Jesus Youth

Jesus Youth (JY) is an International Catholic Movement, approved by the Holy See.

[1] On 20 May 2016, it was granted recognition by the Vatican as an international private association of the faithful with juridical personality.

[2] The movement follows a lifestyle modelled on the life of Jesus Christ, based on what it calls 'six pillars', namely, Prayer, Word of God , Sacramental Life, Fellowship, evangelization and Preferential option for the poor"[3] JY had its beginnings in Kerala, India in 1976.

On August 20, 2007, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India recognized JY as a national association of the faithful on October 29, 2008.

[4] On 29 October 2008, JY received approval from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) and Archbishop Abraham Viruthakulangara was appointed as the Ecclesiastical Advisor.

JY is known for its spirituality that promotes an active Catholic lifestyle that is relevant to a young layperson facing the challenges of life.

The formation teams work together to develop the ministry and engage in the apostolate, provide mutual support and promote spiritual growth.

A JY ministry is usually the initiative of an individual or a small fellowship, and normally tries to share Jesus in a particular context, using one's talent.

[13] JY Fulltimership is a year-long formation program for graduates with 40 days of training and one-year full-time missionary commitment to work in different parts of the world.

It started in 1991 when a Jesus Youth felt an inner call to commit life completely for one year to be a missionary with JY.

After consultation with the leaders and elders of the movement he launched himself into this new journey, visiting people and places and challenging young minds in campuses and parishes across Kerala.

The circle stands for the world where the youth are firmly rooted, receive graces and then pass them on.