Mangalore Diocese News

By Arwin Fernandes

Nirkan - Bantwal, May 13 : The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) of Nirkan parish joyfully celebrated its Ruby Jubilee on Sunday, 11 May 2025, marking 40 years of service, fellowship, and faith.

The day’s celebrations commenced at 8:00 am with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Nirkan, celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Mangalore Diocese, along with several concelebrating priests: Rev. Fr Leo Lobo, Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto; Rev. Fr Michael Lobo; and Rev. Fr Lancy Fernandes.

The evening celebrations commenced at 5:30 PM, beginning with a formal program that included several distinguished guests. The event was inaugurated by Rev. Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese.

Leesha Lobo, Secretary of ICYM Nirkan unit presented a report highlighting the 40-years journey of ICYM Nirkan, along with the activities and achievements of the current Jubilee year.

Also gracing the occasion was Rev. Fr. Leo William Lobo, President of the program and Director of ICYM Nirkan Unit; Mr. Ivan D’Souza, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council; Mr. Walter Nandalike, Founder and Managing Director of Daijiworld Media;
The Guests of Honour were Rev Fr Robert D’Souza, Director of ICYM Bantwal Deanery.

Mr Alphonse Fernandes, Founder President of ICYM Nirkan; Rev Fr Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar of Mangalore Diocese & Ex - President of ICYM Nirkan; Sr Ida Prema D’Souza, Headmistress of St Anne’s English Medium School, Virajpete & Ex - Secretary of ICYM Nirkan; Mr Arun Lobo, Senior Director - Operations, Burjeel Holdings, Abu Dhabi Region & (Ex-Secretary of ICYM Mangalore Diocese 2006-07); Dr Joyline D’sa, Associate Professor, Computer Science & Engineering, Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management, Mangalore (Ex - President of ICYM Bantwal Deanery 2010-11); Mr Arrol Jackson Sequeira, President of ICYM Bantwal Deanery; Sr Celine Vas, Superior Holy Family Convent Nirkan; Mr Vincent Bennis, Vice President of PPC & Animator of ICYM Nirkan Unit; Mrs Shanthi Veigas, Secretary of PPC; Mr Austin Lobo, Co-ordinator of All Commissions, Nirkan Church.

The documentary thumbnail of the ICYM Nirkan Unit was officially inaugurated during the event by Rev Fr Robert D’Souza.

The Ruby Jubilee Souvenir titled ‘Yuva Keern’ was ceremoniously inaugurated during the celebration, marking 40 years of vibrant youth service, cherished memories, and the inspiring journey of ICYM Nirkan.

A significant highlight of the celebration was the recognition of all former Directors, Presidents and Secretaries of ICYM Nirkan who had served the movement over the past 40 years. Their dedication and leadership were fondly remembered and honored in the presence of a large gathering of parishioners and well-wishers.

Rolvish Fernandes, President of the ICYM Nirkan Unit, warmly welcomed the gathering with a flower bouquet, and Secretary Leesha Lobo expressed heartfelt gratitude by delivering the vote of thanks.

Arwin Rancy Fernandes, Media Representative, and Glean Shail Dsouza, a member of the ICYM Nirkan Unit, compered the stage program for the Ruby Jubilee celebration event.

The evening concluded on a high note with the hilarious Tulu drama ‘Yerla Guarantee Ath’, performed by the team of renowned dramatist Dr Devdas Kapikad, providing wholesome entertainment and laughter for all.

The Ruby Jubilee celebration was a memorable occasion, bringing together past and present members in a spirit of gratitude, joy, and unity.