The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Mangalore Diocese successfully organized a three-day residential village experiential camp titled “Back 2 Roots” at St. Paul Church, Delanthabettu, from 12th to 14th September 2026.
The camp commenced on 12th September with the registration of 55 participants. Christon Menezes, President of ICYM Mangalore Diocese, extended a warm and cheerful welcome to all the participants.
Rev. Fr. Praveen D’Souza, Director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese, briefed the gathering on the purpose of the camp. He inspired the youth by saying that the flame of leadership within each one must be ignited to multiply and spread light to others, beautifully reflecting the theme ‘Back to Roots’. In his message, he wished all the participants a fruitful camp and gave them three guiding principles – Discipline, Dedication and Divinity. He stressed that a true leader shines when he lives these three values.
Rev. Fr. Richard D’Souza, Director of St. John Paul II Deanery and Director of ICYM Delanthabettu Unit, encouraged the participants to stay active, energetic and to make the most of the learning opportunities offered during the three days.
To build rapport among the participants, fun-filled ice-breaking and group activities were conducted, which created a joyful and enthusiastic atmosphere. The day concluded on a spiritual note with a candlelight rosary procession to the Grotto of Mother Mary, where all prayed together with devotion.
The second day began with a grand inaugural ceremony in the presence of all parishioners. The programme was compered by Prem Jeethan Pinto, Social Cause Secretary of ICYM Mangalore Diocese. Rev. Fr. Richard D’Souza introduced the youth to the Delanthabettu parish and gave a brief history about the parish. The inauguration was held in a traditional manner. Diocese President Christon Menezes welcomed the gathering. This was followed by morning prayer and the celebration of Sunday Holy Mass concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Richard D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Praveen D’Souza and Rev. Fr. Paul Seravo.
After the Mass, Rev. Fr. Paul Seravo, the Founder of Delanthabettu Church, was felicitated for his selfless service and immense sacrifice in building the parish community.
After breakfast, an informative and eye-opening session was conducted by renowned environmentalist Xavier Kiran Pinto, popularly known as Snake Kiran Mangalore. He spoke about environmental conservation, wildlife and especially about snakes – their types, importance and safety precautions. The interactive session kept all the groups actively engaged.
The following session on beekeeping was handled by Ashwin Sequeira, Borimar, which proved to be highly practical and beneficial for the youth.
Rev. Fr. Richard D’Souza gave information about seedlings and taught how to prepare seed balls with mud, which the youth then threw in the forest.
After a delicious lunch, the participants went for a forest visit and trekking experience to connect with nature. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, they had a moment of reflection as a rosary was led by Rev. Fr. Richard D’Souza on the hilltop.
Upon returning, the youth enjoyed a lively rain dance with DJ music, which added fun and energy to the evening. After dinner, the campfire was lit by Diocesan President Christon Menezes and participants shared their experiences and learnings from ICYM, followed by entertaining cultural activities.
The final day began on a serene note with meditation and Holy Mass celebrated amidst the lush greenery on the mountain, which was a truly soulful experience.
After breakfast, as part of experiential learning, the youth visited different houses in the village – not only Christian families but also families of other faiths. They interacted with them, understood their agricultural lifestyle, traditional methods of farming, and also visited small rivers and other agricultural sites in the village.
The valedictory programme was then held. The dignitaries present on the dais were Rev. Fr. Praveen D’Souza, Parish Council Vice President Bonavencher Francis Dsouza, Secretary Veena D’Souza, ICYM Delanthabettu President Prema D’Souza, Secretary Calvon D’Souza and Ayog Sanchalak Rajesh D’Souza. The programme was presided over by Christon Menezes, who welcomed the gathering. A few participants came forward to share their feedback. They described the camp as a wonderful and enriching experience, specially mentioning the forest trek and the mountain Mass as unforgettable spiritual moments. They also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Delanthabettu parish youth.
Rev. Fr. Praveen D’Souza appreciated all the participants for their discipline, active involvement and attentiveness throughout the camp. He also lauded the teamwork and hard work of the parishioners and Delanthabettu youth in making the camp a grand success. Tokens of gratitude were presented to all the guests, volunteers and the cooks for their dedicated service.
Renita Cardoza, Secretary of ICYM Mangalore Diocese Central Council, proposed the vote of thanks.
With this, the three-day residential camp came to a meaningful close as participants departed with cherished memories and a renewed leadership spirit.