On October 19, 2024, the Jesus Youth movement held an inspiring International Mission Gathering over Zoom that brought together leaders and mission coordinators from across the globe. The gathering featured an insightful session led by Dr. Sindhu Nataraj, focusing on this year’s World Mission Day theme: “Go out and invite everyone to the banquet.” She stressed on the need to foster greater connection with local communities, adapt to unique cultural needs, and effectively support young people in leading Christ-centered lives.

Following this session, updates from various international mission projects were shared, reflecting the movement’s growth and impact across continents. A particular focus was placed on the critical role of mission teams within Jesus Youth, whose efforts drive the movement’s mission of evangelization and service.

I am also overjoyed to share a recent milestone in Africa—the Jesus Youth Mission’s visit to Nigeria, a country with vast potential for spiritual growth and transformation. Santosh Mathew, Coordinator for the African Mission Team and Tony George from the African Mission Team, visited the Diocese of Katsina in northern Nigeria on October 25, 2024. The visit began with a warm welcome by Most Rev. Gerald Mamman Musa, Bishop of Katsina, who has been a strong supporter of Jesus Youth’s mission in Africa. Around 150 parishioners gathered at the Cathedral for an evening program that included Holy Mass, cultural dances, and an introduction to the Jesus Youth mission. Bishop Musa spoke on the movement’s values, while Santosh and Tony shared the vision of Jesus Youth and its commitment to empowering youth through faith.

The mission team’s second day in Katsina saw them travel two hours to a youth gathering that drew approximately 250 young people, some of whom had journeyed up to 20 hours from distant regions. With the bishop’s encouragement, the event provided the youth with teachings, interaction, and fellowship, culminating in a focused session for 28 selected leaders. These young leaders discussed strategies for expanding Jesus Youth in Nigeria, particularly through local leadership development and mission activities.

The weekend concluded on Sunday with Santosh and Tony addressing over 1,000 parishioners across two Masses at the Cathedral, where they spoke about the Jesus Youth mission, lay vocations, and the global impact of the movement. The mission was made possible by the diligent efforts of local leaders Joseph Usman, James, and Angela, who had been laying the groundwork for months. A core team has been formed in Nigeria, with Tony George overseeing activities as Jesus Youth works to expand its presence in Nigeria’s dioceses, including Katsina and Yola. Plans to bring full-time volunteers and One Month Mission (OMM) families to the region are also underway, further solidifying the mission’s foundation.

With Nigeria’s Christian population of 40 million, the movement sees a profound opportunity to engage the country’s rapidly growing youth demographic, inviting them to a life of faith, service, and community. The movement also celebrates Nigeria’s strong representation in the recent Synod in Rome, underscoring its vibrant spiritual landscape. Jesus Youth remains committed to fostering a dynamic, Eucharist-centered missionary spirit in Nigeria and across Africa, empowering young people to live out the Gospel in their everyday lives.

This journey is a testament to Jesus Youth’s enduring commitment to Africa, with prayers and efforts focused on a bright future for youth across the continent. Stay tuned for more updates as the mission continues to unfold!