Barkur, December 2025 – The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Barkur Unit is preparing to mark a significant milestone as it completes 49 years since its establishment and steps into its 50th year. The unit will officially launch its Golden Jubilee Year celebrations with an inaugural ceremony on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM at St. Peter Church, Barkur.
Historic Milestone for Youth Movement
The ICYM Barkur Unit, formerly known as C.Y.M., has been serving the parish and community for nearly five decades. To commemorate this remarkable journey, parish vicar Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda convened a consultative meeting on October 19 following Sunday Mass. The meeting brought together current ICYM members, former presidents, and members of the financial committee to discuss the jubilee celebrations.
Inauguration by Bishop of Bellary
The Golden Jubilee inauguration ceremony will be graced by Most Rev. Dr. Henry D'Souza, Bishop of Bellary Diocese, who was the architect of CYM Barkur as his Founder Director in the year 1976, will preside over the blessings and inaugural function. Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda has graciously accepted the responsibility of inviting the Bishop for this momentous occasion.
The inaugural ceremony will take place after the church Vesper's celebrations, coinciding with the annual day celebrations traditionally held by ICYM Barkur Unit on the Parish Feast day.
Golden Jubilee Committee Formed
A dedicated Golden Jubilee Committee has been constituted to ensure the success of the yearlong celebrations:
Leadership:
- Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda - Director
- Mr. Herald D'Souza - President
- Dr. Manoj Maxim D'Lima - Vice President
- Mrs. Vivet Lewis - Hon. Secretary
- Mr. Eric Soans - Souvenir Editor
ICYM Current Office Bearers:
- Mr. Rian Angelo Arouza - ICYM President
- Miss Rashel Gonsalves - ICYM Secretary
- Mr. Johnson D'Almeida - ICYM Animator
Committee Members:
- Mr. Joseph Fernandes
- Mr. Joseph D'Souza
- Mr. Edwin Picardo
- Mr. Dolphy D'Souza
- Mr. Franklin Fernandes
- Mr. Jerald Gonsalves
- Mr. Pius D'Souza
- Mr. Praveen Carvalho
- Mr. Naveen Dias
Representatives from Diaspora:
- Mr. Vincent D'Almeida (U.S.A.) - Representing former presidents abroad
- Mr. Eric Carvalho - St. Peter Association Mumbai
- Mr. Alwyn Pinto - St. Peter Association Bangalore
- Mr. Walter D'Almeida - Emirates Barkurians
The committee will continue its work throughout the next year to organize various programs and activities as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Community Support and Participation
During the October meeting at the parish mini hall, current ICYM members presented the proposal for Golden Jubilee celebrations, which received enthusiastic support from former presidents and financial committee members. The gathering unanimously agreed to extend full cooperation for the jubilee year celebrations.
The decision to launch the jubilee year on the ICYM annual day reflects the unit's tradition of celebrating its founding while looking forward to organizing meaningful programs throughout the jubilee year.
A Legacy of Service
The ICYM Barkur Unit has been instrumental in nurturing young Catholic youth in the parish, providing them with opportunities for spiritual growth, social service, and community engagement. As the unit embarks on its 50th year, it stands as a testament to the dedication of generations of young members who have contributed to the church and society.
The entire parish community of St. Peter Church, Barkur, along with well-wishers from around the world, are invited to be part of this historic inaugural ceremony on December 16, 2025.
For more information about the Golden Jubilee celebrations, please contact the ICYM Barkur Unit or visit St. Peter Church, Barkur.