Over 600 young people from across Northeast India gathered at the Don Bosco Institute (DBI) Joypur in Kharguli, Guwahati, for the 18th edition of Youth Pasch, a four-day Easter-themed retreat centered on prayer, reflection, and fellowship.
The retreat, which began on April 16, offers a vibrant program designed to deepen participants' understanding of the Paschal Mystery. Activities such as labyrinth prayer gardens, Seder meals, faith-sharing groups, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation create an atmosphere of renewal, trust, and community.
A highlight of the retreat was the solemn observance of Holy Thursday, commemorating the Last Supper of Jesus with His disciples. The ceremony was officiated by Guwahati Provincial Fr. Sebastian Kurcheeyil, along with DBI founder and former director Fr. V. M. Thomas, current Executive Director Fr. Cletus, and nine other concelebrating priests.
Held in a packed hall, the two-and-a-half-hour service featured a moving dramatization of seven key scenes from the Passion narrative, including: the preparation for the sacred meal, the Washing of the Feet, the Institution of the Eucharist, the Agony in the Garden, the Betrayal of Jesus, and the tragic aftermath of Judas's suicide.
"Walking through each scene, from the Washing of the Feet to Judas’s betrayal, gave me a deeper understanding of Christ’s love and sacrifice,” said a first-time participant from Arunachal Pradesh.
"The dramatization of the Last Supper was incredibly moving. It felt like witnessing history unfold before my eyes," added a young woman from Meghalaya.
Despite a brief disruption caused by loud music from a neighboring residence, which temporarily forced organizers to adjust the venue for some ceremonies, the spirit of the retreat remained strong. Local authorities intervened promptly, ensuring that the event continued peacefully.
"We are truly grateful to the authorities for stepping in. Their action allowed us to continue our observances without further distractions," said a participant from Nagaland.
The Holy Thursday observances concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist, followed by an uplifting session of praise and worship. The evening ended with an hour-long Adoration, bringing a prayerful close to the day’s events at 11:00 PM.
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