The ICYM Omzoor Unit successfully organized Yuva Ignite-2026 on 9th August, a vibrant youth empowerment programme aimed at inspiring, educating, and bringing together young people through meaningful sessions, interactive activities, fellowship, and celebration.
To mark the inspiring occasion of National Youth Day, a solemn and uplifting Holy Mass was celebrated, with the liturgy and choir thoughtfully organized by the ICYM members. Offered with special intentions for the youth, the Eucharistic celebration served as a prayerful appeal for divine guidance, spiritual strength, and rich blessings over their lives, ambitions, and future endeavors.
During the Mass, the priests offered a special prayer for the youth, praying for their spiritual growth, guidance, and wellbeing. Following the prayer, the youth were blessed with holy water, invoking God’s grace and protection upon them.
The formal stage ceremony was graced by an esteemed panel of dignitaries, including Parish Priest Rev. Fr. William Menezes, Resident Priest Rev. Fr. Rahul Dexter D’Souza, Parish Pastoral Council Vice President Mr. Arther D’Souza and Secretary Mrs. Daffny Lewis, and Coordinator of Ayogs Mr. Elroy Saldanha. Joining them on stage were Deanery President Ms. Riene Sonam, Yuva Ayog Secretary Ms. Jenisha Lewis, Deanery Red Drop Representative Mr. Leston D’Souza, ICYM Omzoor President Mr. Joswin Pinto, Secretary Ms. Lavita Pereira, as well as ICYM Animators Mr. Vineet Lasrado and Mrs. Glevita Lasrado.
The programme began with a formal stage ceremony hosted by Winora Nisha Pinto. The event commenced with a prayer song seeking God’s blessings, followed by a warm welcome by ICYM President Joswin Pinto and the official inauguration by all the dignitaries on the dias. Director Rev. Fr. William Menezes delivered an inspiring message encouraging the youth to become active and responsible leaders. Parish Pastoral Council Vice President Arther Dsouza further motivated the youth through his address. The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks by ICYM Secretary Lavita Maria Pereira.
The subsequent sessions were hosted energetically by Jenisha Lewis. The first session, conducted by Fr. Rahul Dexter Dsouza, focused on mental health, youth psychology, and emotional well-being, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced by young people today. This was followed by an informative session by Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes on digital media and Artificial Intelligence, highlighting their opportunities, impact, and challenges for today’s youth.
The programme was further enriched by a lively dance performance by ICYM members, followed by various action songs and interactive games that kept the participants engaged and energized.The event received special encouragement through the presence of Mangalore Diocese ICYM Central President Christon Menezes, along with members of the diocesan ICYM and the Bantwal Deanery Council, led by President Rinie Sonam. Their participation added great enthusiasm to the programme through an exciting quiz competition and lively action songs.
A significant highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the felicitation of the parish’s SSLC and PUC distinction holders, recognizing and celebrating their academic achievements and encouraging other young people to pursue excellence.The programme concluded on a joyful note with a vibrant traditional Baila dance, bringing the youth and participants together in celebration and fellowship.
Overall, Yuva Ignite 2026 was a successful and memorable initiative, combining faith, learning, leadership, entertainment, and fellowship. The enthusiastic participation of the youth and the collective efforts of the organizers, clergy, ICYM leadership, volunteers, sponsors, and well-wishers contributed greatly to the success of the programme. The event truly reflected the spirit of empowering youth, strengthening fellowship, and inspiring them to become leaders who can transform tomorrow.