In February 2025, the Jesus Youth mission team had the privilege of serving in the Mathias Colomb Cree First Nation community of Pukatawagan, MB. Invited by Archbishop Murray Chatlain, formerly of Keewatin-Le Pas, we embarked on a 2-week mission that touched our hearts in ways we never imagined. This was the fourth mission to the community by Jesus Youth members, but the first for many in our group.
Our mission began even before we arrived. Our team, traveling from Chicago, was spiritually sent forth by Bishop Andrew Cozzens, who celebrated a special Mass for us en route. This moment of commissioning filled our hearts and set the tone for a mission grounded in prayer.
We were warmly welcomed by Fr. Dhana Amarlapudi, MSFS, the dedicated parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, originally from India. His hospitality and steady leadership became a cornerstone of our mission. With over 8 years of service in the community, Fr. Dhana’s deep impact is evident, reflected in the vibrant life of the parish and the strong, trust-filled relationships he continues to cultivate throughout the wider community. We were also blessed by the presence of Fr. Tom Niehaus, currently serving in the Diocese of Crookston, MN. His spiritual guidance brought depth and encouragement throughout the mission.
As a pontifically recognized Catholic missionary movement, Jesus Youth takes a youthful, vibrant approach to evangelization and service in the world. There were 10 of us, 4 from Canada and 6 from the United States, mostly young adults passionate about faith and service.
Our primary mission activities included:
- Faith formation for children, including preparation for the sacraments through songs, crafts, and interactive activities;
- Youth engagement at the local school through games, music, and conversations;
- Bible study with elders;
- Young adult gatherings with games, conversation, prayer and meals; and,
- Community engagement through house visits and participation in community events.
These gatherings were filled with joy, spiritual growth and meaningful connection across generations.
We were honored to be invited into the life of the community. From engaging with students, to visiting the elderly and sick, attending funerals and joining in cultural gatherings, we experienced the beauty and resilience of the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation.
Adventurous moments such as ice fishing, driving on winter roads over frozen lakes and witnessing the northern lights revealed the genuine love and generosity of community members. We were deeply honored to receive a traditional hand drum as a gift from Maryann Dumas, a lay presider who served the parish for over 40 years.
Some of the most powerful experiences were unplanned. One evening, our team was invited to a parishioner’s home for a dinner that included moose heart, a local delicacy. What began as a simple thanksgiving prayer unfolded into a spontaneous time of worship shared among our group. It became a sacred encounter with God’s presence, etched in our hearts as one of the most unforgettable moments of the mission.
Throughout our time in Pukatawagan, we were entrusted with many stories of personal and generational struggles, including experiences of sickness, trauma, addiction and grief. In these moments of vulnerability, we responded not with answers, but with prayer, presence, and listening hearts. One especially moving experience took place during Eucharistic adoration with the children. After one young person courageously shared a painful story, others began to open up, revealing hidden wounds. The room filled with tears and silent prayer. Our team, though few, offered quiet companionship and heartfelt intercession. Even in the heaviness, we witnessed God’s healing grace gently at work, reminding us that Christ is closest in moments of brokenness.
Our mission concluded with a beautiful Mass where 11 children received their First Communion and 9 young people were confirmed. Four young people had been baptized in the days prior. The celebration was especially meaningful as it marked Archbishop Murray’s final pastoral visit before beginning his new assignment as Archbishop of Winnipeg.
As we left Pukatawagan, we carried more than memories. We returned with grateful hearts, renewed faith and a powerful reminder that in serving others, we are often the ones most deeply transformed. Thank you for your prayers and ongoing support. Special thanks to CMIC for their generous contributions toward youth faith formation, which make mission trips like this possible. Please continue to keep the community of Pukatawagan and young missionaries in your prayers.