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AWAKE Ireland 2026 – SMYM Ireland Annual Conference
05-11-2026

A weekend filled with faith, friendship, fellowship and unforgettable memories! From 24th to 26th October, 417 Syro-Malabar young people aged 16–30, representing all four regions of Ireland, came together at Dublin City University, St Patrick’s Campus, for AWAKE Ireland 2026, the annual conference of the Syro-Malabar Youth Movement Ireland (SMYM).

Organised by SMYM Ireland under the auspices of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, this year’s conference provided a wonderful opportunity for young people to reconnect with their faith, embrace the richness of our East-Syriac heritage and discover their calling as young Christians and future leaders within the Church and society.

The gathering was graced by the presence of Bishop Stephen Chirappanath, Apostolic Visitator for Syro-Malabar faithful in Europe; Bishop Joy Alapatt, Eparch of the St Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Chicago; and Bishop Donal Roche, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Dublin, who officially inaugurated the conference.

The programme was directed by Fr Binoj Mulavarickal, Director of the Youth Apostolate for SMYM Europe, with spiritual guidance and support from Fr Joseph Oliyakattil, National Coordinator of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Ireland; Fr Baiju Kannampilly, National Director of SMYM Ireland; and Fr Ceban Sebastian, National Director for Catechism.

Faith Formation and Leadership Development
Through engaging talks, interactive workshops and meaningful discussions, participants were encouraged to strengthen their personal relationship with Christ, explore the traditions of the Eastern Syriac Church and reflect on their responsibilities as young members of the Syro-Malabar community.

Celebrating Our Faith Through Prayer and Liturgy
Prayer remained at the heart of AWAKE 2026. The celebration of the Syro-Malabar Holy Qurbana, Eucharistic Adoration, praise and worship sessions provided opportunities for spiritual renewal and a deeper encounter with God.

Inspiring Voices and Guest Speakers
One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity to learn from three inspiring speakers who brought a wealth of experience, knowledge and passion for faith and youth ministry:

  • Dr Mark Nimo – Originally from Ghana, West Africa, Dr Nimo currently serves as Director of Faith Formation in Chicago. Through his involvement in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, he has shared his ministry and witness in more than 49 countries worldwide.
  • Fr Melvin Paul Mangalath – A dedicated priest in youth apostolate and an engaging presenter, Fr Melvin brought valuable insights and experience in accompanying and forming young people as faith-filled leaders.
  • Fr Conor McGrath – Having become the youngest parish priest in Ireland at the age of 32, Fr Conor currently serves as a parish priest and vocations director. He is actively involved in digital evangelisation, youth ministry and community outreach, inspiring young people to live out their faith in today’s world.

A Home Away from Home – The Host Family Initiative
Beyond the conference sessions, one of the most heartwarming aspects of AWAKE 2026 was the host-family initiative. Families from the Dublin Syro-Malabar community once again opened their homes and welcomed young participants from across Ireland. Their generosity created an atmosphere of warmth, hospitality and belonging, reminding us that our Church is truly one family.

Celebrating the Gifts of Our Youth
The stage came alive with incredible performances from the AWAKE 26 Music Ministry, alongside energetic and creative choreographic performances representing all four regions. These showcases celebrated the diverse talents, creativity and enthusiasm of our young people, making the weekend even more memorable.

A Collective Effort, United in Service
An event of this scale would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of so many people. We extend our sincere appreciation to the National SMYM team, youth animators and National Pastoral Council leaders for their tireless efforts in planning, coordinating and delivering the conference. Above all, we are grateful for the prayers and support of everyone who worked behind the scenes to make AWAKE 2026 a success.

Carrying the Spirit of AWAKE Forward


As we look back on three memorable days, we are filled with gratitude for the friendships formed, the faith strengthened, the talents shared and the spiritual experiences that brought us closer together.

Our heartfelt thanks go to our bishops, priests, guest speakers, participants, host families, volunteers, animators, organisers and everyone who contributed in any way to AWAKE Ireland 2026.

As AWAKE Ireland 2026 came to a close, its motto remained at the heart of everything we take forward. May we rediscover Christ in our everyday lives, reunite with Him whenever we feel distant, and remain rooted in Him through faith, prayer and service. May every young person carry the spirit of AWAKE beyond this conference, becoming a witness to Christ and an inspiration to others.

Rediscover Christ. Reunite with Christ. Remain in Christ.

With gratitude and blessings,
SMYM Ireland National Team

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