Media Release
Udupi, Mar 17: In a vibrant display of faith and fellowship, over 410 enthusiastic youths from across the Udupi diocese gathered at Stella Maris Church, Kalmady, for Christus Fiesta 2025. Youth Commission diocese of Udupi and Jesus Youth Udupi organized this spectacular Christian life celebration programme on March 16.
Fr Steven Fernandes, diocesan youth director, inaugurated the event with a blessing prayer, while Fr (Dr) Baptist Menezes, parish priest of Stella Maris Church, Kalmady, delivered the inaugural address.
Under the dynamic leadership of Brayan, the Jesus Youth Udupi coordinator, the entire programme was meticulously planned and beautifully executed by the Jesus Youth team. Their dedication and spirit brought alive the theme of celebrating Christian life with Jesus.
The event showcased a diverse range of spiritual activities, including praise and worship sessions by the Jesus Youth band, powerful personal testimonies, and an inspiring Pro-Life Ministry exhibition. A special highlight was the ‘Living Saints’ competition, where youths from various parishes depicted the lives of real saints, inspiring participants to follow in their footsteps.
The spiritual festivities also included the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, vicar general of the diocese of Udupi. A thought-provoking session on ‘Celebrating Christian Life with Jesus’ was conducted by Fr Canute Barboza, parish priest of Miyar. The day concluded with a soul-stirring adoration led by Fr Cyril Lobo, director of Divya Jyoti, Udupi diocese.
A poignant spiritual encounter presented by the youth and parishioners of Stella Maris Church, Kalmady, brought to life key scenarios from the Bible, leaving a lasting impact and encouraging all to deepen their faith and spiritual commitment.
ICYM Central Council and YCS Central Council also played a significant role, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth execution and success of Christus Fiesta 2025. Their teamwork and dedication were commendable.
In his concluding remarks, Fr Steven Fernandes expressed heartfelt gratitude to the entire Jesus Youth team for their commitment and leadership, particularly acknowledging Brayan for his guidance. He also thanked Fr (Dr) Baptist Menezes for graciously providing the venue and extending wholehearted support. Special appreciation was extended to animator Edwin for his valuable assistance, the youth of Kalmady for their enthusiastic involvement, and the parishioners of Kalmady for their generous contributions, especially in setting up the spiritual corner, for its outstanding efforts in organizing Christus Fiesta 2025 an event that has truly reignited the spirit of Christian fellowship and will remain etched in the hearts of the youth for years to come.