Shillong (AsiaNews) - Benedict XVI has urged young Indian Catholics to be "witnesses of Christian love, hope, joy and peace in India and the world" during the 8th National Youth Conference which was held October 10 to 17 in Shillong (Meghalaya). The pope's words were relayed to participants by Mgr. Salvatore Pennacchio, apostolic nuncio to India, during the celebration of Mass concluding the conference. The event was organized by the Indian Bishops' Conference on "Living in the world, Liberate the world."

The Pope reminded the young people to renew their lives reading, thinking and living the Word of God, to bring change to all humanity. Archbishop Pennacchio added: " Give your undivided attention in prayer to God and discover the joy and beauty of divine call in each one of you ".

More than a thousand young people from across the country gathered together with about 3 thousand delegates from 152 dioceses taking part in the final event, along with bishops, priests, religious sisters and parents. The week involved a series of meetings and spiritual testimonies, divided into three main areas: eradicating poverty, renewing the environment and building a culture of peace.

Mukul Sangma, Chief Minister of the State of Meghalaya, in his greeting to participants said that young people can contribute substantially to the good of the nation, as catalysts of social development in the modern world. He also encouraged them to have moral fiber, to support the common good in society and the Church.

The National Conference of Indian youth is held every three years, and this was the first time that a state in the North East has hosted an event of its kind.