News

March 15 : On February 23, 2025, ICYM Pezar Deanery hosted the much-awaited "Samskruti Sangam" at Our Lady of Pompei Church, Gurpur-Kaikamba, starting at 4:00 PM. The event aimed to celebrate the rich Konkani culture and bring together different ICYM units of the deanery in unity and joy. The dignitaries included :
• V. Rev. Fr. Rudolf Ravi D'Sa, Vicar Forane of Pezar Deanery
• Rev. Fr. Vivian Rodrigues, Director of ICYM Pezar Deanery
• Mr. Johnson Lobo, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, Gurpur Parish
• Ms. Frienta Tauro, Animator, ICYM Pezar Deanery
• Josvita D'Souza, President, ICYM Pezar Deanery
• Sony Neha D'Souza, Secretary, ICYM Pezar Deanery
• Theresa Mathias, Cultural Secretary, ICYM Pezar Deanery

A Grand Celebration of Culture

The event officially kicked off with a warm welcome speech by Josvita D'Souza. Chief Guest Mr. Steevan Pinto motivated the youth, calling them the "bright future of Pezar Deanery." As a token of gratitude, V. Rev. Fr. Rudolf Ravi D'Sa honored him with a small gift. The vote of thanks was given by Sony Neha D'Souza. A special highlight of the evening was Rev. Fr. Rudolf Ravi D'Sa’s soulful song, which set the tone for the cultural competitions that followed.

Exciting Cultural Performances

With the competition rules read out, each unit took the stage with their unique and vibrant cultural presentations:
• Bajpe Unit showcased the traditional "Roce" ceremony in its old form.
• Kaikamba Unit presented an array of traditional dance forms and customs, including the cradling ceremony and "Ovyo" songs.
• Permude Unit brought a beautiful portrayal of cultural rituals like olden-day weddings, "Roce," and First Holy Communion.
• Ferar Unit performed a thought-provoking skit about the clash between modern culture and traditions.
• Adyapady Unit elegantly enacted a traditional Mangalorean "Roce" ceremony.

A total of five ICYM units competed, with Permude Unit winning the first prize and Bajpe Unit securing the runner-up position. The event was judged by Ms. William Lobo and Mr. Ashwin D’Costa.

Grand Closing Ceremony

The valedictory ceremony was graced by key figures from ICYM Mangalore Diocese, including:
• Rev. Fr. Ashwin, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Director
• Winston Sequeira, ICYM Mangalore Diocese President
• Ashlin D'Souza, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Secretary
• Riana Dcunna, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Vice President
• Reena Crasta, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Treasurer
• Wilson Pinto, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Social Cause Representative
• Mr. Romans Lobo, Vice President, Parish Pastoral Council, Gurpur Parish

The event was a grand success, bringing joy, culture, and tradition to life. Sonali Noronha was the Master of Ceremony, and the event was well-coordinated under the leadership of Cultural Secretary Theresa Mathias and President Josvita D'Souza. Overall, "Samskruti Sangam" was a memorable celebration, showcasing the rich heritage of Pezar Deanery and strengthening the bond among the youth.