Shillong Notes – 2

Today we’re part of the National Leaders Learning Program. There are more than 20 participants from different parts of India, with many coming from the North Eastern states. One thing that really stands out is their genuine desire to grow—both spiritually and as leaders. It’s beautiful to see people who are so eager to learn, share, and deepen their relationship with God.

The program is being held at the Rural Training Centre, run by the Don Bosco Salesian Fathers. The campus is surrounded by lush farmland, and surprisingly, it reminds me so much of Kerala. The greenery, the peaceful atmosphere, and even the weather—with occasional showers throughout the day—make it feel like home.

Our day began with the Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Saji, the Jesus Youth National Chaplain. Since today is Dukrana, the Feast of St. Thomas, his homily was especially meaningful. He encouraged everyone not to be afraid of asking questions about their faith. Just as St. Thomas sought clarity before believing, we too should seek answers to our doubts instead of hiding them. A faith that asks honest questions often becomes a stronger faith.

To explain this, Fr. Saji shared a beautiful experience from the Jesus Youth Jubilee Conference in 2010, where around 22,000 people had gathered.

On the final day of the conference, a young man came to Fr. Saji asking to go for confession. He shared something that had been weighing on his heart. The previous day, he had prayed, asking God for a sign to strengthen his faith. His prayer was simple: if God was truly present, let it rain during the conference.

Just before the final music program began, heavy rain poured down. While it disrupted the scheduled event, something even more beautiful happened. Instead of being disappointed, thousands of young people spontaneously began to pray and worship. The rain became a moment of grace rather than an interruption.

Fr. Saji concluded with a powerful reminder: God cares deeply for each one of us. Sometimes, He is willing to move heaven and earth just to touch the heart of a single person. That story was a beautiful reminder that no prayer is too small and no person is too insignificant for God’s loving attention.

The day’s learning sessions were led by Ad. Raiju Varghese, and they were engaging, practical, and thought-provoking. His way of connecting spiritual lessons with real-life experiences made the sessions both effective and inspiring.

The music and prayer sessions were beautifully led by Neil. His joyful spirit and prayerful leadership helped create an atmosphere where everyone could genuinely encounter God.

Looking back, today was a beautiful blend of learning, prayer, fellowship, and quiet moments of encountering God. Grateful for every conversation, every session, and every reminder that God continues to lead us, one step at a time.

Dr Chackochan Njavallil

From the building where the program is taking place