YCS Udupi Conducts Orientation Programme for YCS Members

Udupi, June 19, 2025: The Young Catholic Students (YCS) unit of the Diocese of Udupi conducted an orientation programme for its youth members and their parents on June 15, 2025, at the Ave Maria Hall of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi.

The event aimed to introduce the YCS movement to the attendees, strengthen fellowship among them, and inspire them through engaging sessions filled with sharing, learning, and interaction.

The event commenced with a solemn prayer song, setting a spiritual tone for the day. Ms. Calista Dsouza, President of the YCS Udupi Unit, delivered the welcome address, extending a warm greeting to all attendees and expressing hopes for a fruitful session. Mr. Arul Dsilva, Vice President, served as the emcee, coordinating the programme efficiently.

To infuse energy into the gathering, YCS members led a vibrant action song, creating an atmosphere of joy and participation. 

Fr. Vijay Dsouza, Spiritual Advisor of YCS, then presented an informative talk, elaborating on the movement’s objectives and its role in nurturing youth engagement in faith and community life.

The spirit of togetherness continued with another round of action songs. This was followed by an experience-sharing session during which Ms. Jeshma Dsouza (DEXCO Cultural and Liturgy Incharge) and Mr. Aron Dsouza, former Udupi Deanery President, spoke about their enriching journeys with YCS. Their personal testimonies highlighted how the movement had transformed their lives. Two parents also spoke at the gathering, sharing the positive behavioural and emotional changes they had seen in their children through their involvement with YCS.

Fr. Leo Praveen Dsouza, Assistant Parish Priest, conducted a concise session, offering further insights into the YCS structure, its significance, and its role in shaping responsible and faith-driven youth.

Participants were then divided into groups for case study discussions, allowing them to apply the “See, Judge, Act” methodology to practical scenarios while encouraging teamwork and critical thinking.

Mr. Lemuel Dsouza, Secretary of YCS Udupi Unit, delivered the vote of thanks. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the clergy, animators, parents, and members for their active participation in the event.

The programme concluded with the YCS anthem, followed by the signature YCS claps and a group photograph, capturing the spirit of the memorable event.

By Mr. Lemuel Dsouza

Secretary, YCS Udupi