Magis Bangla, the Bangladeshi chapter of an international Catholic youth movement sponsored by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), is marking its 12th anniversary in the country.

The Nov. 8-10 celebrations at Jesuit-run Novojyoti Niketan (Home of New Light) in Gazipur district near capital Dhaka include a gathering of more than 150 current and former members of the movement, meditation, formation sessions and cultural programs. “Go for the Greater” is the theme of the celebrations.

Over the years, Magis Bangla has aimed to transform and transmit Christian values and spirituality with cultural and intellectual foundations for Bangladeshi Catholic youth, said Father Pradeep Perez, the movement’s coordinator.

“Our aim is to embody and present Christian life and living in an alternative and extraordinary way, which breaks away from traditional classroom formation but is close to our daily living of life. Our formation is based on the teachings of Jesus with an emphasis on knowledge and culture,” Father Perez told ucanews.com.

Year-long Magis programs including youth camps, a carol and photography competition, musical drama on the life of Jesus, and celebrations of national and cultural festivals encompass the true spirit of Christian values, he said.

“Magis wants young people to have a better life, a life in fullness, for the greater glory of God,” Father Perez added.

Magis Bangla members say the movement has changed their lives for the better.

“I have made some great friends since I joined the movement more than four years ago. Magis has taught me essential values including equal respect for everyone including women,” photographer Amit Leonard, told.