Media Release

Kasargod, Mar 23: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement Mangalore diocese organized a three-day residential camp titled ‘Ember 2026 – The Spark that Multiplies’ at St Lawrence Church, Maniyampare, from March 20 to 22.

The camp began on March 20 with registration, followed by the inaugural ceremony. The dignitaries present on the dais included Fr Stany Pereira, vicar vara of Kasargod deanery; Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Karnataka Regional Youth Commission secretary and ICYM Mangalore diocese director, Fr Vishal Monis, ICYM Kasargod deanery director; Fr Nelson D'Almeida, parish priest of Maniyampare church and unit director; Wilson D’Souza, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council; Monica Machado, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; Sunil D’Souza, animator of ICYM Maniyampare unit; Dyaphni D’Souza, unit president; and Austin D’Souza, unit secretary.

The programme commenced with escorting the dignitaries to the stage, followed by a prayer by the Maniyampare unit. The welcome address was delivered by unit president Dyaphni D’Souza.

In the inaugural address, chief guest Fr Stany Pereira spoke about the essence of the event, emphasizing that the flame of leadership within every individual should ignite and sparkle. He beautifully connected his message to the theme ‘Ember – The Spark that Multiplies'.

Fr Nelson D'Almeida motivated the youth to make the best use of the three-day residential camp and encouraged them to fully utilize the leadership learning opportunities provided. Fr Vishal Monis also addressed the gathering, urging participants to remain energetic and actively involved throughout the camp.

A felicitation ceremony was conducted by the diocesan director, president, and secretary, honoring all dignitaries present on the dais. Special appreciation was extended to the Maniyampare unit, including the unit director, animator, Parish Council vice president and secretary, and ICYM Unit president and secretary, for providing the venue and necessary support.

Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza extended his best wishes to all participants, encouraging them to make the most of the camp. The message to participants was effective with three D's as a major takeaways, Discipline, Dedication and Divinity, further adding that these three D's are utmost important and makes a leader shine to their fullest.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Ronald Chethan, ICYM Kasargod deanery president. The inaugural ceremony then concluded. The inaugural ceremony was compered by ICYM Maniyampare unit member Maria Caroline.

Following dinner, the campfire was officially lit by Fr Vishal Monis, marking the formal beginning of Ember 2026. Various activities were conducted alongside the campfire, fostering interaction and enthusiasm among participants. Later, a candlelight rosary procession was held to the grotto of Mother Mary, where prayers were offered devoutly, bringing the first day to a spiritual close.

The second day began with morning prayer and physical exercises led by the participants. This was followed by a Way of the Cross to Yenmakaje Somaje Hill, which was systematically organized by Fr Royal Vijay Fernandes and Fr Kiran Nazareth of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The youth carried the cross at each station, progressing to the top of the hill while singing Lenten hymns and offering prayers with deep devotion.

Subsequently, animation sessions were conducted by the executive members of ICYM Mangalore diocese. A key session was led by Fr Kiran Nazareth, who addressed various topics related to leadership, including different leadership styles in society and the growth of leaders. He conducted engaging activities that encouraged critical thinking, discussions, and sharing of opinions. The understanding of relationship and friendship, major points were explained. The session greatly helped participants understand and analyze their personalities, enabling effective personality identification.

A panel discussion was held on the theme ‘Ember: Career and Faith,’ where panelists responded thoughtfully to various questions. All groups actively participated in the discussion, making it highly interactive and insightful.

Participants were then divided into groups, and outdoor activities such as a cricket match were conducted, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship.

In a unique and engaging activity, the participants were divided into three teams and tasked with preparing dinner. Each group systematically arranged the required items, prepared dishes, and successfully cooked the meal for the evening, showcasing coordination, creativity, and teamwork.

The evening featured a cultural programme presented by the three teams, including skits, dance performances, and other creative acts. A cultural performance was given by the members of ICYM Maniyampare unit. All groups participated actively, making the programme lively and entertaining. The day concluded with a rosary, in which all participants devoutly took part.

The final day of the camp began with eucharistic adoration, followed by the Way of the Cross and Holy Mass. A Youcat session was also conducted, during which participants discussed various questions related to faith and received meaningful clarifications.

The valedictory ceremony was then held, with ICYM Mangalore diocese president Vijoy Ashwin Cardoza welcoming the gathering. Representatives from each of the three teams shared their experiences of the camp. They described the programme as overall wonderful, highlighting the Way of the Cross as a deeply spiritual experience. Participants appreciated the hospitality of the Maniyampare youth, the effectiveness of the sessions, and the valuable learning experiences. The cooking activity was particularly appreciated as a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Fr Nelson Dalmeida appreciated the youth for their attentive participation and discipline throughout the camp. He also commended the excellent teamwork displayed by both the parishioners and the youth.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Maria D’Silva, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Central Council secretary. The valedictory ceremony was compered by Muriel Hansil Mascarenhas, Social Cause secretary of ICYM Mangalore diocese. Dignitaries present for the valedictory included Fr Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Fr Nelson Dalmeida, Wilson D’Souza, Monica Machado, Sunil D’Souza, and Austin D’Souza.

As part of a meaningful social initiative, the youth undertook service activities for the parish by cleaning the graveyard and rebuilding broken walls of the cemetery. This act reflected strong teamwork, coordination, and a spirit of service.

Later, participants attended ward meetings in four different wards of the Maniyampare parish, where they shared their experiences, prayers, and reflections with the community. Following this, the participants dispersed from the venue, marking the conclusion of the three-day residential camp.