ACTS OF THE APOSTLES @ WYD LISBEN | KAIROS GLOBAL | OCTOBER 2023

Intro: Band members of the Acts of the Apostles share their experiences of performing onstage at WYD Lisbon. 

WYD Lisbon lived up to the expectation of showcasing the truly universal nature of our Catholic Church. The young people who gathered deeply yearned to know Him more in silence and songs, dance and adoration alike. 

Our band had a lovely time engaging with the people who came for our concerts, cementing our conviction that the Lord works in miraculous ways through which his mercy and healing flow. It was also a special time for us as we emerged from the Covid slumber with a bang. Leading people into the presence of the Lord unchained us from our own bonds and constraints, it was beautiful, peaceful and energising. Last but definitely not the least, we had a great time enjoying the food there ‒ pastel de belém was my personal favourite!

• Georlin Babu, Lead Guitarist

It was wonderful to minister with the band both on and off stage. It was great to see how language is never a barrier in worshipping, and as God’s children, how we are one big family. Our love for the Lord Jesus is what binds us all together. The crowds singing the band’s songs in Hindi louder than us was a joy to hear! Off stage too, it was wonderful as we sang our songs in the metro and on the streets to the pilgrims as we travelled, not leaving a single opportunity to minister to people by sharing joy through the medium of our music.

• Timson Thomas, Lead Vocalist

Thirteen magical days of my life. I had one of the best experiences in Lisbon for World Youth Day. After I graduated from college, the only thing I dreamed of was becoming a musician and playing live shows. For almost two years, I wasn't hired for any show, even in my city, New Delhi. My only dream at that point was to play in at least a small club in the city with a small group of people.

By God's grace, when Covid settled, I started playing small shows and performing. But never in my dreams did I imagine that I would be playing in front of thousands of people waving their countries' flags and cheering. A year ago, I was fortunate enough to be called by one of the most popular gospel bands in our country, ‘Acts of the Apostles’. I used to sing their song Jeevan Jal at church in the choir when I was a kid. I never knew that I would be playing with brilliant musicians one day.

Long story short, I got to play with them, and I played one of the biggest concerts I'll ever play in my life. I'm so grateful for this opportunity, and experiencing Jesus through music was another enriching experience. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw a sea of people right in front of me. I never knew I would play such a big concert in my life. Thanks to all the lovely people in the band for trusting me and giving me this opportunity. It was a dream come true moment for me, which I'll always cherish.

• Abin Johny, Drummer

The preparation for WYD started almost 3-4 years back with each one of us putting in small sums of money each month in our accounts to make it for the WYD in Lisbon. It was all worth it, where I personally experienced the bond we have created with the people and out of their love they contributed to our mission too. Because of all their help we were able to make it to this WYD. The daily experience of spending time with youth around the world, listening to various preachers and pushing through crowds just to see a glimpse of the stage were unreal experiences. 

The main stage venue, separated by a river, had a breath-taking view. The two concerts we had were the ones to remember because the crowd experienced the joy and peace of Christ. To party with them in this festival will be the highlight of the tour. But something which touched me the most was the Shalom volunteers’ smile and prayer that we had with them.

Overall truly memorable experience. Looking forward to South Korea!

• Edgar Faria, Bass Guitarist