Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 5: Five representatives from the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Mangalore diocese, actively participated in the Karnataka Regional DELTA 2026 formation programme held from February 28 to March 1, at St Anthony Community Hall, Bellary. The programme was organized by ICYM Karnataka Region and brought together youth leaders from various dioceses across the state for formation, leadership training, prayer, and fellowship.
The gathering commenced with registration and an energizing warm-up session, creating a spirit of enthusiasm and readiness among participants. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Dr Henry D’Souza, bishop of Bellary diocese and chairman of the KRCBC Youth Commission, in the presence of the regional team, diocesan directors, dignitaries, and lady animators. The formal inauguration set a disciplined and purposeful tone for the days ahead.
As part of the formation process, participants were grouped for interactive team-building exercises. These activities enhanced communication, cooperation, and leadership skills, fostering unity among diocesan representatives.
During the sharing session, Vijoy Ashwin Cardoza, president of ICYM Mangalore diocese, presented key initiatives undertaken by the diocese to empower young people. He highlighted impactful programmes such as Career Expo, Metanoia, Red Drop Mangalore, and podcast initiatives featuring successful ICYM members who shared their journeys and experiences.
A thought-provoking session on 'Youth and Leadership' was conducted by Fr Lourd Raj, former regional youth director. He encouraged the youth to grow as responsible, value-centered leaders committed to serving both the Church and society. The celebration of the Holy Eucharist added spiritual depth and strengthened the faith dimension of the formation.
Further sessions focused on practical leadership skills. A module on Group Dynamics emphasized teamwork and collaboration as essential pillars of effective leadership. Supriya Varghese engaged participants in an interactive session on balancing leadership responsibilities with professional and personal life, encouraging holistic growth.
Outdoor activities provided space for bonding and fellowship, building stronger connections among the youth leaders. A YOUCAT sharing session led by Fr Ashwin Cardoza (regional youth director) deepened participants’ understanding of Church teachings and faith formation.
Fr Ashwin also conducted a session on READY planning and effective report writing, outlining key elements to consider while drafting and submitting reports on time. Adding to this, Suzannha Ferrao, PRO of ICYM Mangalore diocese, shared practical insights on managing diocesan reports efficiently and maintaining systematic documentation.
The programme was enriched by moments of prayer, including the recitation of the Holy Rosary and Eucharistic Adoration, creating a reflective and spiritually nourishing environment. A vibrant cultural evening followed by the concluding prayer marked the successful culmination of the regional formation programme.
The delegates from ICYM Mangalore diocese returned with renewed enthusiasm, strengthened faith, and a clearer vision to continue serving the church and society with dedication and responsibility.