Central Indiana Youth for Christ (CIYFC) is actively working to build Christ-centered communities for young people in Central Indiana. The organization’s focus is on youth between the ages of 11 and 19, aiming to foster a movement of young people committed to faith, emphasizing the shift from a model of adult-led ministry to one where youth play a vital role in growing faith within the community.

The organization partners with local churches, businesses, and school communities to reach more young people. Last year, CIYFC served over 1,000 students across the region. This outreach varies by program. Through the Campus Life program, YFC staff connect with students directly in schools, offering activities and Bible study. For example, they host a morning club where students play games, participate in Bible study, and enjoy a donut before starting their school day.

Beyond Campus Life, CIYFC offers the City Life and Parent Life programs, which connect with students through school and community referrals.

A key component of CIYFC’s recent initiatives includes mental health counseling, made possible through a city grant aimed at crime prevention.

More information about Central Indiana Youth for Christ and its programs is available on ciyfc.org.

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The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is set to host a vibrant and family-friendly celebration of Diwali and the Hindu New Year on November 2nd, starting at 11:30 AM. This event promises to bring the community together in a spirit of devotion, reflection, and gratitude.

Diwali, one of the most significant and auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. As devotees gather at the temple, they will take a moment to reflect on their spiritual journeys, assessing their relationship with Bhagwan over the past year. The day culminates in a special ceremony known as Chopda Pujan, where hundreds of new account books—both in paper and electronic formats—are sanctified. This ritual involves the showering of flower petals and rice grains, accompanied by the melodic chanting of Vedic hymns and prayers.

The celebration continues into the early hours of the following day, marking the Hindu New Year. Devotees will arrive at the mandir for the first darshan of the sacred images, beautifully adorned for the occasion. The New Year is ushered in with the first arti, a devotional ritual that symbolizes the light of knowledge dispelling ignorance.

A highlight of the New Year celebrations is the Annakut, meaning “mountain of food.” This year, over 1,000 unique thals (vegetarian delicacies) will be offered in a grand display of gratitude for the past year and in hopes of blessings for the year ahead. The Annakut offering will include a diverse array of items—snacks, sweets, pickles, spicy dishes, salads, fruit drinks, and more—meticulously prepared by devotees in a spirit of devotion.

The BAPS event is designed to be inclusive and engaging for families, making it an ideal opportunity for community members of all ages to partake in these cherished traditions. Everyone is encouraged to join in the festivities and experience the rich cultural heritage of Diwali and the Hindu New Year.

For more information about the event, please visit www.baps.org

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Indy Serb Fest’s mission is to preserve, promote, and nurture the Orthodox Christian Faith and Serbian culture.

The festival is an opportunity to share heritage and have some family fun.

Saint Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church invites you to their Annual INDY SERB FEST, on September 14th, with authentic Serbian food, beer and wine, live music, dancing, and kids’ activities.

Admission to the festival is free

Entrees for purchase include; roasted Lamb, sarma (Serbian stuffed cabbage), cevaps (Serbian sausage), burek (Serbian meat pastry), and hot dogs.

Amazing desserts include; palacinke (Serbian crepe), krofne (Serbian doughnut), baklava, strudel, cookies, and so much more.

The festival takes place at St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church (7855 Marsh Rd., Indianapolis IN 46278).

he fun runs from Noon to 10 p.m.Saint Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church and its charitable efforts will be benefited from the energies of this festival. Hope to see you there!

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