-News Rishon Barnes, Pics Ashish Andrade, Mayura Digitals.
Barkur, 20th December 2023: In an extravaganza of lights, talent, and accolades, the ICYM (Indian Catholic Youth Movement) Barkur unit pulled out all the stops to celebrate its 47th Annual Day on the evening of the Parish Feast day. The event unfolded as a grand spectacle, weaving together a tapestry of prayers, recognitions, and cultural performances that left the audience spellbound.
The ambiance was set ablaze with a captivating prayer song, enveloping the venue in an aura of reverence. The stage was adorned with an ensemble of distinguished guests, with Fr. Ronald Miranda, the Parish Priest, assuming the role of the President. The Chief Guest, the dynamic Fr. Reginald Pinto, Director of Sampada, graced the gathering with an air of anticipation.
A roll call of noteworthy personalities added to the star-studded affair. Fr. Rolwin Fernandes, Joseph Fernandes (Vice President of the Pastoral Council), Eric Soans (Secretary), and Herald D'Souza (Convener of 20 Commissions) shared the stage with Praveen Carvalho, the ICYM Animator, and Naveen Dias, the YCS Animator, creating an ensemble of luminaries.
The stage, presided over by the ICYM President and Secretary, became the epicenter of the evening's proceedings. While President Jasmine DSouza welcomed the guests n audience, Rishon Barnes, the ICYM Secretary, unleashed a whirlwind of emotions as he presented the Annual Report, encapsulating the unit's triumphs and trials of the past year.
The event reached its zenith during the prize distribution ceremony for ICYM, an electrifying moment of recognition and celebration. Jesvita, a rising star, claimed the 2nd rank in the state-level 2nd PUC exams, Sweezle's triumph as Miss Teen Universal Princess in Peru and Tanya's victory as Miss Fresh Face in a beauty pageant sent ripples of applause through the crowd. Dr. Manoj DLima, a figure of influence and resourcefulness, stood tall among the felicitated, while Alwyn Andrade's contributions were hailed with a thunderous applause.
Dr. Manoj took center stage with a captivating small talk, weaving anecdotes and wisdom. Alwyn Andrade, a beacon of achievement, was spotlighted for his relentless work.
Fr. Reginald, a maestro of inspiration, took the microphone, delivering a speech that echoed through the hearts of the audience. His words, a symphony of encouragement and guidance, resonated with the youth and elders alike. A token of appreciation was bestowed upon him, sealing the moment with a gesture of gratitude.
The spotlight shifted to the YCS, where outstanding contributions were acknowledged and applauded. The donor's list was unveiled, a testament to the benevolence that fueled the unit's endeavors.
Fr. Ronald Miranda took the stage, delivering a powerful speech that reverberated through the venue. His words of thanks and encouragement left an indelible mark on the hearts of those present.
Gavin D'Almeida, the orchestrator of gratitude, wove a tapestry of appreciation, extending heartfelt thanks to every contributor, participant, and spectator who added their essence to the event.
As the cultural program unfolded, an air of anticipation swept through the venue. The Legion of Mary set the stage with a mesmerizing prayer dance. The Expressions Trio, led by Stephen Lewis, Sujatha, and Alwyn Andrade, dazzled the audience with rib-tickling skits that were a theatrical marvel, aptly supported by Pradeep and Sunil Pandeshwara with the musical prowess of Avinash Ulthoor. The ICYM members took center stage, delivering dance performances that enraptured the onlookers.
Siya, took the mic for the final act, delivering a vote of thanks that echoed through the hearts of those who bore witness to this extraordinary evening.
The curtains descended on the 47th Annual Day celebration of ICYM Barkur, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of all present. It was not merely an event; it was a symphony of emotions, talent, and community spirit that will be etched in the annals of Barkur's history.
