ICYM, YCS/YSM Pastoral Visit to St. Anthony’s Church, Ragigudda, Shivamogga 

Shivamogga, September 20, 2026: As part of its ongoing pastoral outreach and efforts to strengthen youth ministry at the parish level, the Yuvamitra Youth Commission of the Diocese of Shimoga conducted a pastoral visit to St. Anthony’s Church, Ragigudda, Shivamogga, on September 20, 2026.

The visit was led by Mr. Lenny D’Sa, ICYM President, and Mr. Sadhana, YCS Vice-President, with the objective of interacting with young people, understanding their experiences and challenges, encouraging leadership, and strengthening the collaboration between the diocesan youth commission and the parish-level YCS and ICYM units.

Holy Mass and Parish Interaction:

The programme commenced with participation in the 9:00 a.m. Holy Mass, celebrated by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Santhosh Pereira. Following the Eucharistic celebration, the diocesan youth representatives met with approximately 26 members of YCS and ICYM from St. Anthony’s Church.

During the interaction, the youth shared information about the various activities and initiatives being carried out in the parish. The diocesan representatives also introduced the members to the forthcoming programmes and activities planned by the Diocese, encouraging them to participate actively and make the best use of the opportunities available through diocesan youth ministry.

Leadership Formation for Youth:

A special leadership formation session was conducted as part of the programme. The session focused on the meaning and importance of responsible leadership in youth ministry. The youth were encouraged to understand that leadership is not merely about holding a position but about taking responsibility, serving others, working as a team, and becoming an active instrument in the life and mission of the Church.

The session highlighted the qualities of a good leader, the responsibilities associated with leadership, and the importance of commitment, communication, teamwork, initiative, and service. The young participants were encouraged to come forward, accept responsibilities, and contribute actively to the growth of their YCS and ICYM groups.

Sharing, Listening and Guidance:

The leadership session was followed by an interactive discussion with the youth. The participants openly shared their experiences, concerns, and challenges encountered in organizing and sustaining youth activities at the parish level.

The diocesan representatives listened to their concerns and offered appropriate guidance and practical suggestions. The discussion provided an opportunity to identify areas where the youth groups could be strengthened and encouraged greater collaboration, participation, and continuity in their activities.

A Joyful Conclusion:

The programme concluded at approximately 11:30 a.m. with an animation session, creating an atmosphere of joy, fellowship, and renewed enthusiasm among the young participants.

The Parish Priest and the parish community extended their warm cooperation and support throughout the programme. Before their departure, the diocesan representatives joined the youth and parish priest for a group photograph. Fr. Santhosh Pereira offered his blessing and sent the team off with his good wishes.

Strengthening Youth Ministry:

The pastoral visit proved to be a meaningful opportunity for the Yuvamitra Youth Commission to connect with young people at the grassroots level, listen to their realities, encourage leadership, and understand their pastoral needs. It also strengthened the bond between the diocesan youth commission and the parish-level YCS and ICYM communities.

Such pastoral visits serve as an important platform for accompaniment, formation, encouragement, and collaboration, helping young people recognize their role and responsibility in building a vibrant and active Church.