Mangaluru: The Young Christian Students (YCS) Unit of Our Lady of Vailankanni Church, Farla, celebrated its Silver Jubilee with great fervour and joy through a grand event titled ‘Yuvotsav 2K25’. The celebration was marked by spiritual reflection, cultural showcases, and tributes to contributors and leaders who shaped the movement.

Thanksgiving Mass and logo unveiling

The day began with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Roshan D’Cunha, YCS Director of the Mangalore Diocese. This spiritual beginning set a reverent tone for the day. Fr. Roshan also inaugurated the programme by unveiling the Silver Jubilee logo, highlighting the youth as a golden phase of life, and urging all present to channel their energy toward societal transformation.

A special tribute was paid to late Pope Francis, with prayers offered for his soul and remembrance of his service to the Church and especially the youth.

Felicitation and recognition of contributors

A meaningful felicitation ceremony honoured individuals who have been instrumental to the growth of YCS Farla. Among them were:

  • Ms. Sabitha Monis, recognised for her exceptional achievements despite physical challenges.

  • Mr. Leswin Sequeira, Yuvatare Editor of YCS Mangalore Diocese and a proud member of the Farla Unit.

  • Former animators Mrs. Judith Pais and Mrs. Zita Menezes, and current animators Mrs. Sunitha Baptist and Ms. Josna Vas, for their continued guidance and support.

    • Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Mark D’Souza, in his presidential address, acknowledged the impactful service of YCS in the parish and encouraged the youth to lead by example. Mr. Anson Nazareth, National YCS President, inspired the audience with reflections on Pope Francis’s vision for youth engagement, emphasizing the Church’s role in shaping a conscientious generation.

    Cultural celebrations and documentary showcase

    In a compelling segment of the programme, Ms. Sabitha Monis shared her motivational life journey, leaving the audience deeply moved. The event also featured a documentary film tracing the 25-year journey of YCS Farla, offering nostalgic glimpses and highlighting milestones of the movement.

    Unit members dazzled the audience with a vibrant cultural dance performance, celebrating their unity and talent.

    Adding a touch of entertainment to the event, a Konkani comedy film titled ‘Lucky Draw 777’, directed and produced by Mr. Rayan Magneto, was screened, evoking laughter and delight among attendees.

    Notable dignitaries and reports

    The event saw the gracious presence of prominent personalities including:

    • Mr. Naveen Menezes – PPC Vice President

  • Mrs. Hilda Pereira – PPC Secretary

  • Mrs. Sunitha Rodrigues – All Commissions Coordinator

  • Mr. Deyon Saldanha – Diocesan YCS President

  • Ms. Ashlyn Lasrado – Unit President

    • Ms. Renita Monteiro presented the Annual Report of the Unit for the 2024–25 academic year, showcasing the wide-ranging initiatives undertaken by YCS Farla.

    Creative highlights and conclusion

    A key creative element of the celebration was the ‘Yuvotsav 2K25’ title track, composed by Mr. Leswin Sequeira and penned by Mrs. Sunitha Baptist, which added vibrancy and identity to the event. A flash mob based on the title track, performed on April 19 after the Easter Vigil Mass, had generated great anticipation for the Jubilee.

    The event concluded on a high note with the singing of the YCS Anthem, invoking pride and unity among all gathered.

    The programme was seamlessly anchored by Ms. Adline Vas, with a warm welcome by Ms. Ashlyn Lasrado and a heartfelt vote of thanks by Ms. Eva D’Souza, marking a fitting end to the day’s festivities.