Karwar Diocese

"KRYC Council Meeting 2025 Held in Karwar to plan for Milestones Jubilee celebrations"

The Karnataka Regional Youth Commission (KRYC) convened its annual council meeting on June 1, 2025, at Bishops House in Karwar, with a primary focus on planning the upcoming Regional Youth Convention (RYC). This year’s convention holds profound significance as it commemorates the Ruby Jubilee (40 years) of youth commission and the Silver Jubilee (25 years) of ICYM – two landmark celebrations in the vibrant journey of youth ministry in the region.

The meeting commenced with a solemn inaugural ceremony. Mr. Dolreich Fernandes, a young entrepreneur, lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the formal beginning of the KRYC Council meeting and expressing his commitment to support the convention in his capacity.

The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including the Chairman Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Henry D’Souza, Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias the Bishop of Karwar, Fr. Lourd Raj (outgoing RYD), Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza (newly appointed RYD), Fr. Silvan Rodrigues (Karwar DYD), Sr. Molly (RYLA), and Vileena Gonsalves (KRYC Coordinator and ICYM president).

The presence of both bishops added significant depth to the discussions, encouraging a thoughtful examination of the region’s resources, opportunities, challenges and financial feasibility. Their wisdom helped ensure that the celebrations would be both impactful and realistic.

Vileena Gonsalves, as the KRYC coordinator, officially opened the meeting and skillfully guided the proceedings with the support of the Bishops and RYDs. Representatives from all youth movements were present, reflecting the unity and collective dedication to making the upcoming RYC a memorable and efficiently organized event.

A key moment in the gathering was the symbolic transition of leadership, as Fr. Lourd Raj formally handed over responsibilities to Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza by presenting him with the official document file. The council paused to honor both leaders – Fr. Lourd Raj for his outstanding six years of dedicated service and Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza for embracing his new role with vision and enthusiasm.

In a heartfelt gesture, Fr. Lourd Raj was presented with a memento and tokens of appreciation for his exceptional leadership and invaluable contributions to the youth of the region. Bishop Duming Dias expressed his joy and sense of responsibility in hosting the upcoming RYC in his diocese, recognizing it as both an honor and a challenge.

The meeting concluded with the distribution of Jubilee Crosses to all the dioceses, followed by a special blessing prayer led by Bishop Duming Dias. The 2025 KRYC Council Meeting was a testament to unity, learning, and purposeful planning, laying a strong foundation for a remarkable and faith-filled youth convention ahead.