Fr. Franklin D’Souza Inspires Youth at ICYM Diocesan Youth Conference 2026

Bela, October 20, 2026: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Central Council, Diocese of Mangalore, in collaboration with ICYM Kasaragod Deanery and ICYM Bela Unit, organised the Diocesan Youth Conference 2026 from October 17 to 20 at Our Lady of Dolours Church Campus, Bela, under the theme “Gen Z Trendsetters with Christ’s Mission.”

On October 19th, 2:15pm to 3:15pm Rev. Fr. Franklin D’Souza, Diocesan Youth Director of the Diocese of Shimoga, delivered a motivational session on “ICYM and Its Importance in Today’s World.” Emphasising the Christ-centred identity of the movement, he said that ICYM is a faith-based movement in which Jesus Christ is our Saviour and Director, and His Word is our Constitution.

Drawing from his personal experiences, Fr. Franklin highlighted three types of people: “Come and Go,” “Let Me Do Something,” and “Why Not I?” He challenged the youth to move beyond passive participation and take initiative, responsibility and leadership in the Church and society.

He encouraged young people to face life’s challenges with courage and make the best use of the opportunities provided by the Church to develop their leadership skills and become effective witnesses of Christ in their families, communities and the digital world.

Concluding the session, Fr. Franklin prayed over the youth and imparted his blessings, encouraging them to become committed, Christ-centred leaders who actively participate in the mission of the Church.

ICYM Diocese of Mangalore thanked Fr. Franklin D’Souza for the inspiring talk and honoured him with a memento.