The first-ever Jesus Youth National Conference, "Encounter 2024," took place from December 13-15, 2024, at Fatima Rani Catholic Church in Bandarban, Chittagong Archdiocese. The event attracted 250 participants from seven dioceses across Bangladesh. With the theme "Encounter," the conference aligned with the upcoming Jubilee Pilgrims of Hope 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Jesus Youth movement in the region.
The conference began with registration on December 12 and was packed with a variety of spiritual activities. The opening day featured Mass celebrated by Father Sumon Peter Costa, followed by a video message from Bishop Subrato Boniface Gomez. Sessions on "Encounter with Christ" by Father Patrick Shimon Gomez and "Father's Love" by Mr. John Tripura offered participants deep reflections on their faith. The schedule also included Bible quizzes, team activities, and a touching testimony from Mr. Tias Victor Palma about his experiences with Uganda missions.
On the second day, Archbishop Lawrence Subroto Howlader led an important session on "Sin, Repentance & Confession," followed by Father Palash Henry Gomez's discussion on "Inner Healing." Jesus Youth full-timer Pranti Ribero shared a personal testimony, and Father Terrence Rodriguez conducted a session on "Salvation." The day also included a Christmas greeting rally and cultural performances, further enriching the experience.
The conference concluded on the final day with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Howlader and a closing ceremony that emphasized youth empowerment, education, and environmental awareness. Throughout the event, participants actively engaged in regular prayer, action songs, and other spiritual activities. Many attendees reported profound spiritual experiences, with renewed commitment to their faith journey, particularly in Bible reading and prayer practices.
The event wrapped up on December 15 after lunch, with participants departing with a strengthened spiritual purpose and a deeper religious understanding. "Encounter 2024" proved to be a transformative experience, fostering spiritual growth and deepening the connection between participants and their faith.
