Udupi: The residential event “BLAST – Building Lives Around Sound Truth!” organised by ICYM Udupi Diocese Central Council to prepare an action-plan for the “Year of Youth 2019”, was declared by the Bishop of Udupi Diocese.
The event began on Friday, November 30, at 7 PM at St Joseph Church, Belman.
Inaugurating the event, the Vicar General of the Diocese Of Udupi Rev. Msgr. Baptist Menezes spoke about his life experiences and also mentioned ways in which the youth should think for a better future.
The first day ended with a Taize prayer session, group dynamics by Fr. Kiran Nazareth and a briefing by the Director of the Youth Commission Rev. Fr. Edwin D’Souza.
The arrival of the ICYM National President Percival Holt on the second day, was the highlight of the event. Day-two comprised of various sessions and group discussions.
Holt shared his thoughts and experiences with ICYM and YCS leaders of the Udupi Diocese and helped them draft an action-plan for the “Year of Youth 2019”, based on Synod outcome. He also took a session on key matters and recommendations from the Synod, pertaining to the youth of South India.
Rev. Fr Anil D’sa, national YCS coordinator, Sr. Lidwin Fernandes, ICYM National Lady Animator and Norbert Lobo were the resource persons for various sessions on the second day.
Later that evening, the delegates had a good trekking experience on a nearby hill. Rev. Fr. Reginald Pinto also addressed the youth at the site visit.
The final day was focused on preparing a roadmap for the “Year of Youth 2019”. A couple of meetings and presentations by the youth were also held. The Diocese Animator for ICYM, Lesley Aroza and YCS, Melwyn Castelino were present during the meeting.
Thereafter, the event concluded at the Bishop’s House, Udupi. The ‘BLAST’ programme coordinator and youth advisor, former president of ICYM Diocese Of Udupi, Derick Mascarenhas then presented the report to the Bishop. The Bishop addressed the Youth in his valedictory message and also viewed the architectural plan of the Pastoral Centre to be constructed.
Later, the delegates visited the construction site and also had a trip to the beach and the Stella Maris Church.
Around 55 delegates of the ICYM (Indian Catholic Youth Movement) and YCS (Young Catholic Students) from various units of the Udupi Diocese.
Dion D’Souza, President of ICYM Udupi Diocese welcomed the gathering.
