Mangalore Diocese News

Report by: Lenster Montero
Photos by: Vivek Moras

Bantwal, Oct 10 : A Successful Gathering of Youth with the aim of empowering the youth of Bantwal Deanery, a youth convention was organized on October 6, 2024. The event commenced at 9:30 AM at the Vailankanni Sabha Bhavan, Farla attracting a significant turnout of 161 students.

The program began with a prayer song led by the Modankap unit, seeking divine blessings for the day's activities. Several esteemed guests graced the occasion, including Fr. Mark D'Souza (Parish Priest of Our Lady of Vailankanni Church, Farla), Fr. Roshan D'Cunha (Director of YCS for Mangalore Diocese), Fr. Lancy D'Souza (Director of Bantwal Deanery), Mrs Reshma D'Souza (Animator of Bantwal Deanery), Mrs Sunitha Baptist (Animator of Farla Unit), Mr Naveen Menezes and Mrs Hilda Pereira (Vice President and Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council, Farla), Mrs Sunitha Rodrigues (Commission In charge of Farla), and Mr Jayden Lobo and Mr Lenstar Monteiro (President and Secretary of YCS Bantwal Deanery).

Ms Siya Lobo, the Yuvatare representative of Bantwal Deanery,served as the master of ceremonies. Mr Jayden Lobo, the President of YCS Bantwal Deanery, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. In his address, Fr. Mark D'Souza emphasized the significance of YCS in the lives of young Catholics. He highlighted the importance of the convention in fostering youth development and spiritual growth. Ms Swizel, the YOUCAT Representative of Bantwal Deanery, expressed her gratitude to all those who contributed to the event's success. She delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks to the organizers, guests, and participants.

The second session of the day was filled with energy as the YCS Central Council led the participants in action songs, engaging everyone and boosting their spirits. Fr. Roshan D'Cunha, the Director of YCS for Mangalore Diocese, delivered a motivational talk, addressing important topics such as youth motivation, personality development, service to the parish, and active participation in church activities. He also demonstrated a cell meeting, providing participants with insights into organizing and conducting effective group discussions. Following the morning session, a mass was celebrated at the Farla Church at 12:10 PM.

In the afternoon, Fr. Alwyn Richard D'Souza, the Director of the Family Life Service Centre in Mangalore Diocese, conducted a session focused on marriage and family life. He discussed the importance of building strong relationships and preparing for family life. The participants were divided into eight groups and engaged in various games and activities designed to foster teamwork, encouragement, and active participation.

As the event drew to a close, Fr. Lancy D'Souza, the Director of YCS Bantwal Deanery, expressed his appreciation for the support and encouragement received from everyone involved. The convention concluded at 4:00 PM with the singing of the YCS Anthem and the YCS clap, marking the end of a successful and meaningful day.