Providence on the Mission: National Leaders Learning Program Concludes with a Powerful Lesson in Trust

The *National Leaders Learning Program, held in Shillong, concluded on *12 July 2026 with a solemn Commissioning Holy Mass celebrated by *Fr. Saji, the National Chaplain of Jesus Youth India. The Eucharistic celebration was graced by the presence of *Sunny Gudino, National Coordinator of Jesus Youth India, marking a fitting end to days of prayer, formation, fellowship, and leadership development.

The program brought together 21 young leaders, primarily from the North East, along with a few participants from other states. With an almost equal number of young men and women, the gathering reflected the vibrant diversity of the Jesus Youth movement. During the commissioning, the participants renewed their commitment to carry the love of Christ to their respective regions with greater zeal, courage, and missionary enthusiasm.

Throughout the program, God’s providence was evident in many ways. Although a few scheduled resource persons were unable to attend due to unexpected illness and other unforeseen circumstances, timely alternate arrangements ensured that every session was conducted smoothly. The participants experienced a well-organized and grace-filled program that strengthened their faith and vision for mission.

The most unforgettable lesson, however, came after the official program had ended.

As participants and resource persons began their return journeys, those travelling towards Guwahati expected to reach the airport in about two and a half hours. One group had a flight scheduled for 8:00 p.m. and had planned to arrive by 6:00 p.m., allowing enough time to have dinner before boarding.

But nature had other plans.

Heavy rains lashed the region, triggering landslides and widespread waterlogging. Traffic came to a standstill at several points, with vehicles inching forward for hours. Even by 6:00 p.m., the group was still far from the airport. It seemed almost certain that they would miss their flight. Some fellow travellers, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere, even joked about where they would spend the night.

At that crucial moment, the driver chose an alternate route through forest roads and less-travelled paths. What appeared impossible slowly became possible. Against all odds, the vehicle entered the airport premises at 7:10 p.m.—the very time when the boarding gates were due to close. It was a breathtaking moment that many could only describe as God’s providential intervention.

Another group that had started the journey at the same time was not able to take the alternate route and reached Guwahati only at *1:00 a.m., nearly *six hours later. Thankfully, everyone arrived safely at their destinations.

The National Leaders Learning Program concluded not only with a commissioning but also with a living testimony. For everyone involved, the experience became a powerful reminder that mission is sustained not merely by planning and preparation, but by unwavering trust in God. Even when the road ahead seems blocked and circumstances appear impossible, God continues to guide, provide, and make a way.

As the newly commissioned leaders return to their homes and missions, they carry with them a lasting conviction: when we are on God’s mission, our dependence on Him should never diminish—not even for a single moment.