Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Feb 18: The ICYM and YCS Balkunje units celebrated their annual day in grand style on Sunday, February 16, at the church premises.
The formal stage programme was presided over by Fr Paul Sequeira, the parish priest. Stany Bela, a renowned journalist and writer, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Among the notable guests were Fr Lancy Saldanha, director of ICYM Mangalore North Deanery, Fr. Stevan Cutinha, Director of YCS Mangalore North Deanery, Mallika Y. Shetty, president of Kambala Samithi, and Ashley Saldanha, president of YCS Mangalore North Deanery.
In his speech, Stany Bela emphasised the importance of cultivating a questioning mindset in the current generation. He said, “The present generation is blindly chasing answers. Whether at home, school, or at the workplace, there is a thirst for quick and ready-made answers. No one is thinking about the questions themselves. This trend is leading the youth to lose the mentality of questioning, which could have serious consequences in society. We need youth who ask questions, challenge social injustices, and stand against autocracy and dictatorship. Organisations like ICYM and YCS should help prepare the youth for this.”
Fr Paul D’Souza, in his presidential address, highlighted the active and service-oriented nature of the youth in Balkunje. He said, “The parents play a major role in shaping these qualities. Both ICYM and YCS have the word 'Catholic' in their names, which means, alongside service, the youth should also embrace Catholic values, which should ultimately lead them closer to Christ.”
Prizes were awarded to the winners of various activities organised by ICYM and YCS for the parishioners. The youth wing also honoured Clarissa Maria Cardoza, president of ICYM, for her dedicated service to the unit and the parish, as she will be flying abroad for higher studies.
Among the distinguished guests present were Sr Felcy, superior of the Convent, Freeda Rodrigues, vice-president of the Parish Council, Nancy Cardoza, secretary of the Parish Council, Lavina Serrao, coordinator of all commissions, Sunitha Pinto, animator of YCS Balkunje, Winston Rodrigues, president of YCS, Reshal Elvenia Rodrigues, secretary of ICYM, Alvita Sequeira, secretary of YCS, Jasmitha Monteiro, Stallen Serrao, and others.
Following the formal programme, a cultural performance was held by the youth and parishioners. The highlight of the evening was a Tulu drama, 'Amma Aamundara', presented by Vijaya Kalavidaru Kinnigoli.
The event was a great success and showcased the vibrant energy and commitment of the youth in Balkunje.