Diocesan News

Nov 20, 2023 : "The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow".

COASTAL CONNECT, a gathering of council members, was hosted by the ICYM Central Councils of both Mangalore & Udupi Dioceses on November 18th and 19th at Udupi. The day began in the evening at 5:00 PM, the council members of both the dioceses met each other and spent wonderful time at the Sea Walk in Malpe Beach.

The members later convened at Anugraha, Pastoral Centre Kakkunje, Udupi. Council members of Udupi greeted Mangalore Diocese Council members with a dance performance. Mr Mithesh D'Souza - President ICYM Manglaore officially welcomed the gathering. Rev Fr Steevan Fernandes , ICYM Udupi Diocesan Director, Rev Fr Ashwin Cardoza, ICYM Mangalore Diocesan Director, Rev Fr Charles Menezes, Dean of Udupi Deanery were present.

Rev. Fr. Charles Menezes, led the session. He provided an overview of the older generation and younger generation, their societal expectations and aspirations. He also remarked, "What's the point of following our ICYM mission if the expectations are too high?" In addition, he congratulated youth for their social work and asked them to engage in more social activities. We, the youth, need to be committed, exposed, recognised in order to fulfill the mission of ICYM.

The rosary devotion was held after the session. Shiny ICYM Udupi Diocesan Secretary led the prayer.

Rev. Fr. Ashwin Cardoza and Rev Fr. Steevan Fernandes, conducted an ice-breaking session for the youth.

The next day began with meditation at 06:15 AM followed by the Eucharist. Later, at 7.15 AM the members joined a Zumba session, where Mr. Gavin Rodrigues led the session, who is a nostalgic dance crew choreographer and Zumba instructor, as well as the founder of 'The Roshow Hut'.

Soon after breakfast Rev. Fr. Ashwin Cardoza led a group discussion on the significance and value of the celebration of Roce in the coastal belt of Karnataka, and the Role of Youth in Election. He also conducted fun-filled group activities

The programme came to an end by exchanging gifts with their secret friend. Participants shared their feedback and appreciated the team for organising a fun-filled youth meet up.

Ms. Wilma Lobo, ICYM Mangalore Diocesan Secretary, thanked everyone for organising Coastal Connect, for the hospitality enjoyed, and for active participation.

As a token of gratitude Rev. Fr. Ashwin Cardoza, along with the ICYM Diocesan President and Secretary, offered appreciation by presenting a gift to Fr. Steevan Fernandes and the council members of ICYM Udupi Diocese.

- Long Live ICYM