Priest Urges Youth to Turn Christmas Spirit Into Service at Udupi Deanery Meet

Udupi, December 16, 2025 — Calling on young people to move beyond celebration and translate the message of Christmas into concrete action, Fr. Vishal Lobo of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Perampalli, on Saturday said youth have a critical role in serving the poor and the vulnerable within their communities.

Speaking at the Udupi Deanery youth gathering held at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Fr. Lobo said the true meaning of Christmas lies in self-giving and compassion, urging the youth to express their faith through service and social responsibility. He stressed that festive observances should inspire sustained commitment to helping those in need.

The meeting, which also included the election of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement Deanery Council for 2026, brought together parish and deanery-level youth leaders. Godwin Mascarenhas, Youth Formation Coordinator of the Karnataka Regional Youth Council, addressed the gathering, emphasising unity, active participation and long-term engagement of young people in community and Church life.

The election process was conducted under the supervision of Fr. Rajesh Pasanna, Director of Indian Catholic Youth Movement, Udupi Deanery, with 26 eligible voters casting their ballots. Clarilda D’Souza was elected president of the Deanery Council for 2026, marking the formal conclusion of the 2025 council led by Rouvin Pereira, whose year-long service was acknowledged.

The programme also included carol singing and a visual presentation showcasing youth initiatives undertaken by the deanery in 2025, highlighting continuity in leadership and purpose as the new council assumes charge.

By Anson