National Youth Sunday Celebrated at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga

August 3,2026: The National Youth Sunday celebration began on August 2, 2026, with the Holy Eucharist at 9 a.m., celebrated by Fr. Franklin D’Souza, Diocesan Youth Director. The liturgy was meaningfully conducted by the ICYM youth members.

In his homily, Fr. Franklin D’Souza spoke on issues and challenges faced by today’s youth and how Lord Jesus Christ becomes an answer amidst life’s trials and tribulations. God’s gift, healing, deliverance, and anointing are free for all of us. He explained this in the light of the first reading, Isaiah 55:1-3. Then he spoke on the compassionate heart of the Trinity in the Gospel of the day, with the example of Paul’s conviction in the second reading, saying that nothing should separate us from the love of Lord Jesus Christ.

Following the Holy Eucharist, special blessing prayers were offered for the youth near the altar. Then a program for the youth was organized in the Church hall at 11 a.m.

The program commenced with a prayer service led by Rev. Msgr Fr Stany D’Souza, Apostolic Administrator’s Delegate and Parish Priest of the Cathedral Church. Rev. Fr Glanson D’Souza, Unit Director, warmly welcomed the guests and the youth participants.

The keynote interaction session was conducted by Rev. Fr Franklin D’Souza, Diocesan Youth Director. During his inspiring talk, he emphasized the importance of living a life rooted in humanity, making wise decisions and fostering unity among young people. He encouraged the youth to recognize their true identity and to build relationships in the style of Jesus. He highlighted that “By following Christ’s example, young people can become compassionate individuals, develop a forgiving heart, and grow in courage and responsibility.”

Following the session Dn. Santhosh Kumar conducted an engaging icebreaker session creating a joyful and interactive atmosphere among the participants. Rev. Fr Glanson D’Souza then led an interaction session, encouraging the youth to actively participate and share their thoughts.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks expressing gratitude to all the guests and participants for making the celebration meaningful and successful.

More than 30 youth participated in the National Youth Sunday celebration. The guests present were Rev. Fr Stany D’Souza, Rev. Fr Franklin D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Glanson D’Souza and Dn. Santhosh Kumar. The celebration was a spiritually enriching and inspiring experience that encouraged the youth to deepen their faith, strengthen unity and live as responsible followers of Christ.