Youth Celebrate Faith and Fellowship at YUVASAMAGAM 2025 in Udupi

Moodubelle, Udupi, August 1, 2025: Over 200 young Catholics from nine units across Udupi Deanery gathered on 27 July 2025 for YUVASAMAGAM 2025, the ICYM Udupi Deanery Youth Convention hosted at St. Lawrence Church Hall, Moodubelle. Organised by the ICYM Udupi Deanery in collaboration with the Moodubelle Unit, the convention offered a dynamic platform for faith formation, creative expression, and community engagement.

The ceremonial hoisting of the ICYM flag by Fr. George Thomas D’Souza, Parish Priest of Moodubelle, was followed by the inaugural session in the church hall. A prayer song by the First Gear Band set a reflective tone, followed by the introduction of dignitaries: Fr. George Thomas D’Souza; UPSC rank-holder Mr. Shreyans Gomes (372nd rank); CA Pritesh D’Souza, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mr. Rouvin Pereira, President of ICYM Udupi Deanery; Ms. Joyce Fernandes, Secretary of ICYM Udupi Diocese; and Mr. Aaron Barboza, President of ICYM Moodubelle. All were greeted with eco-friendly potted plants, symbolising respect and environmental stewardship.

Mr. Shreyans Gomes, an Udupi native, was felicitated for his civil service achievement. In his address, he urged youth to stay rooted in values such as discipline, perseverance, and respect for elders. Fr. George D’Souza highlighted the role of ICYM in nurturing leadership and service, referencing alumni such as MLC Ivan D’Souza and MCC Bank President Anil Lobo.

Ms. Ashlita Mendonca, Secretary of ICYM Moodubelle acknowledged all who contributed to the event’s success. Participants engaged in vibrant action songs and team-building spot games, followed by an insightful guest session by Adv. Rayan Fernandes, who spoke on “Law, Cybercrime, and Blood Donation”. The session raised awareness on legal rights, digital responsibility, and the life-saving act of blood donation.

A spiritually enriching Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Steevan Fernandes and Fr. Rikson Monteiro, offering a space for reflection on faith, leadership, and Christian values.

The event featured fellowship meals, creative competitions including Face Painting, Kopel Making, Mindmaze, Reels Making, and Phokana, and meaningful interactions among youth and leaders. Several ICYM Central Council members and Unit Directors also visited, lending encouragement and gravitas to the proceedings.

The valedictory ceremony, anchored by Ms. Rovina Dsa, welcomed dignitaries including Fr. Charles Menezes, Fr. Steevan Fernandes, and Mr. Steevan Colaco. Youth leaders Ms. Shainey Alva and Mr. Aaron Oliveira were recognised for their service in 2024, and Ms. Shainey was announced as the head of the upcoming 2025–26 Blood Donation Campaign.

A notable moment of the day was the unveiling of the official logo for UDPL (Udupi Deanery Premier League) Season 3, scheduled for 12 October 2025. Sponsors were honoured with mementoes, and unit presidents were appreciated for their commitment. Fr. Rajesh Passana announced the competition results: Perampally Unit emerged as overall champions, with Udyavar Unit named runners-up.

A high-energy music session by the First Gear Band and DJ Edwin followed, and ice cream was distributed to all participants—bringing joy and a sense of unity to close the day.

YUVASAMAGAM 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the Church’s commitment to forming young leaders grounded in faith, community, and social responsibility. Through prayer, talent, and fellowship, the event empowered youth to become agents of transformation within the Church and society.

Youth Celebrate Faith and Fellowship at YUVASAMAGAM 2025 in Udupi

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