‘You All Are Leaders’ – Dr. Stephen Alathara at YCS/YSM National Training Programme

Delhi, 22 May 2025: In a powerful address at the National YCS/YSM Leadership Training Programme, Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), ignited the spirits of young leaders. Speaking to one hundred YCS/YSM members at the Shofar Convention Centre on 21 May 2025, Dr. Stephen Alathara delivered a compelling message emphasising personal growth, service to others, and spiritual development.

Dr. Stephen Alathara’s central message resonated deeply with the young audience: "You are all leaders." He stressed that while individual growth is crucial, the true essence of leadership lies in "how we add beauty and meaning to the lives of others." He encouraged the students to prioritise their personal development, recognising that a strong individual foundation empowers them to help others live better and more meaningful lives. Above all, he emphasised the importance of genuine passion, stating that we must love the work we do.

The address also highlighted the indispensable role of spiritual growth, describing it as an essential part of who we are. Dr. Stephen Alathara underscored that a happy and fulfilled life stems from strong relationships with God and with the people around us.

Drawing inspiration from the life of Pope Leo XIII, a figure known for his deep faith and unwavering commitment to his mission, Dr. Stephen Alathara presented two key values for every YCS/YSM student:

Social Revelation: Understanding the world around us and responding with compassion and justice.

Missionary Activities: Going beyond ourselves to reach out and serve others with love and purpose.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Stephen Alathara issued a powerful call to action: "YCS/YSM students, you are not just leaders within the movement. Your role is to form and inspire new leaders through YCS/YSM." His words left the young leaders with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear vision for their impact on both their communities and the broader world.

By Anson Nazareth