Media Release

Bantwal, May 13: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) of Nirkan parish joyfully celebrated its ruby jubilee on Sunday, May 11, marking 40 years of service, fellowship, and faith.

The day’s celebrations commenced with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at St Thomas the Apostle Church, Nirkan, celebrated by Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop emeritus of the Mangalore diocese, along with several concelebrating priests: Fr Leo Lobo, parish priest; Fr Naveen Pinto; Fr Michael Lobo; and Fr Lancy Fernandes.

The evening celebrations commenced beginning with a formal programme that included several distinguished guests. The event was inaugurated by Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, director of ICYM Mangalore diocese.

Leesha Lobo, secretary of ICYM Nirkan unit presented a report highlighting the 40-years journey of ICYM Nirkan, along with the activities and achievements of the current Jubilee year.

Also gracing the occasion was Fr Leo William Lobo, president of the programme and director of ICYM Nirkan Unit; Ivan D’Souza, member of the Karnataka Legislative Council; Walter Nandalike, founder and managing director of Daijiworld Media

The guests of honor were Fr Robert D’Souza, director of ICYM Bantwal deanery.

Alphonse Fernandes, founder president of ICYM Nirkan; Fr Naveen Pinto, judicial vicar of Mangalore diocese & former president of ICYM Nirkan; Sr Ida Prema D’Souza, headmistress of St Anne’s English Medium School, Virajpete & former secretary of ICYM Nirkan; Arun Lobo, senior director - operations, Burjeel Holdings, Abu Dhabi region & (Former secretary of ICYM Mangalore diocese 2006-07); Dr Joyline D’Sa, associate professor, computer science & engineering, Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management, Mangaluru (Former president of ICYM Bantwal deanery 2010-11); Arrol Jackson Sequeira, president of ICYM Bantwal deanery; Sr Celine Vas, superior Holy Family Convent Nirkan; Vincent Bennis, vice president of PPC & animator of ICYM Nirkan Unit; Shanthi Veigas, secretary of PPC; Austin Lobo, coordinator of all commissions, Nirkan church.

The documentary thumbnail of the ICYM Nirkan Unit was officially inaugurated during the event by Fr Robert D’Souza.

The ruby jubilee souvenir titled ‘Yuva Keern’ was ceremoniously inaugurated during the celebration, marking 40 years of vibrant youth service, cherished memories, and the inspiring journey of ICYM Nirkan.

A significant highlight of the celebration was the recognition of all former directors, presidents and secretaries of ICYM Nirkan who had served the movement over the past 40 years. Their dedication and leadership were fondly remembered and honored in the presence of a large gathering of parishioners and well-wishers.

Rolvish Fernandes, president of the ICYM Nirkan unit, warmly welcomed the gathering with a flower bouquet, and secretary Leesha Lobo expressed heartfelt gratitude by delivering the vote of thanks.

Arwin Rancy Fernandes, media representative, and Glean Shail D'Souza, a member of the ICYM Nirkan unit, compered the stage programme for the Ruby Jubilee celebration event.

The evening concluded on a high note with the hilarious Tulu drama Yerla Guarantee Ath, performed by the team of renowned dramatist Dr Devdas Kapikad, providing wholesome entertainment and laughter for all.

The ruby jubilee celebration was a memorable occasion, bringing together past and present members in a spirit of gratitude, joy, and unity.