About us

Inspiring young people to encounter Christ and live in community

Who We Are

Jesus Youth is an international Catholic movement that challenges young people to live a meaningful, creative, and fulfilling life. Recognised by the Holy See, the movement inspires vibrant spirituality among young people while nurturing their faith through prayer, fellowship, and missionary initiatives. Established in the 1980s in Kerala, India, Jesus Youth has expanded to over 40 countries, fostering faith-filled communities guided by its six pillars: personal prayer, the Word of God, sacraments, fellowship, evangelisation, and an option for the poor.

Our Journey in New Zealand

Jesus Youth began its journey in New Zealand in the early 2000s when several members migrated to the country seeking better career prospects. In 2005, CC Joseph from the Jesus Youth International Council (JYIC) and Rajesh Thalapillil from Jesus Youth Australia visited New Zealand to connect with the growing community. This connection laid the groundwork for the first prayer gathering in Auckland, guided by Rev. Fr. James Mulligan D.D.

In 2006, visits from Manoj Sunny, the then-Coordinator of JYIC, and Mayrose Pius from Jesus Youth Australia inspired the community to hold regular prayer gatherings. By 2007, the first young adult programme, Destination Christa, was launched. The event prompted Fr James Mulligan and key leaders to present the movement to Bishop Patrick Dunn of Auckland. Following leadership training in Sydney, Jesus Youth expanded its presence to Hamilton and Christchurch, which marked the beginning of our regional growth.

2008
Formation of the First National Team
The first National Team was formed, with Soji Joseph as Coordinator and Rev. Fr. James Mulligan as Chaplain. That same year, the Rexband toured New Zealand, bringing vibrant concerts to Auckland, Christchurch, and Whangarei. Mission trips to Wellington, Dunedin, and other parts of New Zealand followed, furthering the movement's reach.
2010
New Service Teams and Exult
Service Teams were established in Auckland and Christchurch to support local initiatives. The first Exult retreat for young adults was launched. Over the years, Exult has grown into an annual retreat that features music, teachings, sacraments, and fellowship, providing an opportunity for young adults to rejuvenate their faith.
2013
Familia
The *Familia* retreat was introduced, providing spiritual enrichment and support for families within the Jesus Youth community.
2015
3:sixTEENS
3:sixTeens was launched in response to the growing need for dedicated support and faith formation for youth. It has since evolved into an annual event for secondary school students, providing opportunities for spiritual growth and community building.
2016
Formation Course introduced
The first Formation Course was held in New Zealand, led by Manoj Sunny and Tomas Michael of the International Formation Team, helping members deepen their commitment to Jesus Youth's mission.
2019
Reach
The first *Reach* programme was organised to support young students transitioning from school to university. This initiative was designed to provide ongoing faith support, enabling young adults to stay connected to their faith while navigating university life.
2024
Commitment Retreat
The formation process reached a new milestone with the first Commitment Retreat, where 34 members from New Zealand completed their formation journey at the Holiness Retreat. This landmark event signified the full completion of formation for these members, underscoring the spiritual growth of Jesus Youth in New Zealand.

Our Ongoing Mission

Today, Jesus Youth in New Zealand is present in most dioceses across the country, inspiring youth, young adults, families, and children through vibrant programs, retreats, formation courses, and mission opportunities. The current National Team continues to strengthen the movement's presence and impact. With a strong foundation of leadership, formation, and mission, the movement continues to grow and evolve, reflecting the dynamic spirit of its members and the broader Jesus Youth movement worldwide.