus. We also attended a follow-up of that meeting this May.

After the Service Team training at Baroda (4th - 6th April), a few of our team members had great enthusiasm to start campus prayer groups all over Mumbai. We were praying for the same and also selected and started praying for some second line leaders who could help us to build a strong Campus Ministry in Mumbai.

After that, the first gathering for the campus ministry happened under the guidance of Sr. Serena & Soney Noble, with Geena Rajan, Salesh Chacko, Arun Jose, Soumya Jose, Prestina Joseph, Immanuel Joseph, Rani Jose and Joseph George as the particpants. We set up as a team and Arun Jose was all set to lead. This was in the second week of May, when we had come together to understand our campus and Lord's plan for the Campus of Mumbai. We had a beautiful time with the Lord and he gave us great insights that we could incorporate in our Campus Ministry planning. We had planned for a chain intercession especially for the Campus Ministry. It was the start.

Now there was a CAMPUS VIBES program happening in Bangalore, it would be one of a kind!!!! that would focus to build up Campus ministries all over India. We were praying that we would be able to select the right persons to attend this program.

CAMPUS VIBES was attended by 4 participants along with 2 service team members. The experience was of course, marvelous!!!

With the same enthusiasm, and as decided we had planned to keep a Campus Meet in Mumbai. In June third week, we had gathered to plan for this event, where a list of decisions was in place. We needed to have a team from each ministry, it would gather together and work towards building the same. These ministries would be helping out for the Campus meet. We divided the members into various ministries and gave a leader to each one, who would take the lead and build up the particular ministry. We also wanted to discern a name for the Campus Meet.

The first week of July we gathered around 30 campus students who would be helping us in the Campus meet. It was held in Clelia Convent, Sakinaka. We spent some beautiful time of worship with the Lord, and we could plan and added the participants to the ministries and gave them the idea as to how to take forward the same. It was a great experience, as we could see Jesus working in our midst in a marvelous way.

From then onwards, the service team members and the core team with great zeal often came together and planned for the success of the Campus Meet. Some of our planning for our campus meet, we had a dream to have a crowd of 500 – 700 campus students from the Mumbai campuses, and to carry out the Campus Meet in one of the best place in city itself, to invite the Bishops of our own and the neighbouring Dioceses to inaugurate the Campus Meet. We had planned for 2 traning programs, one was Talent Gallery to sharpen the music and audio-visual talents and the other was the Volunteers training. We were excited to get confirmation from the leaders of the Rex band itself to come down to lead the Talent Gallery, with a plan to have around 30 participants, and to include the whole of the Western Region which would include Pune, Nagpur, Gujarat and Chanda. The volunteer training was to be lead by Jordy Michael, that National Campus Team Co-ordinator and team. There was an idea to have various group activities in Campus meet, there need to be one group leader.

On this meeting, the name for the CAMPUS MEET was discerned and decided - CAMP-U-S '08 (a CAMP yoU spend with the Spirit). Praise the Lord!!!

There was a change in the Campus meet dates as per the suggestion and advices of campus students, parents and priests. It was earlier planned to have it on 22nd - 24th August, which would consume 2 working days for several students. Now this slot was beautifully utilized according to the kloving & providential plan of God, wherein we conducted VISION '08, a growth retreat for the youth. It was a beautiful Spiritual Preparation for the Campus Meet. The Campus Meet was postponed to 24th - 27th October.

The schedule was planned for all the 3 days, it was verified by Navin Bruce Thomas, when he had spent few hours in Mumbai. And not the least, these decisions were taken in support and coordination of National Campus Team.

Our coordinator Salesh Chacko and animator Mrs. Soney Noble, along with others like Jose Michael, Geena Rajan, Arun Jose etc. went to meet Mar Bosco Penha, the ecclesiastical in charge of the youth movements in the Bombay Diocese to introduce Jesus Youth movement, and the idea of Campus Ministry and very specially the CAMPUS MEET. The Bishop listened to us with a lot of interest, and offered His blessings and support for our ministry. In accordance with his advice, we contacted the managements of several Catholic Colleges for a proper venue for the event. Eventhough all of them showed interest and support to our initiatives, those colleges were unfortunately not available on these dates. Finally, we got a confirmation from Fr. Sheen, the director of St. Mary's High School, Andheri (W), to have the event conducted there. Though we now have to limit the seats to 250 as against our initial plan of 500, we strongly believe that God's plan is always better and providential compared to ours.

