National Youth Directors Meeting – Cochin

22nd August, 2025 : The Karnataka Region of CCBI Youth Commission demonstrated its unity and collective strength by actively participating in the 12th National Youth Directors Meeting held in Cochin. The Karnataka delegation, led by Regional Youth Director and the ICYM Director, Mangalore, Rev. Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, included directors from various dioceses across the region, such as Fr. Roshan D’ Cunha (YCS/YSM Director, Mangalore), Fr. Steevan Fernandes (ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Udupi), Fr. Agnel Baretto (ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Belgaum), Fr. Maria Xavier( ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Mysore), Rev. Fr. George Fernandes (ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Chikmagalur), Fr. Sachin Christy(ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Gulbarga), Fr. Lourd Raj (ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Ballary) Fr. Franklin D’Souza (ICYM/YCS/YSM Director, Shimoga).

The meeting served as a platform to highlight Karnataka’s significant contributions to diocesan youth activities, particularly focusing on the “seven ways to witness Christ in today’s world” as proposed by the Chairman, Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Ignatius D'Souza. These ways emphasize: faith, Joy, Service, Integrity, Digital presence, Unity, and Holiness.

The discussion included plenary sessions on youth leadership, digital evangelization, and integral formation, alongside efforts to strengthen collaboration with other Indian regions for mutual learning and solidarity.

The gathering provided valuable insights for Karnataka’s youth ministry, centered on four key areas: 1. Witnessing Christ Today: Rooted in joy, integrity, unity, service, and digital presence. 2. Ecological Responsibility: inspired by a campaign to plant 3000 trees, encouraging “co-initiatives.” 3. Collaborative Mission: Stressing “regional networking: among the dioceses for a stronger youth program. 4. Leadership formation: Drawing inspiration from St. Bernard’s vision, calling leaders to shepherd with compassion.

The Karnataka region’s active participation in the 12th National Youth Directors Meeting underscores its unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant and dynamic youth ministry.

Regional Youth Office,
Subodhana, Bangalore.