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July 17 : On the occasion of Van Mahotsav, the ICYM Bajpe unit, in collaboration with Samanvaya Mangalore, Commission for Youth, and Commission for Ecology and Environment, organized 'Laudato Si', an inter-ward sapling planting competition. The inaugural program of this competition was held on July 14 at the Church Mini Hall.

The event was graced by the presence of ICYM Bajpe unit director Rev. Dr. Ronald Cutinha, ICYM Bajpe unit assistant director Rev. Fr. Vivian Nishanth Rodrigues, St. John Paul II Shrine Chaplain Rev. Fr. Anil Lobo, Parish Pastoral Council Vice President Mr. Stany D'Souza, Pastoral Commissions co-ordinator Mrs. Mabel Saldanha, Commission for Youth co-ordinator Mr. Ruben D'Souza, Commission for Ecology and Environment coordinator Mr. Maxim D'Almeida, ICYM Bajpe unit Animator Ms. Frenita Tauro, President Ms. Melria Saldanha, and Secretary Ms. Carol Lobo.

Ms. Melria Saldanha, the ICYM president, welcomed the gathering. The inaugural ceremony featured the planting of a sapling in a pot. The Parish Priest Rev. Dr. Ronald Cutinha also shared his insights on protecting our nature. Ms. Carol Lobo, the ICYM Secretary, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed her gratitude. Mr. Rohan Pinto, the ICYM vice president, briefed the audience on the competition rules, followed by the distribution of saplings to the ward Gurkars, with each ward receiving three saplings of rambutan. The ICYM liturgical secretary Ms. Princia Serrao compered the event. The parishioners actively participated in this inaugural program.

Following the event, ward members are expected to plant and carefully nurture the provided saplings throughout the year. These saplings will be evaluated in April 2025, and prizes will be awarded accordingly. The ultimate goal of this competition is to encourage the growth and nurturing of at least a few plants, contributing to a greener and brighter future.