29th Council Meeting of the Karnataka Regional Youth Commission (KRYC) held in Karwar

Karwar, 2 June 2025: The 29th Council Meeting of the Karnataka Regional Youth Commission (KRYC) was held on Sunday, June 1, at Puneeth Sadan, at the Bishop's House in Karwar. The meeting gathered youth leaders, clergy, and Commission members from across Karnataka to review past initiatives and plan for the upcoming Regional Youth Convention scheduled to be held from October 2 to 4, 2025, in Karwar.

The day began with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by the Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar and Deputy Chairman of KRYC. Most Rev. Dr. Henry D’Souza, Chairman of KRYC and Bishop of Bellary, preached the homily focused on the Ascension. He urged the youth to become dedicated disciples and leaders in their faith. He articulated the Resurrection of Christ as his victory over death, emphasising Jesus's transformed body after the Resurrection. He also compared Christ's Ascension into heaven as his victory over the world. Bishop D'Souza concluded his homily by emphasising the role of the faithful as the Mystical Body of Christ.

After the Mass, the Council Meeting was formally inaugurated with a lamp-lighting ceremony led by Mr. Dolrich Fernandes. Bishop Dias, Bishop D’Souza, Father Ashwin Cardoza, Father Lourd Raj, Sister Molly, and Ms. Vileena also participated in the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Mr. Akwil Fernandes delivered the welcome address, after which Mr. Ebin read out the minutes of the 28th council meeting. Ms. Jacinta delivered the vote of thanks.

A highlight of the day was the transition of leadership as Father Lourd Raj, outgoing Regional Youth Director, officially handed over responsibilities to his successor, Father Ashwin Cardoza. Later, department heads presented their reports, and the council engaged in strategic planning for the October convention.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to empower youth through faith, leadership, and service in the Church and society.

By Fr. Franklin D'Souza