YCS Animators’ Training Equips Youth Leaders in Udupi Diocese

Udupi, March 12, 2026: A two-day residential training programme for animators of the Young Christian Students (YCS) movement brought together 38 participants from different parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Udupi at the Anugraha Pastoral Centre, with the aim of strengthening youth leadership and pastoral accompaniment within the Church.

The training began with a prayer session that included a Scripture reading and reflection led by Fr. Steven Fernandes. Participants were then introduced to Fr. Edwin D’Souza, the main resource person, who conducted several sessions focused on youth ministry and the mission of the YCS movement.

An interactive ice-breaking activity organised by coordinators of the Young Students Movment (YSM) helped participants introduce themselves and build rapport before the formal sessions began. Fr. Charles Menezes later delivered a presentation titled “What is the Way?”, explaining the spirituality and foundational principles of the YCS movement.

Fr. Edwin elaborated on the YCS methodology of “See, Judge, Act and Evaluate,” a pastoral approach that encourages young people to reflect on real-life situations in the light of faith. He also spoke about the significance of the YOUCAT and the changing realities faced by young people today, emphasising the responsibility of animators to accompany youth through their formative years. Participants engaged in group activities where they analysed contemporary issues and presented reflections using the YCS method.

The programme included the celebration of the Eucharist, which provided a reflective spiritual dimension to the gathering. Marking International Women’s Day, Fr. Edwin extended greetings to the participants and acknowledged the important role played by women in youth leadership and ministry.

Psychologist Dr. Ryan Mathias conducted an interactive session titled “Who Are the Youth Today?” using case studies to highlight the social and psychological challenges confronting the present generation. Participants applied the YCS approach to examine these situations, linking pastoral insights with practical realities.

A highlight of the training was a visit by Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo of Udupi, who unveiled the new logo of the diocesan Youth Commission, Sammitra. Addressing the animators, the bishop encouraged them to nurture leadership and faith formation among young people in their respective parishes.

Further sessions explored the importance of cell meetings and practical ways of implementing the YCS methodology in parish youth groups. The programme concluded with an experience-sharing segment where participants discussed challenges and offered suggestions for strengthening the movement at the grassroots level.

Organisers said the training provided animators with a deeper understanding of youth realities while renewing their commitment to guiding young people in faith, service and leadership within the life of the Church.

By Alani Danthy

President, YSM Udupi Diocese