The National Youth Sunday Celebration 2026 was joyfully and meaningfully celebrated in various parishes of the Diocese with the active participation of young people, parish communities, the Diocesan Youth Director (DYD), and the Executive Members of the Miao Diocesan Youth Association (MDYA).
The celebrations were organized on different dates according to the convenience and pastoral programmes of the respective parishes. The main purpose of the celebration was to bring together the young people of the Church, strengthen their faith, encourage their active participation in the life and mission of the Church, and inspire them to become responsible and committed members of society.
The celebration was centred on the National Youth Sunday theme: “Take Courage, I Have Overcome the World” (Jn 16:33).
The theme reminded the young people that, in the midst of the many struggles, challenges, uncertainties, and difficulties they face in life, they are called to place their trust in Jesus Christ. Christ's victory over sin and death gives courage and hope to every young person to face life with faith, confidence, and perseverance. Through this celebration, the youth were encouraged to remain strong in their Christian faith and to become witnesses of hope, peace, love, and unity in the world.
The DYD and MDYA Executive Members visited and participated in the celebrations of neighbouring parishes, accompanying the young people and encouraging them in their journey of faith. During the gatherings, they explained the importance and purpose of National Youth Sunday, highlighting the significant role of young people in the Church and society. The youth were reminded that they are not merely the future of the Church but are also an important and active part of the Church today.
Special emphasis was given to the participation of young people in different areas of Church life, such as the Holy Mass, liturgy, prayer services, youth associations, charitable activities, evangelization, cultural programmes, and various pastoral initiatives. They were also encouraged to become responsible citizens who contribute positively to the development of society by promoting peace, harmony, justice, unity, and love.
In several parishes, the celebration was made more lively and joyful through various activities and competitions. These included dance, singing, games, youth talks, sharing sessions, and other cultural and recreational programmes. These activities provided the young people with an opportunity to express their talents, strengthen fellowship, develop teamwork, and build unity among themselves.
The youth talks and interactions also helped the participants to reflect on their responsibilities as young Catholics. They were encouraged to take an active role in the Church, to participate regularly in parish activities, and to become good examples to other young people through their words and actions. The gatherings also created opportunities for sharing ideas, discussing the challenges faced by today's youth, and finding ways to respond to these challenges with faith and courage.
The National Youth Sunday celebrations were held in the following parishes:
● 9 August 2026 – Ngissa Parish
● 9 August 2026 – Borduria Parish
● 9 August 2026 – Neotan Parish
● 9 August 2026 – Manmao Parish
● 16 August 2026 – Kolam Parish
● 16 August 2026 – Lawnu Parish
● 16 August 2026 – Dadam Parish
● 16 August 2026 – Wakka Parish
● 16 August 2026 – Rajanagar Parish
● 22 August 2026 – Kanubari Parish
● 23 August 2026 – Tissa Parish
● 23 August 2026 – Roing Parish
● 23 August 2026 – Kumari Parish
● 30 August 2026 – Deomali Parish
● 30 August 2026 – Mintong Parish
● 30 August 2026 – Miao Parish
Overall, the celebration of National Youth Sunday 2026 in the different parishes was a meaningful and enriching experience for the young people. The presence and participation of the DYD and MDYA Executive Members strengthened the spirit of unity and collaboration among the youth of the Diocese.
The celebration served as an important reminder that young people have a vital role to play in both the Church and society. Inspired by the words of Jesus, “Take Courage, I Have Overcome the World,” the young people were encouraged to face the future with hope and courage, rooted in faith and committed to building a better world.
May the celebration of National Youth Sunday continue to inspire the youth of the Diocese to grow in faith, unity, service, and leadership, and to become courageous witnesses of Christ wherever they are called to serve.
Sr. Theresa Phephot FMA, Diocesan Youth Director, Diocese of Miao