Media Release

Shivamogga, Jan 29: The youth of Holy Family and Little Flower deanery came together on January 26 at Harihar to celebrate their youthfulness and zeal with Jesus and one another. It was indeed a moment of joy and sharing to show their enthusiasm at the zonal youth convention. This was hosted by the ICYM unit Harihar under the guidance and support of the Rev Dr Antony Peter, the parish priest of Harihar parish and Rev Fr Pius D'Souza the youth director. Around seventy youth from the two deaneries were present for the convention.

The inauguration ceremony was a solemn moment. It commenced with a creative event where the parish presidents from each of the parishes of zonal level installed their respective names in inaugural pot placed at the centre. Dr Fr Antony Peter inaugurated the convention 'Rejoice 2k23' with a brief explanation of the meaningful ceremony. In his inaugural address Fr Antony Peter expressed his deep appreciation of the young people of the two deaneries. He commended their initiative, innovative ideas and talents while coming together with good materials and message to share. He expressed his appreciation as he encouraged the youth to create a just society with right determination and dedication. He told them, "Today’s you is the future of the society and our nation and for our parishes they are the backbone. Their support and help will lead to our progress."

This was followed by the animation of the group led by Supriya, the ICYM president and the team that enthused the youth. The introductory session was conducted by the youth director, Fr Pius D’Souza preparing the young minds to attune themselves to participate whole heartedly in the convention. He said that the young people have so much talents and originality which they are willing to share.

Sr Tresa Lidya YCS/YSM Lady Animator addressed the delegates on personality development and spirituality. In her talk she focused on the development that creates discipline in one’s life. She stressed on the need to making life systematic with proper formation of self. The formation of individuals through education and formation is necessary.

The group came together for the Eucharist. Fr Pius D’Souza was the main celebrant and offered the Mass for the intentions of all the youth gathered at Harihar. Rev Dr Antony Peter in his homily spoke about Jesus who loved young people and always attracted them to him. With his beautiful words he led the young minds towards Jesus who he said always remained young. Time was set aside forspecial Eucharistic Adoration and the youth participated with devotion. The youth were able to share their prayers and intentions praying for each other and the diocese of Shimoga.

The afternoon session was an enlightening time for the participants. Supriya the ICYM president and Joshua the YCS/YSM president briefed the participants about ICYM and YCS/YSM and the methodology with the motto: “See Judge and Act.”They also stated the importance of cell meeting and the need of their regular participation.

The Zonal level election was conducted. The following members were elected with specific portfolio:

ICYM ZEXCOs (Zonal Executive Committee)
1. President: – Wilfred
2. Vice –President: – Divya
3. Secretary: -Jino George
4. Boy Representative: - Naveen T
5. Girl Representative: - Shalen infant
6. Treasurer: - Jeevith
7. Liturgy secretary:- Srujan
8. Program co-ordinator: Sandesh
9. PRO: Daran
10. Media secretary: Akshay Anthony
11. Director: Fr Clarence Dias
12. Lady Animator: Sr Bala Mary SJT

YCS/YSM ZTS (Zonal Team of Students)
1. President: Mary Janita (Harihar)
2. Vice-president: Alwin Gibson (Davangere)
3. Secretary: Allen (Harihara)
4. Liturgy in-charge: Rohith (Challakere)
5. P.R.O Spokesperson: Darian (Davangere)
6. Girl-representative: Shiny Ray R (Davangere)
7. Boy-Representative: Infant Joel (Harihara)
8. Program coordinator: Sanoj (Challakere)
9. Media In-charge:Saimon (Harihara)
10. Treasurer: Roshni Ray R (Davangere)
11. Director: Fr Alvin Stanislaus
12. Lady Animator: Sr Marjorie CSST

Fr Pius D'Souza guided the ICYM and YCS units to plan the annual programme for the zonal level. During the valedictory ceremony the animator stressed the importance of the programme of the day. Most of the participants shared their experience of the session.

Fr George K A, the dean of Holy Family deanery was the president of the concluding ceremony. In his valedictory address he encouraged the youth to grow and explore for the present days of life. It is quite challenging for each one and everyone needs courage to face the reality of life. This message was quite enriching and supportive. The programme ended on an excellent note and the participants returned home with the joy of celebration youthfulness with Jesus and one another.