Moodbidri: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Moodbidri Deanery joyfully celebrated its Ruby Jubilee, marking 40 years of faith, unity and dedicated service, with a grand and meaningful programme held in Moodbidri on February 14. The historic occasion brought together clergy, dignitaries, youth members and well-wishers to commemorate four decades of impactful service to the Church and society.
The celebration commenced with a solemn Holy Eucharistic Celebration at 5:00 pm at Corpus Christi Church, Moodbidri. The Holy Mass was presided over by V. Rev. Fr Onil Dsouza, Director of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery, along with Rev. Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese and Karnataka Regional Secretary for Youth Commission, and Rev. Fr Jerald Dsouza. The Eucharistic celebration invoked God’s abundant blessings upon ICYM and all those who contributed to its remarkable journey over the past four decades.
The grand stage programme was held at 6:30 pm at Scouts and Guides Kannada Bhavana Hall, Moodbidri. The programme began with the ceremonial entry of the Presidents and Secretaries of the 11 ICYM units, proudly carrying their respective parish flags, accompanied by the ICYM executive members, former Presidents and Secretaries of the deanery and dignitaries, symbolising unity and collective strength. A graceful welcome dance performed by the ICYM Taccode Unit beautifully set the tone for the evening. The programme was compered by Anisha Cordero, PRO of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery, who conducted the event with grace and professionalism.
The Chief Guest and dignitaries were escorted to the dais by the ICYM President and Secretary. The dignitaries present included V. Rev. Fr Onil Dsouza, Director of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery; Ronald Silvan Dsouza, Executive Director and Founder of LEKSA Lighting Technologies Pvt. Ltd., who graced the occasion as Chief Guest; Rev. Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese; Gerald D’costa, Inaugural Vice President of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery; Vijoy Ashwin Cardoza, President of ICYM Mangalore Diocese; and Ajay Rodrigues, Red Drop Representative of ICYM Mangalore Diocese and ICYM Moodbidri Deanery Representative.
The formal inauguration was marked by the lighting of four candles symbolising the four decades of ICYM’s journey, representing faith, sacrifice, commitment and dedicated service. Prinson Pinto, President of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery, delivered the welcome address, warmly greeting the Chief Guest, clergy, dignitaries, sponsors and the gathering, and expressing gratitude for their constant support throughout the years. Joylin Cordero, Secretary of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery, presented the 40-year report, highlighting the significant milestones, achievements and contributions of the deanery over the years.
A special felicitation ceremony was held to honour individuals for their outstanding service and contributions. Those felicitated included V. Rev. Fr Onil Dsouza for his dedicated leadership and selfless service; Ronald Silvan Dsouza, Chief Guest of the programme; Rev. Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza for his service at the diocesan and regional levels; Rev. Fr Ronald Prakash Dsouza for composing the Ruby Jubilee theme song; Vijoy Ashwin Cardoza for serving as President of ICYM Mangalore Diocese from Moodbidri Deanery; and former Presidents and Secretaries of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery and ICYM Mangalore Diocese from Moodbidri Deanery, in recognition of their valuable leadership and contributions.
Prizes were distributed to the winners of various Christmas competitions including the Crib Competition, Star Competition, Little Santa Competition and Carol Singing Competition. Sponsors and contributors were also honoured with tokens of gratitude presented by V. Rev. Fr Onil Dsouza in appreciation of their generous support towards the Ruby Jubilee celebration.
The celebration continued with a vibrant cultural programme featuring performances by nine ICYM units and the ICYM Moodbidri Deanery executive members, showcasing the talents, unity and enthusiasm of the youth. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Avita Dsouza, Vice President of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the clergy, chief guest, dignitaries, sponsors, contributors and all those who worked behind the scenes to make the celebration a grand success.
The Ruby Jubilee celebration concluded on a joyful note with a DJ dance followed by a fellowship dinner, bringing together everyone in a spirit of unity, joy and thanksgiving. The event stood as a historic and memorable milestone in the journey of ICYM Moodbidri Deanery, inspiring the youth to continue their mission with renewed faith and commitment.