Media Release
Shivamogga, Aug 11: The Yuvamitra, Youth Commission of the diocese of Shimoga, Yuvamitra, organized Yuva Habba (Youth Jubilee) – National Youth Sunday at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga on August 10. As many as 250 youth and 25 animators from different parts of the diocese came together to celebrate this special day.
The programme began with a short introduction of the youth and the inaugural ceremony led by Msgr Fr Stany D’Souza, vicar general of the diocese of Shimoga. The theme of the day was “You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me” (Jn 15:27).
Special guests for the programme were Fr Simon Pinto (coordinator of diocesan Pastoral Commissions), Colin Calmiano (international speaker), Supriya Varghese (ICYM national general secretary), and Jesvita D’Souza (YCS/YSM regional president).
In the first session, Colin Calmiano shared his own life story and spoke about how God changed his life when he was young. He encouraged all youth to live with faith and follow God’s way.
The Holy Mass was celebrated by Dr Francis Serrao SJ, bishop of Shimoga diocese. Msgr Stany D’Souza, Fr Simon Pinto, Fr Pius D'Souza (SMSSS - Chaitanya executive director), Fr Jostro MSFS (assistant parish priest of Cathedral) Fr Franklin D'Souza and Deacon Johnson SJ concelebrated the Holy Eucharist.
After lunch, there were fun and interactive activities for the youth. Three young people from the diocese — Priya Maria D’Souza, Suhas Martin, and Stephen Lobo — shared their experience of attending the jubilee year celebration in Rome from July 28 to August 3.
Former YCS member Sr Sheetal BS, native of St Joseph's Church, Sagar and former ICYM president Santhosh, native of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Kargal shared their memories and how the movement helped them in life.
The event also included business brand promotion by various young entrepreneurs from the diocese.
The day ended with joy, friendship, and a promise to live as witnesses of Christ. This event was supported by Communio.
Diocesan Youth director Fr Franklin D'Souza proposed a general vote of thanks.