Media Release
Shivamogga, Dec 8: The Youth Commission of the diocese of Shimoga, ‘Yuvamitra',’ hosted Youth Christmas and the Yuvakeerthi Awards for the diocese's youth at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Hall on December 7. The programme commenced with an icebreaker session facilitated by Sannidhi, ICYM president of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga, and their team.
The official inauguration commenced. The esteemed individuals present on the dais included Msgr Stany D'Souza, Apostolic Administrator's Delegate and rector of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga; Fr Simon Pinto, coordinator of Diocesan Pastoral Commissions; Fr Franklin D'Souza, diocesan youth director; and Suhas Martin, diocesan youth president. Lenny D'Sa, diocesan secretary of ICYM, served as the Emcee. Beena Farias, ICYM diocesan liturgy in-charge, led the prayer, and Fr Franklin D'Souza invoked divine blessings upon the day's programme.
The welcome speech was delivered by Sannidhi. Then, the dignitaries inaugurated the Christmas Yuvataare programme by lighting the lamp. Stephen Lobo, ICYM diocesan joint secretary of Youth, then presented the report for 2025. Suhas Martin, in his address, congratulated the youth of the diocese for participating in good numbers. He told them that when we meet each other, we learn from one another. "Let this program unite us to help the youth of the diocese."
Msgr Stany D'Souza, in his speech, said that Christmas is a season of exchanging gifts. "God gave us the greatest gift as our Savior Lord, Jesus Christ. Let us cherish this gift and build our lives on the Gospel values by loving one another." Fr. Simon Pinto admonished young people to take up the challenges of life positively. He said that the Youth Commission gives ample opportunities for our youth to serve, to lead, and to shine. Youth director Fr Franklin D’Souza said that youth should be courageous in their faith and in the challenges that they face. "Our hope is in the Lord Jesus Christ. He never leaves us. Loving Jesus and his word brings abundant blessings to us." He also proposed vote of thanks.
Subsequently, competitions were held for carol singing, Christmas song-based dance, and star creation. The judging panel for these competitions consisted of Fr Simon Pinto, Fr Eugene Lobo SJ, and Sr Anupriya.
Following the Christmas Youth programme 2025, the results were announced. In the carols singing competition, Cathedral secured the first prize, with Sharavathi Nagar parish receiving the second prize. For the Christmas Dance competition, Cathedral was awarded the first prize, and Hosanagara parish earned the second prize. Finally, in the Christmas Star Making competition, Cathedral again achieved the first prize, and Sharavathi Nagar Parish was awarded the second prize.
The Diocesan Youth Commission honored outstanding youth leaders with the Yuvakeerthi Awards for their inspiring leadership at the parish and diocesan levels. The awards were presented by Msgr Stany D'Souza, Apostolic administrator's delegate, Fr Simon Pinto, Fr Franklin D'Souza, and Suhas Martin.
The recipients of the Yuvakeerthi awards were:
1. Nikhil Marian, Sacred Heart Cathedral
2. Rakshitha G, Sacred Heart Cathedral
3. Aaron D’Souza, Our Lady of Perpetual Succor Church, Malur
4. Priya Maria Dsouza, Our Lady of Perpetual Succor Church, Malur
5. Ashwin Lobo, St. Anthony's Church, Karehalli
6. Alwin Chiranjeevi, Good Shepherd Church, Gopala
7. Sheethal Britto, Good Shepherd Church, Gopala
8. Preetham Fernandes, Christ the King Church, Jog Falls
9. Precita Fernandes, Christ the King Church, Jog Falls
10. Sachin Issac, Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Health, Harihar
11. Jennifer A, Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Health, Harihar
Fr Franklin D'Souza administered the oath to the newly elected ICYM and YCS/YSM office bearers, who took their vows to serve for 2026. With this, they embarked on their new journey with the Yuvamitra Youth Commission, Shimoga.
The diocesan youth director announced the Youth Movement of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga, as the best and most vibrant youth unit of the diocese. They were awarded the Yuvasaurabha 2025 based on their year-round activities, service to society, and representation in diocesan, regional, and national youth events.
Fr Simon Pinto presided over the Holy Eucharist for the youth. During his homily, he addressed the theme of the second Sunday if Advent, which was joy. He emphasized the significance of the Kingdom of God as a realm where genuine peace and joy are experienced, devoid of animosity. He encouraged the integration of Lord Jesus' teachings into daily life. Fr Franklin D’Souza, the youth director, extended his gratitude to father Simon Pinto and all contributors to the program's success.