Chosen 2026 – Mission Exposure Summary

Chosen 2026 was much more than a retreat—it was a life-changing journey of faith, fellowship, mission, and personal transformation. From the moment we arrived and were welcomed with traditional Khasi shawls, we experienced the warmth and love of the local community.

The retreat began with vibrant praise and worship, inspiring sessions by Fr. Thushar and Vinish Chetan on God’s unconditional love and our unique identity, followed by a profound experience of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharistic Adoration. As the days unfolded, sessions on the Holy Spirit, chastity, mentorship, and Holy Mass helped the teens deepen their relationship with Christ while building genuine friendships with one another.

A memorable highlight was our visit to the Minor Seminary, where we shared songs, skits, and fellowship with the seminarians. The mission outreach in the villages of Cherrapunji became the heart of the experience. Divided into small groups, the teens encountered families, shared God’s love, prayed together, and witnessed the beauty of simple, faith-filled lives. It was a powerful reminder that mission is about presence, love, and humility.

The journey also included moments of recreation and wonder as we explored Mawsmai Cave, Daithlen Waterfalls, the Don Bosco Museum, and participated in a joyful flash mob evangelization in the city. Visiting the grave of Fr. Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh offered a moment of gratitude and inspiration, reminding us of lives lived wholeheartedly for the Gospel.

By the end of the mission, strangers had become family. The retreat nurtured deeper faith, lasting friendships, servant leadership, and a renewed desire to live as joyful witnesses of Christ. Chosen 2026 was not simply an event but an unforgettable encounter with God that will continue to shape the lives of every participant.

This beautiful journey brought together 31 teenagers from the Middle East, one foster family, four youth volunteers, two family volunteers, one elder from India, one priest from India, and the dedicated local Jesus Youth volunteers, whose love and service made the entire experience meaningful and memorable.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Saji Stephen, Jesus Youth India Chaplain, for opening the doors to this incredible mission experience, and to Sunny Gudihno, Jesus Youth India Coordinator, along with the entire India team, for their unwavering support, guidance, and hospitality. We are equally grateful to the Shillong Jesus Youth team and every volunteer who served tirelessly behind the scenes. Thank you for giving our teens a beautiful opportunity to encounter Christ, experience mission firsthand, and carry home a renewed passion to serve His Kingdom.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to our dedicated organizing team from the Middle East. A special thank you to Soorya (Kuwait) and Jees (Qatar) for their leadership and commitment throughout the planning and execution of this mission. Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to Moses, Elizabeth, Merin, Tessy, and Dominic for their invaluable service, dedication, and countless hours of preparation that made this experience possible.

We are equally grateful for the constant guidance and overall support of Suja, Rajeev, and Wilma, whose encouragement, coordination, and behind-the-scenes efforts ensured that every aspect of Chosen 2026 was carried out smoothly. Together, this committed team became an instrument in creating a truly life-changing mission experience for our teens. May God abundantly bless each one for their generous service and unwavering commitment to His Kingdom.

Most Rev. Dennis Panipitchai, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Miao, and Most Rev. John Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati, visited the participants and encouraged them through their inspiring words and pastoral presence.

Testimonies

I’m Alfin Staju Stanley, and it would be a great opportunity for me to be a part of Chosen 2026. This is my first experience with the program. My parents gave me this opportunity as my 14th birthday gift.

Through this experience, I had the chance to be with fellow youth in adoration, Holy Mass, and life-sharing sessions. I came to know people who are living in very difficult situations, and I have decided that, in my life, I will help such people as much as I can.

I also received the opportunity to share the Word of God with others.

My dream is to become a priest, and I believe this experience will serve as a strong foundation for my priesthood. I thank God Almighty for giving me this chance to be part of this mission.

I also extend my thanks to Subinchettan and my friends for their support.

God bless 🙏
Alfin Staju Stanley

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It was Beautful! Exiting! and Great!
These are the perfect words to describe the magical days I feel grateful to God for blessing me with. A big ‘Thank you’ to all my fellow friends, coordinators and the people who prayed for us.

