Verghese V Joseph –
Mysore: The 28th Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Karnataka Region Council convened at the Catholic Centre in Mysore on June 17, bringing together 55 participants from all dioceses of the Karnataka region. The event featured esteemed guests, engaging animation sessions, and discussions focused on youth leadership, community engagement, spiritual growth, and upcoming regional programs and initiatives.
The council commenced with animation sessions designed to energize participants for the discussions ahead. These sessions aimed to stimulate creativity and foster a sense of unity among the participants.
The event was inaugurated with blessings from Bishop Henry D’Souza, Chairman of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishops Council (KRCBC) Youth Commission, and featured several esteemed guests, including Rev. Fr. Lourd Raj, Director of ICYM Karnataka Region, Sr. Molly, Regional Youth Lady Animator of YCS YSM, Sr. Magdelene, Regional Youth Lady Animator of ICYM, Fr. Maria Xavier, Diocesan Youth Director of Mysore Diocese, Fr. George, Diocesan Youth Director Representative, Mr. Sanjay Orwin Dsouza, ICYM Regional Youth President & KRYC Coordinator, Ms. Vileena Gonsalves, Vice President of ICYM Karnataka Region, and Mr. Arokya Raj, President of ICYM Mysore Diocese.
A poignant moment during the council was the celebration of Bishop Henry D’Souza’s ordination anniversary. This allowed the community to reflect on milestones and express gratitude within the ICYM. The celebration served as a reminder of the significant contributions Bishop D’Souza has made to the organization and the impact he has had on the lives of young people.
Throughout the day, discussions emphasized the importance of youth leadership, community engagement, spiritual growth, and upcoming regional programs and initiatives. Participants explored how each diocese can contribute individually to create a larger impact in the region. Several suggestions were also provided to support the youth of the dioceses, addressing upcoming regional and national events and the challenges faced by different dioceses.
Ms. Supriya Varghese from Shimoga Diocese was felicitated for being elected as the National Secretary of ICYM India for the 2024-2027 term. This recognition highlighted her dedication and commitment to the organization and its mission. Additionally, there were report presentations from all dioceses present at the council, offering insights into their activities and progress. The KRYC E-Magazine “ARISE & SHINE,” which is the third edition with a theme of environmental sustainability, was also successfully launched. This magazine serves as a platform for sharing the achievements and initiatives of the ICYM and its dioceses.
The day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration, highlighting unity and purpose among the participants. The celebration reinforced the importance of community and the role that the ICYM plays in fostering a sense of unity among young people.
Overall, the 28th ICYM Council in Mysore was marked by constructive dialogue, strategic planning, and a renewed commitment to fostering future leaders and strengthening community bonds within the Catholic Church. The council aimed to bring together youth directors, leaders, and animators from all dioceses of the Karnataka region to discuss and plan for the future of the ICYM. The event demonstrated the organization’s commitment to empowering young people to become active participants in the Catholic Church and to contribute to the betterment of society.
The ICYM has a long history of empowering young people to become active participants in the Catholic Church and to contribute to the betterment of society. The organization has been instrumental in fostering a sense of unity among young people and in providing them with opportunities to develop their leadership skills and to engage in community service. The 28th ICYM Council in Mysore was a testament to the organization’s continued commitment to these goals and its dedication to empowering young people to make a positive impact in the world.