News & Events

The Youth Commission of the Diocese of Shimoga, Yuvamitra, organized a special event named "Be Rooted" from May 10th to 13th, 2024, at St. Aloysius College, Harihar. The fest aimed to encourage young people to shine, lead, and contribute to making society cleaner, healthier, and fairer.

Members and leaders from the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) and Young Christian Students/Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM), along with their parents, came together for the fest. Not only from our area, but friends from nearby places also joined, making it a big gathering of friends.

The fest began with a special Mass led by Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Shimoga. Then, we had different activities like aptitude test and sessions on important topics like addiction, pro-life, faith, be rooted in Jesus etc.

The program schedule features an aptitude test hosted by Dr. Shalini and Mr. Isaac Thomas, along with sessions covering topics such as addiction and choices, faith discussions, insights into worldly realities, reciprocal sessions, panel discussions, and a presentation on the significance of youth movements by Rev. Fr Lourdraj, the Regional Youth Director of Karnataka Region and session on importance of prayer by Rev. Fr Anil Prasad. Additionally, there will be an introduction to Youcat India, a youth gallery, a pro-life exhibition, and a prayer tower, offering opportunities for young people to connect both with others and with their faith. Organizing team also extended invitations to former National YCS/YSM Coordinator Mr. Abhishek Bhattacharjee, YCS/YSM National President Mr. Anson Nazareth.
After a prolonged journey of diligent effort, young people thrilled to announce the launch of our Diocesan Youth Magazine, 'Moggu,' meaning 'The Bud'. This momentous occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Most Rev Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

All got involved with a lot of energy and excitement. There were prayer sessions, Taize Prayer, exhibitions, and fun activities where we could connect with each other and with God.

One of the best parts was when Yuvamitra honored some outstanding young people with the "Yuvakeerthi" award. These are the ones who have worked hard to make a difference in their communities. Yuvamitra also recognized the presidents of ICYM and YCS/YSM from all the parishes.

After all the celebrations and programme, the fest ended with a colorful cultural event and concluding Holy Eucharist led by Most Rev. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar on 13th May 2024. It was a joyful way to wrap up our time together.
At the end, "Be Rooted" showed young people the power of coming together as young people, celebrating our faith, and being inspired to make our world a better place to live.
The mastermind behind this successful event is Fr Pius D'Souza, the director of the Diocesan Commission for Youth. The Diocese and Yuvamitra are indebted to him for his yeoman service to the integral formation of our youth.