• Adam Chris, Oman

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Building on my previous mission in Kolkata, my trip to Shillong deeply transformed my heart. Our core goal was to grow closer to God while spreading His Word to people from all walks of life.

​Every day was filled with activities, charity work, Holy Mass, and praise and worship. As our voices grew stronger together in worship, I honestly felt goosebumps. During Mass, Father Tushar delivered a heart-touching homily that moved me deeply—it helped me realize that I must forgive others, just as my Abba Father forgives me every time I sin.

​Out in the field, two experiences really stood out. First, going on a village visit in Cherrapunji opened my eyes to how simple life can be and made me realize just how abundantly blessed I am. Second, visiting the deaf and hard-of-hearing students for a Christian program was an absolute highlight—they were so cool, fun, and full of joy, proving that God’s love goes beyond language.

​Ultimately, this mission helped me mature, taught me self-discipline, brought me much closer to my Christian faith, and gave me a renewed passion to share God’s Word wherever I go.

​-Elroi sijo, Oman

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Praise the Lord
During our ten-day mission trip to Shillong and Chirapunji, I truly felt the impact of God’s love.Going into the small villages and spending time with the local people was an incredible experience.Even though the journey was tiring and the rain was heavy, the villagers welcomed us warmly. Seeing how happy they were despite having so little completely changed my perspective and taught me to stop taking things for granted.It was also my first time speaking to a stranger about Jesus and His words. That experience inspired me to talk more about Jesus and share the Word of God.

Since coming back home, I’ve found myself much more grateful for the simple, everyday blessings — a warm bed, good food, and my family — that I used to overlook. And I thank Jesus for letting me experience this mission.

Samuel Jacob Sanju, Dubai

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The Mission Exposure Program was truly blessed. The retreats were enriching, and the Adoration helped us come closer to Jesus and surrender ourselves to Him. The seminary visit taught us the value of discipline and respect that we should carry in our lives. The village visit was truly insightful—meeting the people, understanding their lives, and realizing how grateful we should be to God. Though they did not have the best provisions, they were still together, stayed happy, did not complain, and maintained their small houses neatly and tidily. All they longed for was good health, a happy life, and to deepen their faith. The one-to-one evangelisation in the bazaar was awesome—meeting random people, approaching them, and telling them about Jesus and His love. It also taught us to face rejection and still not lose hope. Overall, the whole experience strengthened my faith and brought me closer to God.

Emmanuel Job Antony SD

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This was my first mission exposure programme, and I feel so blessed that I said “yes” to CHOSEN 26.
Honestly, I had no idea what to expect when I started my journey from home. When I reached the place, I felt uncomfortable and unsure.

But my mindset changed completely in just one day. When I fell sick, I was cared for with so much love — like I was at my own home, with my parents. Seeing the other kids and families during the village visit in Shillong made me realize how blessed I am with everything I have. I will always be thankful to my Jesus for His love and blessings. I’m eagerly waiting for CHOSEN 27

With love 🩷
Abel Joys Sajo, SD

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Praise the Lord!

Dear everyone,

We started our journey on 5th July with a lot of excitement, but also with many questions and uncertainties. We didn’t really know what to expect in the days ahead. At first, I thought it would simply be a trip with my friends. But as the departure date came closer, I realized that it was much more than just a journey—it was going to be a life-changing experience.

We began our journey together with our friends and our Dona aunty. Though the travel was long, tiring, and filled with sleepless nights, everything changed when we reached Guwahati. We received such a warm welcome from the parish priest, Kesiya chechi, Feba chechi and the entire team. From 7th July to 15th July, every single day was filled with excitement, joy, learning, and unforgetable moments.

Each day brought new experiences. Spending time in the midst of nature, going out for evangelization in the markets, interacting with people, playing games, sharing our lives, praying together, and participating in various activities—all of these made a deep impact in me. It was learning beyond the walls of a classroom or a hall. Every experience taught me something valuable and shaped me in a unique way.