We are eagerly waiting for our first major outreach into our campuses. It's only 44 days from now!! Maranatha - Come Lord!!! The Spirit and the Bride say "Come Lord, Mumbai Campuses are waiting for your glorious entry!!! AMEN" (Revelation 22:17)

-- Prestina Vazhapilly & Binu Asokan Pararath

Whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully" - 2 Cor 9:6

2008-09-06T11:39:00.001+05:30

2 Corinthians 9:6

Dear brothers & sisters,

As we are preparing for certain major events in the coming days, such as CAMP-U-S '08 in October and TALENT GALLERY in September, we are grateful to the Lord that He is providing us with the best that we can imagine of, in spite of our shortcomings and unworthiness. VISION '08 was a very good step towards this direction, as it is evident from the fact that the participants are fully charged by the Spirit of God, and are ready to live for God's glory and to take whatever challenges they may have to face to build the kingdom of God.

As we move ahead, we have an uphill task before us, though we trust fully on the Divine Providence. We need to raise at least Rs. 2 Lakhs plus for Campus Meet. We have given a lot of thought over it, and have finally decided that it will be best conducted in a /SchoolCampus itself, rather than in a Retreat Center, as we usually do. This means that a lot of arrangements need to be made in conducting such an event, including auditorium/hall, seating, accommodation, transporting, power backup, light, sound, water, food, sanitation facilities etc. etc. etc. However, we are fully convinced that this is how we should be going about to enter the Campuses.

I would like to remind you that you have a very important role to play in this wind of change in the Campuses!! It is not just your great responsibility, but also your great privilege to be a part of God's work. "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest" - Matthew 9:37-38. You and I once were a part of the harvest. Others sowed, some others reaped, and we were collected into the Eternal Barn of God. But now, you and I are not just to remain there as a harvest alone, but also to be a Good News to this world, where our light is kept on the table for others to see, and not hidden under the stool. (Luke 8:16-18). We are also called to be laborers who can take part in sowing of the seeds and reaping of the harvest. I ask God's Spirit now to help each one of you to open you hearts to this compelling call; this need of the hour.

You can contribute in a number of ways:

1. By your availability

There is a whole lot of ways your availability can make a huge difference to others. We have to reach out to thousands of youths in a short span of time. A whole lot of mobilization depends solely on each on of you. The more you and I "sow" our valuable hours, the more will we "reap"

2. By your powerful prayers

Every prayer is a powerful weapon, able to move mountains that block our way. You can join the army of angels who constantly keep guard of God's people. We need your prayers and partnership in this mission. You can offer your small sacrifices to the Lord for our ministry such as skipping a meal weekly, accepting day-to-day hardships without complaining,

3. By your monetary contributions

Last, but not the least. Each penny that you give for the glory of God counts!!! "Every need is an opportunity for charity." Your love for the souls of the youth in Mumbai is expressed in a very special way by meeting the needs of the ministry that is all set to reach out to them. "The fruit of your hard work has the seeds of eternal life within it."

I urge you to contribute generously to win all the campuses for Jesus. You can set apart an amount at every month. We hope we have not been too late to reach you this month. Remember, it is the cammandment of the Lord our God himself to bring tithes to His house.

"Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house, and try me in this, says the LORD of hosts: Shall I not open for you the floodgates of heaven, to pour down blessing upon you without measure? For your sake I will forbid the locust to destroy your crops; And the vine in the field will not be barren, says the LORD of hosts. Then all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a delightful land, says the LORD of hosts." - Malachi 3:10-12

Obeying this commandment has really made a big difference my own life, and many others in our group will be able to testify that the Lord really means when He says it. "For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that for your sake he became poor although he was rich, so that by his poverty you might become rich." - 2 Corinthians 8:9. "My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:19

Kindly contact us at contact@jymumbai.in for more details. Receipts will be issued against every payment that you make.

Requesting you all once again to contribute generously...

(On behalf of the Service Team of Jesus Youth Mumbai)

- Binu Asokan Pararath

Talent Gallery @ Mumbai, A preparation for CAMP-U-S '08

2008-08-30T16:09:00.003+05:30

September 2008, 26^th 6:00 pm to 28^th 6:00 pm

The National Campus Team along with Mumbai Service Team has planned to come up with a TALENT GALLERY specially focused on MUSIC at Mumbai on 26^th to 28^th of September 2008. This training programme is exclusively designed for Jesus Youth who have an intense love for music; and the Rex Band being in the lead, this can make the lives of many a talented young people deeply rooted in Christ.

A maximum of 30 can be a part of this programme. The registration forms for the same has been attached and the filled-in forms are requested to be send to campus@jesusyouth.org before 2^nd September 2008. The selected ones from the biodatas received will be contacted later for further details.

One of the objectives of this programme is to develop a committed, talented and powerful team of people in the music & audio-visual ministries for the upcoming programmes, very specially the CAMP-U-S '08.

So let's together make this endeavour a success. Please do keep us all, alive in your prayers especially the TALENT GALLERY training programme.

