350+ Young Singles Gather in Mangalore for Meet and Greet Gala

Mangalore, July 21, 2025 — More than 350 young single Catholics from across the Mangalore region gathered at St. Joseph’s Engineering College, Vamanjoor, for a dynamic “Meet and Greet Gala” aimed at fostering faith-based conversations, authentic relationships, and discerning marriage within the Catholic tradition.

Organised by the Family Life Service Centre, Mangalore, in collaboration Catholic Connect Matrimony and with the support of Missionary Families of Christ (MFC), the event offered a respectful, spiritually enriching space where youth could connect with others who share similar values and aspirations.

Chief Guest Mr. Arun Ajekar delivered a compelling keynote address on the importance of Catholic marriage, the value of lifelong commitment, and discerning God’s will in choosing a life partner. Rev. Fr. Alwyn Richard Dsouza, Director of the Family Life Service Centre, encouraged participants to approach the day with faith and openness.

The gathering featured structured interaction sessions, where participants introduced themselves and took part in guided conversations designed to build mutual respect and understanding. Personal testimonies from individuals who had found love through trust in God’s timing added an emotional and inspirational depth to the event.

Interactive games and group activities fostered a friendly and joyful atmosphere, helping to ease conversations and build rapport among attendees. The spiritual highlight of the day was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, led by Very Rev. Msgr. Maxim Lawrence Noronha and Rev. Fr. Alwyn Richard Dsouza.

Participants continued to connect during the fellowship lunch, which offered further opportunities for informal interaction and community-building. An informative session by Nishal Preetham Dsouza and Naveen Antony Dsouza introduced the Catholic Connect initiative under the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI). They presented the Catholic Connect app and website, which provides a range of services including matrimony, Catholic community networking, and spiritual resources.

The day concluded with a vote of thanks from Fr. Alwyn Richard Dsouza, who expressed gratitude to the organisers, volunteers, and spirited youth whose presence made the event a success. Surprise gifts were distributed to all attendees as a parting gesture.

The Meet and Greet Gala fostered meaningful connections and affirmed that relationships rooted in Christ can flourish when guided by shared values and community support. The event stood as a reminder that the Church continues to walk with its youth—helping them discover love, vocation, and God’s plan for their lives.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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