EDITORIAL | KAIROS GLOBAL | DECEMBER 2020

Author: Dr. Chackochan J Njavallil

Coral Jubilee and Beyond

For a second year undergraduate student hailing from a remote village in Kerala, India, Jesus Youth ’85, for me was breathtaking and unforgettable. To think that thirty-five years have passed since that groundbreaking experience is definitely hard to believe. But for the two thousand men and women who participated in it, it still remains an incredible event, out of which evolved the unique and remarkable youth movement.

The name – Jesus Youth, its emblem, the meaningful and exciting Malayalam theme song, the unique Jesus Youth style which blends youthfulness and creativity, fun and friendship, the realisation that witnessing Jesus through our lives is the sole purpose of our existence... all these evolved out of Jesus Youth ’85.

The accomplishments of Jesus Youth over the years are extraordinary and marvellous. Several thousands of teenagers, youth and young families are involved in it. It has spread to almost all continents, and several cultures and communities. Inspired by the movement, many are joining priesthood and consecrated life. Innumerable people’s lives have been influenced for the better and numerous evangelisation initiatives in various spheres have sprouted from it. 

One remarkable aspect of the movement is the dedication and commitment of large number of youth who are seldom appreciated or celebrated. At Kairos too, the amount of work we do and the hardships we endure to bring out the various magazines, and the varied related responsibilities are scarcely noticed, understood or appreciated. This is true for most of the people associated with the movement, though there are a few exceptions.

The thirty-fifth anniversary of Jesus Youth – the Coral Jubilee is here. While celebrating it and acknowledging the providence of God in its journey, this is also a time to recollect and reflect on whether any course correction is needed for the movement. 

Are we still dynamic and creative enough to cater to the needs of today’s youth and teenagers?

Is the youth movement becoming more and more institutionalised and losing focus?

Is there a need to rediscover the original simplicity in policies, activities, leadership and relationships? These are some questions to ponder while efforts are made in furthering initiatives.

Wishing each of you a meaningful Coral Jubilee and a Merry Christmas.

The Christmas Gift

Dear Readers, this month we are reaching out to all our patrons with a massive ‘Christmas Gift’. We encourage each of you to make use of it and introduce it to as many people as possible. Details are given on pages 46 to 48.

Kairos Buds

We are also releasing a new magazine for 3-13 year-olds – Kairos Buds. This new English magazine intends to reach out to children the world over. Along with Kairos Buds, Kairos Buds Diary is also being made available which we hope will accompany our children in their faith journey. We seek your prayers, blessings, encouragement and support.