Binu Pararath: 9223317473• Leo Chacko: 9833396568
Fr. Francis Eluvathingal: 25785515 • Salesh Chacko: 9920011746
contact@jymumbai.in • http://blog.jymumbai.in/ • http://www.jesusyouth.org/

Download Attachment: Biodata / Registration Form

Venue: St. Mary's High School, MHADA, Juhu Versova, Andheri (W)

View Larger Map

CAMP-U-S '08

2008-08-30T16:04:00.006+05:30

October 24^th 5:00pm - 27^th 6:00pm

We are extremely delighted to announce the event CAMPUS MEET, the first of its kind in Mumbai, wherein we are reaching out to the youth from various college campuses of Mumbai. The programme is named CAMP-U-S '08 (YOUR CAMP WITH THE SPIRIT). CAMPUS MEET is the beginning of the realization our long-time-dream of lifting high the banner of Jesus Christ and bringing the kingdom of God into our campuses. We all are well aware that campus plays a very important part in our lives; where we spend a significant part of our youthful energy and time, get exposure to the various realities of this modern world, experience freedom and learn to make choices. We hope to attract the attention of today's youth to the unfailing love of our Lord Jesus Christ, through the most contemporary methods and means available to us.

We hereby welcome each and every college student not only to make sure your availability for this programme, but also to spread the word in your campuses and bring maximum number of your friends to this event. This is a unique opportunity for you to bring them to Jesus - the source of all joy, peace and fullness of life.

To all the priests / religious / parents / elders, we humbly request you to render your whole-hearted support to this initiative through prayers, and by taking personal interest in sending all the college students in your parishes, institutions, families & neighbourhood into this programme. Be assured that CAMPUS MEET will not only be a joyful experience, but also will be helpful to them in getting a clear direction, a positive outlook, maturity and boldness to make the right choices in life when they are in their campuses. We are extremely glad to tell you that so far we have received kind and whole-hearted support from the Bishops in the dioceses of Bombay, Kalyan and Vasai.

We are bringing excellent and highly gifted resources to lead this programme such as Bro. Fritz Mascarenhas (Bangalore), National Campus Team leaders etc. There will be opportunity for Confession, Counseling etc.

So, get ready for CAMP-U-S '08

to spend some of the most beautiful moments in your life in the presence of God. ("Lord, it is good that we are here" - Matthew 17:4)
to unleash the gifts, talents and potentials in you for the glory of God ("Sir, your gold coin has earned ten additional ones." - Luke 19:16)
to be strengthened by the Spirit and to be a channel of love and healing in your campuses (They went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs. - Mark 16:20)

Venue: St. Mary's Hight School, MHADA, Juhu Versova, Andheri (W), Mumbai.

Gracing the Occasion

Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Viruthukulangara (Archbishop of Nagpur)
Mar Thomas Elavanal (Bishop of Kalyan)
Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Dabre (Bishop of Vasai)
Rt. Rev. Dr. Bosco Penha (Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay)
Rt. Rev. Dr. Agnello Gracius (Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay)

Resource Persons

Bro. Fritz Mascharanhes • Fr. Francis Eluvathingal
Dr. Edward Edezhath • Bro. Elvis Kottooran • Bro. Jose Sebastian

Contact us for more information

Arun Jose: 9920950525 • Leo Chacko: 9833396568
Salesh Chacko: 9920011746 • Fr. Jaison Kollanur: 9969828765
campus08@jymumbai.in • http://campus.jymumbai.in/
contact@jymumbai.in • http://blog.jymumbai.in/ • http://www.jesusyouth.org/

Why a Campus Ministry Blog?

2008-08-23T13:08:00.003+05:30

This year is an eventful one as far as Campus Ministry is concerned. Right from the last year, Mumbai Service Team had a dream of starting something concrete in the ministry for College students from this year onwards. Campus Ministry was always there on the cards for the last few years, but then, "now is the time / time of grace / KAIROS for the Campus Ministry in Mumbai.

Our dreams for doing something in the Campus got a strong support from Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Francis Eluvathingal (Jesus Youth Mumbai Pastor) and then by Mar Thomas Elavanal, the Bishop of Kalyan Diocese. We got another surprise boost, when we received a whole-hearted encouragement from Mar Agnello Gracis, Aux. Bishop of Archdiocese of Bombay, who invited us in November last year (See details) along with several other Youth Movements in Mumbai to pray & think together in one direction to reach out to several thousands of youth in the Campus. We also attended a few follow-ups of that meeting this year.

The first major reachout by Jesus Youth Mumbai into the Campus will be through the programme CAMP-U-S '08, the first of its kind in Mumbai. Yes... we are starting big way, by targetting around 500 youth from Mumbai campuses.

Also, our Campus Team is taking shape. To sharpen the music & audio-visual talents of the team members, we are conducting a TALENT GALLERY this September. We expect to have a series of developments in this ministry, and thus this blog is going to keep you updated on the latest happennings.

We start this by invoking the powerful intercession of Mother Mary, along with all the heavenly hosts and the saints of this world. May Almighty God lead us, guide us and make us a blessings of the times through Jesus Christ our Lord - AMEN.