Mangaluru: Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) city deanery comprising of 12 parishes of the diocese began its silver jubilee celebrations with a grand procession from Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte to Cordel Church Grounds.

Fr Wilfred Rodrigues, rector of Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte inaugurated the procession and urged the youth to be united for the betterment of society.

The formal function was held at Cordel Church grounds. The event was inaugurated by Fr Victor Machado, Vicar Forane, city deanery in a unique way by releasing the silver jubilee logo and baloons into the air. Fr Ronald D'Souza, director, ICYM Mangaluru Diocese was the chief guest. Joe Periera, former president, ICYM Mangaluru diocese; Elroy Saldanha, president, ICYM Mangaluru diocese were the guests of honour. ICYM city deanery director Fr Anil DMello, asst director Fr Santhosh DSouza, representative of city deanery Josna D'Souza, jubliee committee hon president Ashwin, hon secretary Joseph Sequiera were present.

In his presidential speech, Fr Victor Machado said, "We are living in a new world called the digital world. Youth need to think out of the box and carry out activities outside the church compound, mingle with others and thus work toward a harmonious society. Having a broad mind and involving in the development of society with a humane heart is the need of the hour. Let this be the main agenda of the youth organisation for the next 25 years." He encouraged the young leaders of the community to follow the path of the greatest leader Christ, walk in his path and become messengers of peace.

Fr Ronald DSouza was felicitated by the youth of the city deanery for his tireless service toward the youth movement in the diocese. In his speech, he appreciated the service of the past leaders who have have given their best to make this deanery one of the best in the diocese. Many youth leaders have emerged from this deanery and have immensely served at diocesan level. Also, these leaders are at the helm of many organisations thus carrying the experience they gained here to implement there to serve the nation.

Joe Periera congratulated the present youth for bringing together former members of the organisation and meaningfully celebrating this jubilee together. The quantum of youth work which was vibrant years back has still remained the same but within the church premises. He urged the youth to opt public domain and be part of the system so that they could do better for the society as well as to the community.

A souvenir 'Sanchalan' to mark the jubilee was released by Fr Victor Machado in the presence of the guest.

Past directors, presidents and secretaries were honored during the occasion. Prizes of various sports and cultural activities held during the year were awarded to the winners. Various cultural shows were presented by the members of different parish youths.

ICYM city deanery president Raison Ferrao welcomed everyone. Secretary Veena Vas presented the silver jubliee report and proposed the vote of thanks. Valentine Cordel, Stacy Angelore, Benjohn Kelarai, Preema Vamanjoor compered the programme.