Being part of Chosen 2026 has truly been a great privilege and an honor. One of the most touching moments for me was going out to the streets and markets, meeting ordinary people, and listening to their life stories. It made me realize how blessed and privileged I am. God has given me so much, and I became deeply grateful for every blessing in my life.

Kutty Alex was like my youngest sibling he always cherishing with his small activities and deeds.

I thank God wholeheartedly for these beautiful days and for every person He placed in this journey. I have many takeaways from Chosen 2026—lessons that I want to carry into my personal life, my family, my community, and wherever God leads me.

I sincerely thank all our senior leaders for their constant guidance, especially our Father Thushar achan,Sagi Achan, Dona Aunty , Elza Aunty, Linto Uncle and Ashna Aunty, and all the dear chetten’s and chechi’s, Your love, encouragement, and companionship made this journey truly unforgetable.

I pray that God continues to use us in His mission, and I hope we will have many more opportunities to serve Him together.

Thank you all.

Praise the Lord!

Stephen Cyriac Mathew SD

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This mission exposure has brought out in me a lot of new emotions and has drawn me alot closer to feel God’s love and his abundant blessings. This experience has given me the opportunity to be a lot more humbler before God. Going to each and every house in the village and praying for them has brought out immense joy in my heart and to realise that how much of grace the lord has brought upon my family. These 10 days has brought me an inspirational trip to remain in Christ’s love and to pray for others wellbeing. Overall with God’s grace, it was an amazing journey to make new friends and to get to know a different culture and its people better.

Serah sangeeth. Jebel Ali region

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It was a very blessed experience and I thank god for such an oppurtunity. In these 10 days I truley experienced God. Each and everything I learned there was life changing. Before the journey I often doubted my faith. But jesus knew me and brought me forward to him. This whole journey was worth leaving my comfort zone sailing closer to jesus. After visiting the village, I truley felt blesed for the life he has given me, which is filled love, care and all my desires. I hope in being a good misionary in the future. Praise Lord!!

Ron, UAE

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10 Day Teens Mission – Shillong, Meghalaya I reached a bit late due to technical issues, so I reached on the second day. Nothing much happened on the first day, so I didn’t miss anything. On the second day, we learnt about the Midrash technique- a technique used by jews to explain scriptures- and about the Prodigal Son. The priest also taught us about inner healing and adoration slightly. On the second day, we had a session about the body and maintain purity and chastity, after which we went to the chapel for the Holy Mass, where we heard about Jesus’ walk through Jericho and the significance of Barthemus calling out to the Lord. On the third day, we went on a morning walk, after which we had a Q&A session about what we learnt the previous day. We also played some games, and then attended Mass. We were also given some time to practice for a skit about the Prodigal Son. The priest also gave a session about the Holy Spirit. We then played the skit in front of the other kids. Although our skit wasn’t well made and lacked a crucial member, we had fun making it and it was enjoyable. On the fourth day, we learnt more about the Holy Spirit and about our body. We then played some games and prepared for the next day. On the fifth day, we went to a seminary to meet the students there and have fun with them. I was the emcee, so I prepared the games and skit with another girl, who was emceeing with me. After we arrived, we started hosting the whole event, with action songs, testimonies, games and a skit. It was lots of fun, and I was quite fascinated by the discipline of the seminarians. We then talked with the priest and returned to where we stayed. The days after were the mission days. On the first mission day, before we started, we prayed and prepared ourselves for the mission. We split ourselves into small groups, with Khasi translators to help us communicate with the villagers. The houses we went to were mostly living in poverty and troubles, but they were all still very faithful to God and very humble. It was truly a changing experience, and it taught me a lot about being grateful for what I have. The day after that, we went outside for a trip, to see the beautiful nature of Meghalaya. On the final mission day, we went to the Police Bazaar, the main shop in Shillong where almost everyone gathers to buy stuff, and started evangelizing. My group went to around 15-16 people but could only talk to 12. Most of the people weren’t Christians, but they were open to us and didn’t cause much trouble. We stayed in Shillong for 2 more days, but nothing eventful happened in those days. We then returned to Cochin after the mission.

