Mangalore Diocesan YCS Ignites Leadership in Youth Mentors at ‘EMPOWER 2K26’

The Young Catholic Students (YCS) movement of the Diocese of Mangalore hosted its annual leadership and training convention, EMPOWER 2K26, at the Saint Rita Church Hall in Cascia. The event drew a large and enthusiastic gathering of YCS Animators from Parishes across the diocese, all focused on strengthening youth mentorship.

Shaping Future Leaders Rooted in Faith:

The program was formally inaugurated by Msgr. Maxim L. Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese of Mangalore. In his inaugural address, Msgr. Noronha highlighted the vital role animators play in guiding the modern youth. “YCS animators carry the profound responsibility of shaping young minds into responsible, faith-filled leaders for both the Church and society,” Msgr. Noronha stated, extending his blessings for the event’s success.

The traditional ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp by Msgr. Noronha, alongside YCS Diocesan Director Rev. Fr Roshan Dcunha, Diocesan Coordinator Janet Pinto, Animator Ruben Dsouza, Diocesan President Ryan Mendonca and Diocesan Secretary Sweedal Dsouza. Guest of Honour Rev. Fr Rithesh Rodrigues, Parish Priest of Cascia, also addressed the gathering, noting that investing in youth training right now is critical as they form the foundational future of the community.

Dynamic Sessions and Panel Discussions:

The core of EMPOWER 2K26 featured two high-impact educational sessions led by resource persons Vandana Dsouza and Elson Dsouza. These segments focused on practical mentorship strategies and understanding youth dynamics.

Following the sessions, an interactive panel discussion was moderated by Rev. Fr Rupesh Madtha and Richard Alvares, allowing animators to exchange ideas, address real-world challenges in youth ministry, and share best practices. The morning segments were seamlessly coordinated, with Jeanne delivering the welcome address and Joslyn anchoring the inaugural ceremony.

A Call to Purposeful Mission:

The convention concluded with a solemn valedictory program graced by Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar and Convener of Pastoral Commissions for the Mangalore Diocese. In his concluding charge, Fr Pinto urged the animators to instill a clear sense of direction and purpose in their students. He challenged the youth to remain fiercely committed to their mission as active, socially responsible Catholic citizens.

The event drew to a close with a vote of thanks proposed by YCS Director Rev. Fr Roshan Dcunha, while Sweedal Dsouza compered the final proceedings. Participants left the venue re-energized, equipped with fresh insights to continue their journey of faith, social responsibility, and community service.