Diocese of Shimoga Youth Unite for National Youth Sunday Celebration

Shimoga, August 11, 2025 – The Youth Commission of the Diocese of Shimoga, Yuvamitra, hosted Yuva Habba 2K25 (Youth Jubilee) – National Youth Sunday – on 10 August at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shimoga. The event brought together 250 youth and 25 animators from across the diocese for a vibrant day of faith, fellowship, and celebration.

Msgr. Stany D’Souza, Vicar General of the Diocese of Shimoga, inaugurated the gathering, which was held under the theme, “You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me” (Jn 15:27). Special guests included Rev. Fr. Simon Pinto, Coordinator of Diocesan Pastoral Commissions; Mr. Colin Calmiano, International Speaker; Ms. Supriya Varghese, ICYM National General Secretary; and Ms. Jesvita D’Souza, YCS/YSM Regional President.

Mr. Calmiano shared his personal journey of how God transformed his life at a young age and urged the youth to remain steadfast in faith and committed to God’s path.

Bishop Francis Serrao SJ of Shimoga, presided over the Holy Mass, concelebrated by Msgr. Stany D’Souza, Fr. Simon Pinto, Fr. Pius D’Souza (Executive Director, SMSSS – Chaitanya), Fr. Jostro MSFS (Assistant Parish Priest of the Cathedral), Fr. Franklin D’Souza, and Deacon Johnson SJ.

The celebration featured lively interactive activities and inspiring testimonies. Ms. Priya Maria D’Souza, Mr. Suhas Martin, and Mr. Stephen Lobo shared their experiences of attending the Jubilee Year celebration in Rome from 28 July to 3 August 2025. Former YCS member Rev. Sr. Sheetal BS, a native of St. Joseph’s Church, Sagar, and former ICYM president Mr. Santhosh, from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Kargal, spoke about how youth movements had shaped their lives.

The event also highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of young business owners from the diocese through brand promotions.

Filled with joy, strengthened friendships, and a renewed commitment to live as witnesses of Christ, the day concluded on a high note. Diocesan Youth Director Rev. Fr. Franklin D’Souza expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed, acknowledging the generous support of Communio in making the celebration possible.

By Jesvita D'Souza, Hosanagara 

Image credit: Raju, Shimoga

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