Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (RD/CN)

Mangalore, May 13: ICYM unit of Holy Cross parish, Eliyarpadav, celebrated its decennial here, recently.

Mangalore diocesan ICYM director Fr Anil D’Souza presided over the Eucharistic celebration.

ICYM unit former director Fr Naveen Pinto, ICYM unit director Fr Reginald Pinto, founder unit president Arun Roche, and unit president Sunita Lobo, jointly inaugurated the decennial celebrations.

Fr Anil, in his homily, called on the youth to work for peace and harmony as per ‘International Year of the Youth’ theme.  He praised the members for their service to the church and to the community.

After the Eucharistic celebration, Fr Anil was honoured by the ICYM unit on his 20th anniversary of ordination on behalf of the entire youth of the diocese.

Fr Richard Saldanha, founder director, presided over the stage programme held in the evening at the parish ground.

Mangalore south deanery ICYM president Prinston Lobo was the chief guest on the occasion.

Eliyarpadav parish council vice-president Edward D’Souza, secretary Jhansi Monteiro, and youth animator Bernard D’Souza were the guests of honour.

Founder president Arun Roche and secretary Evelyn D’Souza were also present on the dais.

Fr Saldanha released the souvenir ‘Khursa Savlenth Amche Yuvajan’ and honoured all past directors, presidents, and secretaries.

He appreciated the members for their service to the parish from its inception as a Chapel, and for achieving individual heights in their careers.

Sunita Lobo welcomed the gathering.  Vinita Monteiro read the decennial report.  Jayaprakash D’Souza and Frekson Joy D’Souza compered the programme.

Konkani drama ‘Mila’ which was directed by its playwright Joy Nelson Monteiro, a member of the unit, was enacted by the elders of the parish together with the past and present members.  Sandeep Roche composed the music.