Faith in Unity: A Reflection on the 2024 MCYMNA Conference

The 2024 Malankara Catholic Youth Movement of North America (MCYMNA) Conference, held from August 1 to 4 in Austin, Texas, was a spirited gathering that brought together young people from across North America to celebrate faith, community, and culture. The weekend unfolded as a tapestry of prayer, fellowship, and joyful exploration of the Malankara Catholic identity.

Opening Day: Laying the Foundation of Friendship

The conference began on Thursday evening with a warm and lively welcome. Icebreakers, including a scavenger hunt and a relaxed movie night, set the tone for the weekend, fostering connections among participants and building an atmosphere of camaraderie. These moments became the foundation for the meaningful interactions and spiritual reflections that followed.

Friday: Enriching Minds and Strengthening Bonds

Friday’s schedule was a vibrant mix of activities that catered to both the mind and spirit. Matt and Linda Kuriakose shared an engaging talk on balancing faith with relationships, addressing questions many young Catholics face today. The basketball tournament that followed highlighted teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.

Later, a period of Adoration offered a serene moment for introspection, creating a bridge between the day’s lively discussions and evening fellowship. The Chai and Chat panel delved into contemporary topics, encouraging open conversations and active engagement with the challenges and opportunities of living faith-filled lives. As the day concluded, team games and informal social gatherings reinforced the sense of community.

Saturday: Anchored in Faith and Tradition

Saturday unfolded as a day of spiritual renewal and cultural celebration. Rev. Fr. Jerin Mathew’s profound session encouraged attendees to look inward, guiding them toward self-reflection and preparation for the sacrament of confession. The day’s Holy Mass was followed by an insightful presentation by Samson Zachariah and Jeny Chacko, who explored the Malankara Catholic Church’s history and traditions, inspiring attendees to deepen their connection with their heritage.

The afternoon transitioned to a spirited volleyball tournament and an outdoor Texas BBQ picnic, celebrating the joy of community through food and fun. As the sun set, the energy soared during a concert by Prodigyl, a Malayalee-American rapper, and a lively dance party featuring DJ CUB3D, creating memories that balanced joy and faith seamlessly.

Sunday: A Heartfelt Conclusion

The final day of the conference began with the celebration of the Holy Qurbono, presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, who shared words of encouragement and faith. During the closing ceremony, gratitude overflowed as leaders acknowledged the hard work of the MCYMNA Board members, animators, and volunteers. Tournament champions were honoured, and the conference unveiled exciting initiatives, including the design for MCYMNA’s 25th anniversary and the introduction of the inaugural Malankara Catholic podcast, “Tea with Thomas”.

A Testament to Faith and Community

The conference theme, “Malankara Mentality,” inspired participants to centre their lives on God, embrace discipline, and practice love and compassion toward others. Each session, activity, and interaction became a reminder of God’s grace and the shared journey of the Malankara Catholic community.

With 196 participants, including clergy, sisters, and youth from across the continent, the conference became a beacon of hope and renewal. The Diocese commends the MCYMNA leaders for their prayerful dedication and servant leadership, ensuring the event was both spiritually fruitful and logistically seamless.

The 2024 MCYMNA Conference was more than a weekend gathering—it was a reaffirmation of faith, an exploration of heritage, and a celebration of unity. It strengthened bonds among the Malankara Catholic youth and left an enduring impression of joy, faith, and commitment to living as true witnesses of Christ.