ICYM Mangalore DCC Organises ‘Ember 2026’ at Maniyampare Igniting Faith, Leadership, and Unity Among Youth
Maniyampare: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Mangalore Diocese Central Council successfully 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 commenced on March 20 with registration, followed by a solemn inaugural ceremony. Dignitaries present on the dais included Very Rev. Fr. Stany Pereira, Vicar Forane of Kasaragod Deanery; Rev. Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Karnataka Regional Youth Commission Secretary and ICYM Mangalore Diocese Director; Rev. Fr. Vishal Monis, ICYM Kasaragod Deanery Director; Rev. Fr. Nelson Dalmeida, Parish Priest of Maniyampare and Unit Director; Mr. Wilson D’Souza, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mrs. Monica Machado, Secretary; Mr. Sunil D’Souza, Animator of ICYM Maniyampare Unit; Ms. Dyaphni D’Souza, Unit President; and Mr. Austin D’Souza, Unit Secretary.
The programme began with a prayer led by the Maniyampare unit, followed by a welcome address by Unit President Dyaphni D’Souza.
In his inaugural address, Chief Guest Very Rev. Fr. Stany Pereira emphasized the importance of nurturing leadership within every individual, beautifully linking his message to the theme, “The Spark that Multiplies.”
Rev. Fr. Nelson Dalmeida encouraged the youth to make the most of the camp and actively engage in leadership learning opportunities. Rev. Fr. Vishal Monis urged participants to remain energetic and involved throughout the sessions.
A felicitation ceremony honoured the dignitaries, with special appreciation extended to the ICYM Maniyampare unit and parish leadership for their support and hospitality.
Rev. Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, in his message, highlighted the importance of the “three Ds” — Discipline, Dedication, and Divinity — as essential qualities of effective leadership.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ronald Chethan, ICYM Kasaragod Deanery President, and was compered by Maria Caroline.
The evening featured the ceremonial lighting of the campfire by Rev. Fr. Vishal Monis, followed by interactive activities that fostered unity and enthusiasm. A candlelight rosary procession to the grotto of Mother Mary brought the first day to a prayerful close.
Spiritual Growth and Leadership Formation
The second day began with morning prayers and physical exercises. Participants then undertook the Way of the Cross to Yenmakaje Somaje Hill, organized by Rev. Fr. Royal Vijay Fernandes and Rev. Fr. Kiran Nazareth (Salesians of Don Bosco). The youth carried the cross through each station, singing Lenten hymns and offering prayers in deep devotion.
Animation sessions conducted by ICYM diocesan executive members followed. A key session by Rev. Fr. Kiran Nazareth focused on leadership styles, personal growth, relationships, and friendship. Through interactive activities and discussions, participants gained valuable insights into personality development and self-awareness.
A panel discussion on “Ember: Career and Faith” encouraged thoughtful engagement, with participants actively contributing to meaningful discussions.
The day also included outdoor activities such as cricket, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship. In a unique exercise, participants were divided into teams and tasked with preparing dinner, showcasing coordination, creativity, and leadership in action.
The evening cultural programme featured skits, dances, and performances by the teams, along with a special presentation by the ICYM Maniyampare unit. The day concluded with a community rosary.
Valedictory and Social Outreach
The final day began with Eucharistic Adoration, followed by the Way of the Cross and Holy Mass. A YOUCAT session provided a platform for participants to reflect on faith and seek clarifications.
During the valedictory programme, ICYM Mangalore Diocese President Vijoy Ashwin Cardoza welcomed the gathering. Team representatives shared their experiences, describing the camp as spiritually enriching and transformative. The Way of the Cross and the cooking activity were highlighted as particularly memorable.
Rev. Fr. Nelson Dalmeida appreciated the discipline and active participation of the youth and commended the collaborative efforts of the parish and volunteers.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Maria D’Silva, ICYM Mangalore Diocese Central Council Secretary, while Muriel Hansil Mascarenhas compered the programme. Dignitaries present included Rev. Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Rev. Fr. Nelson Dalmeida, Mr. Wilson D’Souza, Mrs. Monica Machado, Mr. Sunil D’Souza, and Mr. Austin D’Souza.
As part of a meaningful outreach initiative, participants undertook service activities such as cleaning the parish graveyard and repairing damaged cemetery walls, reflecting a strong spirit of service and community responsibility.
The camp concluded with ward visits, where participants shared their experiences and faith reflections with parish communities, before dispersing, marking the successful culmination of Ember 2026.
– Report by Suzannha Ferrao, PRO, ICYM Mangalore Diocese