Mangalore Diocese News

CT News

Belthangady, July 22 : The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Belthangady Deanery, in collaboration with the ICYM Venur Unit, successfully organized a vibrant two-day Stay Camp on July 12th and 13th, 2025 at Navachethan English Medium School, Venur. The camp was thoughtfully designed to deepen faith, foster fellowship, and equip youth leaders with the vision and tools needed for the year ahead.

Day 1: Inauguration and Interactive Sessions

The event commenced with a grand inaugural ceremony, graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries:
Fr. Walter D'Mello – Vicar Vara, Belthangady Deanery
Fr. Edwin Santhosh Monis – Parish Priest & Director, ICYM Venur Unit
Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza – Director, ICYM Mangalore Diocese & Karnataka Region
Fr. Larry Pinto – Director, ICYM Belthangady Deanery
Dr. Joyston D'Souza – Belthangady Deanery Representative
Vijoy Cardoza & Maria D'Silva – President & Secretary, ICYM Mangalore Diocese
Jaison Rodrigues & Melvita Vas – President & Secretary, ICYM Belthangady Deanery
Jeswin Lobo & Roydon Moras – President & Secretary, ICYM Venur Unit
Sr. Lilly Gomes – Superior, Navachethan Special School
Sr. Veera D'Souza – Headmistress, Navachethan English Medium School
Sr. Grecilda Cutinha – Animator, ICYM Venur Unit
Mr. Denis Sequeira – Vice President, Venur Parish Pastoral Council

Ms. Jeswin Lobo extended a heartfelt welcome to all guests, followed by floral greetings presented by Deanery President Mr. Jaison Rodrigues. The program was inaugurated symbolically, accompanied by speeches filled with encouragement and purpose.

Fr. Edwin Santhosh Monis expressed his joy and gratitude in his welcome address, while Fr. Walter D'Mello shared an inspiring presidential message, calling the youth to lead with vision and faith. Mementos were presented to all dignitaries as a token of appreciation, and the inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Jaison Rodrigues.

The day continued with a lively ice-breaking session, featuring an action song by deanery members. This was followed by a powerful speech by Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, who stirred the hearts of the youth with his insights on purposeful leadership and the role of youth in shaping the Church and society.

After his address, the session was handed over to Fr. Alwyn D'Souza, Director of the Family Life Service Centre, Diocese of Mangalore. He conducted an enriching session that included teaching a melodious song, a deep dive into the YOUCAT (Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church), and a fun yet thought-provoking group activity that brought the teachings to life. The session ended with a moment of prayer and reflection.

The evening continued with a delicious dinner enjoyed by all, followed by a high-energy DJ session by Mr. Winston Madtha. The night culminated in a spirited campfire, led by Ms. Rose Priya, Mr. Elvin D'Cunha, and Mr. Ajay Rodrigues, featuring laughter, interactive games, and memorable bonding moments under the stars.

Day 2: Strengthening the Spiritual and Strategic Core

The second day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 6:30 AM, grounding participants in prayer and grace. Following the Mass, the Deanery Council Meeting provided a platform for each ICYM unit to present their annual action plans based on the shared deanery theme. Constructive feedback and collaborative strategies were discussed to align efforts across the deanery for a more united youth mission.

The camp concluded with a fellowship breakfast and a heartfelt farewell. With over 65 enthusiastic participants, the Stay Camp proved to be a well-executed blend of spiritual formation, leadership training, and joyful community building.

The ICYM Venur Unit, along with the Belthangady Deanery Council, received widespread appreciation for their dedication and seamless organization. Their efforts beautifully reflected the core values of ICYM — Faith, Fellowship, and Service — ensuring the camp was not only productive but spiritually uplifting and deeply impactful.