The Jesus Youth (JY) ministry in Timor Leste, with roots extending further back, has seen significant growth since 2015. Centered in Dili, the capital city, the Campus Ministry is particularly vibrant, establishing a presence across more than six major college campuses. This initiative has made a profound impact on the youth in the region.
A standout feature of the ministry is its annual retreat, Hesed, which provides young people with a powerful encounter with Jesus. Over the past two years, the retreat has attracted more than 350 participants, reflecting the growing interest and engagement among the youth. Additionally, Sunday prayer meetings draw a substantial number of young people from various regions and campuses, fostering their spiritual journeys.
Regular initiatives to connect with young people through music and audiovisual media are also being implemented, further enhancing outreach efforts. The ministry's growth in Timor Leste is largely attributed to the unwavering dedication of Sr. Julie and the team of full-time volunteers.
To bolster its mission, a JY family has recently been stationed in Timor Leste, aiming to support ongoing growth and outreach to even more young individuals in the country.