Youth Association
The Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church
The Youth Association of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christian Church is the official youth wing of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church under the Holy See of Antioch and All the East.
This dynamic movement brings together the young men and women of the Church to strengthen their faith, deepen their spiritual life, and actively participate in the mission and ministry of the Holy Church. Rooted in the ancient Apostolic tradition, the Association serves as a vibrant platform for faith formation, fellowship, and service.
History and Establishment
The idea of a dedicated youth organization within the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church was born in the early 20th century, as the Church recognized the need to channel the energy and potential of its youth towards spiritual and social renewal.
Under the visionary leadership of committed clergy and laity, the Youth Association was formally organized to unite young people across parishes and dioceses under one spiritual and administrative structure. The Association soon became a movement of faith and action, promoting leadership, charity, and commitment to the life of the Church.
Today, the Youth Association functions actively in almost every parish in India and abroad, forming a bridge between the Church's sacred tradition and the aspirations of modern Christian youth.
Objectives and Mission
The Youth Association aims to nurture spiritually mature, socially responsible, and service-minded young Christians who live according to the Gospel and uphold the teachings of the Syriac Orthodox Church.
Main objectives include:
- Spiritual Growth: Strengthening the youth in faith through prayer, worship, and study of the Holy Bible.
- Leadership Development: Training young people for active participation in the mission and administration of the Church.
- Social Commitment: Encouraging charitable, cultural, and educational activities for the welfare of society.
- Unity and Fellowship: Building a sense of communion among the youth within parishes, dioceses, and the global Jacobite community.
- Faith Formation: Teaching the traditions, liturgy, and history of the Syriac Orthodox Church, fostering pride in its Apostolic heritage.
Its mission can be summarized in the words of St. Paul:
"Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." – 1 Timothy 4:12
Structure and Organization
The Youth Association functions at three levels — Parish, Diocesan, and Central — under the spiritual leadership of the Catholicos of India.
Each parish has its own youth unit, led by elected office bearers and the vicar as the spiritual guide. Diocesan committees coordinate local activities, while the Central Committee at Puthencruz oversees the movement's direction and programs.
Major Activities
The Youth Association conducts a wide range of spiritual, educational, and charitable programs, including:
- Bible studies, retreats, and prayer meetings
- Leadership training and youth camps
- Seminars and workshops on faith, morality, and current issues
- Cultural events and talent competitions
- Social service and charitable outreach to the poor and needy
- Support to Church activities, feasts, pilgrimages, and missions
- Publications and digital media outreach to inspire faith among youth
Through these activities, the Association encourages young people to live as witnesses of Christ in their families, parishes, and communities.
Headquarters and Leadership
The Central Office of the Youth Association is located at Puthencruz, Ernakulam District, Kerala, India, functioning under the direct supervision and blessing of the Catholicos of India.
Annual youth conferences, retreats, and leadership training programs are organized under the guidance of bishops and clergy, fostering unity and spiritual revival among the youth.
Legacy and Vision
Over the decades, the Youth Association of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christian Church has played a key role in shaping the spiritual identity and social consciousness of countless young faithful. Many of its members have gone on to become priests, church leaders, educators, and community builders.
Looking forward, the Association envisions expanding its mission through digital evangelism, global youth networking, and community development initiatives, ensuring that the faith and legacy of the Syriac Orthodox Church continue to shine in every generation.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13