Joel George, UAE.

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Going for this mission was truly God’s plan. At first, my parents refused to give me permission, and despite weeks of persuasion, nothing changed. Finally, I surrendered it to Jesus, asking Him to convince them if He truly wanted me to proclaim His Word. Miraculously, after some time, my parents told me they had already paid the money and that I would be going to Shillong for the mission trip. The moment I heard this, I was overjoyed, knowing it was God opening the way.

Once we arrived, the sessions were deeply enriching. What touched me most were Fr. Thushar’s sermons — his words carried such power that I often felt goosebumps listening to him. Another unforgettable moment was the village visit. Though the people had very little, their faces radiated joy and gratitude to the Lord. Their faith taught me to be thankful for what I have instead of constantly asking for more. It also showed me the beauty of praying for others with sincerity.

On the second-last day, the Bishop blessed us. As I knelt with his hand on my head and the hymn “Come Holy Spirit, Come” filled the room, I felt the living presence of the Holy Spirit. That moment sealed my conviction that this mission was God’s plan for me.
Finally, I want to thank my dear friends who walked this journey with me. Their laughter, encouragement, and companionship turned every moment into a memory I will cherish forever. Whether it was sharing meals, singing on the bus, or praying together, they made this mission trip not just a spiritual experience but also a celebration of friendship. I am truly grateful to God for blessing me with such wonderful people who made Chosen 2026 unforgettable.

Analisa, Qatar

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My Testimony Praise the Lord! My name is Anita, and I am studying in Grade 9. First of all, I thank God and everyone who made this Teens Mission Exposure possible. I am truly grateful for this opportunity to share my testimony. Before coming for this Teens Mission Exposure, I was never really close to God. I used to go to Mass and attend prayers mostly because of my family, but deep inside I never really cared. It was always a 50-50 feeling for me. Part of me believed that God was there, but another part of me kept questioning everything. Slowly, I even started losing hope. As time went on, many difficult things happened in my life. I had intense mood swings and felt mentally and emotionally tired all the time. There were days when I felt completely lost and wondered if my life had any purpose. I lost friends, had to face rumors, and went through many struggles that made me feel empty. No matter what I did, I was never truly happy. One day, my dad told me about this Teens Mission Exposure. I don’t know how to explain it, but I felt something inside me telling me to go. Looking back now, I can truly say that saying yes to this mission was the best decision I made this year. When I first came here, I honestly struggled a lot. Everything was completely outside my comfort zone. I felt overstimulated, disturbed, tired, and irritated. The continuous activities, prayers, Mass, sessions, and being around so many people felt overwhelming. At that time, I honestly found the prayers, Mass, and spiritual activities difficult to enjoy because my heart wasn’t really open to God yet. I kept asking myself why we had to do all these things. But after a few days, I slowly realized that maybe this was exactly what God wanted. He was taking me out of my comfort zone so that I could learn to trust Him and become closer to Him. Then came the Adoration. I still cannot fully explain what happened to me that day. As I knelt before Jesus, I suddenly broke down. I cried and cried, and I poured out everything that I had been carrying in my heart. I apologized to Jesus for every time I ignored Him, doubted Him, and lived as if He did not matter. I told Him how sorry I was for not believing in Him wholeheartedly and for pushing Him away so many times. While I was crying, I felt a peace that I had never experienced before. It felt like Jesus was telling me that He had never left me, even when I had walked away from Him. From that day onwards, something completely changed inside me. For the first time, I truly felt in my heart that I am a child of God. It was no longer just something I heard in church—I actually believed it. I experienced a happiness and peace that I had never felt before. Even the things I once found boring became meaningful because I was doing them with Jesus. Before this mission, praying before sleeping was never my habit. But now, every night before I sleep, I spend time talking to Jesus because I know He is listening to me. This mission did not just change a few days of my life—it changed my heart. Today, I can confidently say that Jesus has given me hope again. I know I still have a long journey ahead, but now I also know that I will never have to walk that journey alone because Jesus is always with me. Praise the Lord!

Anita Vimal, Qatar

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