National Youth Convention WITNESS 2026, Bengaluru
“TAKE COURAGE! I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD”
Nine youth council members representing the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese participated in the National Youth Convention WITNESS 2026, held in Bengaluru from 13 to 16 October 2026. Guided by the inspiring theme, “Take Courage! I Have Overcome the World,” the convention brought together young people from different regions to deepen their faith, encounter Christ, strengthen their spiritual lives, and renew their commitment to witnessing the Gospel.
Representing the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese were Ronnie Ashish Raj, Regional President and representative of the Simla-Chandigarh Diocesan Youth Commission from Karnal Deanery; James and Ashish from Karnal Deanery; James Baxla from Shimla Deanery; Sanjana and Magdalina from Chandigarh Deanery; Noor and Bicky from Bathinda Deanery; and Anisha from Patiala Deanery.
The four-day convention began on 13 October with registration, flag hoisting, the Eucharistic Celebration, and the inaugural ceremony. The opening day set the tone for the days ahead, inviting the participants to come together in faith, fellowship, and a shared mission of Christian witness.
The second day, 14 October, began with morning prayer and Eucharistic Adoration, followed by praise and worship, interactive sessions, and the celebration of Holy Mass. Participants also took part in a group session and a solemn Rosary with a Marian procession. The day concluded with The Chosen Experience and a Gospel band programme, offering opportunities for prayer, reflection, and fellowship.
On 15 October, the convention continued with praise and worship, interactive sessions, and a special session on inner healing. The participants were further invited to experience God’s mercy through Divine Mercy Adoration and the Sacrament of Confession. The day’s spiritual journey continued with a Taizé session and prayer, followed by an evening of music and fellowship.
The final day, 16 October, included morning prayer and Adoration, testimony sharing, and the Holy Mass with the commissioning ceremony. The convention concluded with the valedictory ceremony, followed by the lowering of the flag and the departure of the participants.
For the nine youth council members from the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese, WITNESS 2026 was a meaningful opportunity to grow in faith, encounter Christ more deeply, and experience the universality of the Church through prayer, fellowship, and shared faith experiences with young people from across the country. The convention encouraged them to carry the message of Christ into their respective deaneries and communities and to become courageous witnesses of the Gospel in their daily lives.
Their participation reflects the continued commitment of the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese to nurturing young leaders who are rooted in Christ and ready to serve the Church with dedication, enthusiasm, and missionary zeal.
With renewed faith and courage, the youth return to their respective deaneries, inspired to live the message of WITNESS 2026: to take courage in Christ and to bear witness to His love wherever they go.
Ronnie Ashish Raj
Regional President, Youth
Youth Representative, Simla-Chandigarh Diocese - Commission for Youth
