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The Youth Commission of the Shimoga diocese - Yuvamitra, organized a special event named “Be Rooted” from May 10th to May 13th, 2024, at St. Aloysius College in Harihar. This fest aimed to encourage young people to shine, lead, and contribute in building a new society and making society cleaner, healthier, and fairer.

Members from the Young Catholic Students/Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM) and the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), along with their parents, came together for the fest. Not only from the diocese but young minds from the nearby dioceses also joined, making it a big gathering of youth.
The fest began with the Eucharistic celebration celebrated by Most Rev. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Shimoga. Later, different activities like tests and study sessions on important topics like addiction and faith were conducted.

The program includeed an aptitude test hosted by Dr. Shalini and Mr. Isaac Thomas, along with sessions covering topics such as addiction and choices, faith discussions, insights into worldly realities, reciprocal sessions, Gospel band, Taize and Intereligious prayer, worship session, panel discussions, and a presentation on the significance of youth movements by Rev. Fr Lourdraj, the Regional Youth Director of Karnataka Region and session on importance of prayer by Rev. Fr. Anil Prasad. Additionally, there was an introduction to Youcat, a youth gallery, a pro-life exhibition, and a prayer tower, offering opportunities for young people to connect both with others and with their faith. Invitations were extended to the former National YCS/YSM Coordinator Mr. Abhishek Bhattacharjee, who shared his experience in YCS YSM and YCS/YSM National President Mr. Anson Nazareth shared the importance and role of YCS YSM and ICYM in changing the self and the society to build God’s kingdom.

After a prolonged journey of diligent effort, Diocesan Youth newsletter, ‘Moggu,’ meaning ‘flower bud was released.’ This momentous occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Most Rev Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

All the young students got involved with a lot of energy and excitement. There were prayer sessions, Taize Prayer, exhibitions, and fun activities where we could connect with each other and with God.

Few outstanding young people of the diocese were awarded with the “Yuvakeerthi” award. These are the ones who’ve worked hard to make a difference in the society. Former leaders of YCS/YSM and ICYM were recognized for their selfless service to build the youth movements in the diocese and beyond.
Ms Jesvita D’Souza was honored during the programme on being elected as the Karnataka regional president for YCS YSM. Ms Supriya Varghese belonging to Shimoga diocese who serves as the General Secretary of ICYM was also present for the programme.
After all the celebrations and program, the fest ended with a colourful cultural event and a final Mass celebrated by Most Rev Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar on 13th May 2024. It was a joyful way to wrap up the time together.

In the end, “Be Rooted” showed the power of coming together as young people, celebrating faith, and being inspired to make world a better place.