Lucknow: The Lucknow Diocesan Youth Commission (LDYC) marked a historic moment on November 17, 2024, with the unveiling of its official Youth Flag during the Bible Festival 2024. This event not only showcased the youth’s creativity and faith but also fulfilled a long-anticipated dream prayed for by many in the diocese. Over 200 youth gathered to celebrate faith, community, and the unveiling of the flag that now symbolises their collective mission.
The Youth Flag, designed by Ankit Paul Tigga, was inspired by the creativity of Paul Lakra, Monica Juli, Samarth Beck, and many other youth of the diocese. With its vibrant colours of orange, yellow, and green, the flag represents growth, light, and hope. The dove of peace, crown of thorns, and cross reflect the core values of the youth ministry, while the procession of people carrying crosses symbolizes the shared journey of the youth as they walk together in faith.
The realization of this Youth Flag was the culmination of a long-held dream and prayer. Thanks to the dedicated leadership of the Diocesan Youth Executive Committee (DEXCO), the vision of the flag became a reality. Under the guidance of Fr. Dominic Pinto (Diocesan Youth Director), Sr. Rajini Tigga (Diocesan Youth Lady Animator), Fr. Arun Coth (Assistant Youth Director), and Mr. Aryan Lawrance (Diocesan Youth President), this vision was brought to life. They led with unwavering passion, helping the youth embrace their faith in new and exciting ways.
The creation of the flag also benefited from the valuable support of Mr. Ajay Dominic Dahanga, the Youth Advisor, whose expertise provided valuable guidance to the Ad-Hoc Team. Led by Sheryl Swing and Roshan, the Ad-Hoc team took charge of the technical aspects of the event, ensuring that every detail was perfectly executed.
The Bible Festival 2024 began on November 16 with a Eucharistic Adoration and a Bible procession, led by Nikhil Tirkey. The welcome address by Rikki Dhawan set the tone for the two-day event, while Ms. Silvia Lawrence Joseph and Adv. Nivedita worked behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly. The Ad-Hoc Team took charge of the event logistics, while Sheryl Swing and Roshan Kujur handled the technical setup, ensuring flawless execution.
The festival was filled with a variety of engaging competitions, including Bible Recitation, Group Singing, Pencil Sketching, and Biblical Soft Board Decoration. These activities highlighted the creativity, enthusiasm, and biblical knowledge of the youth. A Bible Quiz, hosted by Abhishek Benedict and Judith Ann Benedict, put the participants’ knowledge to the test in a fun and challenging way.
The second day began with a Holy Mass, celebrated by Fr. Denis Naresh Lobo, Vicar General of the Diocese of Lucknow. His uplifting sermon reminded the youth that they are the present and future of the Church, urging them to live out their faith with purpose, especially as Christ’s return is promised.
A special session on the importance of the Bible, led by Fr. Andrew D’Cunha, Parish Priest of St. Dominic Savio Church, emphasized how the Scriptures guide our lives and help us face challenges with strength. His reflections inspired the youth to embrace the Word of God and live with faith.
Throughout the event, Ms. Anupma Khushbu Soren took charge of the liturgical aspects, ensuring that prayer and spirituality remained central throughout the festival. Her efforts helped bind the youth in prayer and devotion, creating a spiritually enriching environment for everyone involved.
The festival also featured exciting performances, including the Folk Fusion Group Dance, Duet Singing, Saints Fashion Show, and a Biblical Skit. These performances not only showcased the youth’s creativity but also celebrated their Catholic identity in a lively and fun way.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Fr. Dominic Pinto, who expressed gratitude to all those who made the festival a success. Special mention was made of the alumni who returned to support the event, including Ajay Dominic Dahanga, Abhishek Benedict, Clinton Massey, Sajjan Francis, Isha Marandi, Aman Hembrom, Samuel Massey, and Dolly Joseph. Their continued support is a testament to the lasting impact of the youth ministry in the diocese.
The prize distribution ceremony crowned Holy Redeemer Church as the Overall champion, with St. Joseph’s Cathedral Church securing the first runner-up title, and Our Lady of Graces Church taking home the second runner-up position. These awards celebrated the hard work, creativity, and spirit of the youth throughout the event.
In addition to their contributions, the media coverage was taken care of by Godwin Massey and Rikki Dhawan, who captured the festival’s moments on camera and shared them with the wider community. Their efforts helped bring the event to life through visuals that will serve as lasting memories for all participants.
The LDYC Youth Flag now proudly stands as a symbol of unity, faith, and hope for the youth of the Diocese of Lucknow. It represents their commitment to following Christ and spreading His love throughout the world. This flag is not just a symbol – it is a reminder of the vibrant and active role the youth play in the Church today.
The success of this event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the Diocesan Youth Executive Committee (DEXCO), the Ad-Hoc Team, the Alumni, and all the volunteers who contributed their time and energy. The LDYC Youth Flag will continue to inspire the youth of the diocese to live out their faith with passion and purpose.