Salem Diocesan Youth Ignite Faith at “Life in the Spirit” Retreat in Yercaud

YERCAUD, Tamil Nadu, February 20, 2025— A two-day Life in the Spirit retreat for youth from the Salem Diocese was held from February 14 to 16, 2025, at San Jose Estate, Yercaud. Designed to deepen the participants' connection with the Holy Spirit, the retreat witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 35 young boys and girls.

The event featured renowned speakers, including Most Rev. S. Singaroyan, Bishop Emeritus of Salem Diocese, Fr. Joseph Sagayaraj (Sambalpur Diocese), Fr. Austin Joy MSFS, Fr. Messiah (Salem Diocese), Br. Victor, Br. Wilson, and members of the YU4C team.

A Spirit-Filled Journey Begins

The retreat commenced on the evening of February 14 with a Holy Adoration session led by Rev. Fr. Singarayan, Parish Priest of Boomanur. Participants of the retreat were divided into four groups, each offering special prayers for the Salem Diocese. The day concluded with night prayer and rest.

Day Two: Deepening Spiritual Awareness

On February 15, the morning began with an uplifting praise and worship session conducted by the prayer team.

The first talk of the day, from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, was delivered by Bp. S. Singaroyan, who spoke about God’s immense love and the role of the Holy Spirit in one’s life. This was followed by Fr. Messiah’s impactful session on Sins in Modern Media and Its Effects on Youth, highlighting the dangers of digital influences.

In the afternoon, Fr. Austin Joy MSFS led a session on The Benefits of Confession. During the session, he shed light on the difference Between Confession and Counseling, helping participants gain deeper clarity on spiritual healing. A powerful Adoration session followed, led by Fr. Joseph Sagayaraj, during which participants had the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confession. The evening concluded with an inner healing session from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, before participants retired for the night.

Final Day: A Baptism of the Spirit

On February 16, each of the four participant groups led a praise and worship session from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM. This was followed by a session on The Baptism of the Holy Spirit, conducted by Br. Wilson from YU4C.

The highlight of the day was the Holy Mass, celebrated by Fr. Joseph Sagayaraj, which also included a special inner healing session.

As the retreat concluded, Ms. Jeni and Ms. Freda delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the organizers and speakers. An interactive session with the Carmelite Convent Sisters provided participants with additional spiritual insights before they departed for Salem, renewed and spiritually uplifted.

By Steve Antao