Approximately 500 members of the international Catholic movement Jesus Youth gathered in Schoenstatt, Germany, from July 30 to August 2 for their first national conference. Under the motto “Lumen – Let Your Light Shine” (Mt 5:16), young people, adults, and families spent days of prayer, formation, and spiritual renewal at the International Center of the Schoenstatt Movement, while also celebrating 20 years of the movement’s presence in Germany.
Throughout the gathering, participants—most of whom were of Indian origin—deepened their experience of faith through Holy Mass, Eucharistic adoration, conferences, testimonies, music, and moments of fraternal fellowship.
Speakers and presenters included leaders such as Manoj Sunny (International Director of Formation for Jesus Youth and Secretary General), Auxiliary Bishop of Cologne Dr. Dominikus Schwaderlapp, and Sophia Kuby (ADF International).
The relic of St. Carlo Acutis accompanied the entire program and was brought to the Original Shrine, where many entrusted their intentions to the Mother Thrice Admirable.
Our Mother and Queen drew many young hearts
Sr. M. Nobel Jose Ponmalakkunnel, from the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary and originally from India, attended the event and expressed her joy at seeing so many people gathered around the Shrine.
“I am very happy to be part of this great event. I can joyfully say that our Mother and Queen drew many young hearts to and around the Shrine,” she said.
The conference opened with Holy Mass and the traditional lighting of the lamp, a gesture common in Indian culture that symbolizes the light of Christ. Inspired by the Gospel—“Let your light shine before men” (Mt 5:16)—the gathering invited participants to receive that light, be renewed by it, and carry it into the world.
Sr. M. Nobel explains: “This movement is rooted in prayer, love of neighbor, and a spirit of mission. They deeply believe and trust that the Eucharistic Lord is everything. The music and choir profoundly moved the hearts of the faithful, touched by God. I would also like to highlight that the atmosphere of this movement is free, immaculate, pure, genuine, open, and faithful. They truly believe and proclaim that life is a gift from God and that we must share it with others. The presence of many priests and sisters made the event even more filled with grace.”
What is “Jesus Youth”?
Founded in 1985 in Kerala, India, Jesus Youth is a Catholic movement recognized by the Holy See since 2016 and present in more than 40 countries. Its spirituality rests on six pillars: daily prayer, the Word of God, the sacraments, community, service, and evangelization.
During these days in Schoenstatt, it became evident that faith lived in community awakens hope and strengthens mission. Around the Original Shrine, young people from different cultures found a space to renew their encounter with Christ and to allow themselves to be sent once again as light for the world.
For more information: jesusyouth.org
