Sep 3 : The Indian Catholic Youth Movement Fajir Unit in collaboration with the Parish Youth Commission, organized 'YOUTH SPARK - 2023' for all the youths of the Church with the theme 'All things are possible for one who believes' (Mark 9.23) at the Fajir Church Hall on 27th August 2023 from 9.30am to 5.00pm.
The day commenced with a prayer song, followed by the first session on the topic 'The Role of Youth in the Family,' delivered by Mrs. Irene Rebello, a respected counselor. This was followed by the stage program.
The distinguished guests present on the dais included Rev Fr. Anil Joel Dsouza- Director and Parish Priest of Fajir, Mr. Valerian Dsouza and Mr. Preetham Noronha- Vice President and Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, Mr. Flywan Dsouza-Coordinator of all the Commissions and Youth Commission, Sr. Preema Dsouza- Animator, and Sr. Janet Machado-Superior of the Convent. Additionally, Mrs. Irene Rebello and Mr. Chrysostom Fernandes- resource persons, Mr. Delwin Dsouza-Vice President of ICYM Mangalore Diocese and St Joseph Vaz Mangalore South Deanery Representative, Ms. Lavisha Dsouza-Lady Vice President ICYM Mangalore Diocese, Mr. Jaison Dsouza-Treasurer ICYM Mangalore Diocese, and Dr. Nishal Preemal Dsouza, General Secretary of ICYM Mangalore Diocese for 2022-23,Ms. Viyolla Lobo and Ms. Joyline Lobo the President and Secretary of ICYM Fajir were also present.
During the event, Rev Fr. Anil Joel Dsouza, Director and Parish Priest of Fajir, addressed the youth, inspiring them to achieve greater things by placing their faith in Christ. Mr. Ranil Dsouza for being elected as President of YCS Mangalore Diocese, Mr. Jaison Dsouza for being elected as Treasurer of ICYM Mangalore Diocese, and Dr Nishal Preemal Dsouza for servicing as General Secretary of ICYM Mangalore Diocese for the year 2022-23 and also representing Diocese at World Youth Day held at Lisbon, Portugal were honoured. Ms Nisha Dsouza compered the program.
The stage program was followed by a session on 'Government Jobs' by Chrysostom Fernandes, Professor and Principal of a Government College. The subsequent session addressed 'Drug Addiction' by Mrs. Lydia Lobo, Administrator of the Link De-addiction Centre in Bajal. She highlighted the detrimental effects of drug addiction and raised awareness among the youths.
Rev Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese, visited and shared his experiences of World Youth Day, also commending the youth for their service at the Diocesan level. Mr. Jaison Lawrence Crasta, who served as the President of ICYM Mangalore Diocese for the year 2021-22, also paid a visit during the event and encouraged and motivated the youths.
Dr Nishal Preemal Dsouza organized group activities, while other ICYM members entertained the youth with action songs, Baila singing, and a dance performance.
A special attraction of YOUTH SPARK - 2023 was the praise and worship, adoration, and a special prayer for youths, conducted by Rev Fr. Jose Poovathingal and Br. Melvin from Mother Home Ministry in Ujire.
180 young participants enthusiastically embraced every moment, contributing to the success of YOUTH SPARK 2023.