Shimoga Diocese

Yuva Habba 2K25 – A Celebration of Faith and Joy for the Youth of Shimoga Diocese

Shimoga, August 11, 2025: On 10 August 2025, the Yuvamitra, Youth Commission of the Diocese of Shimoga, organized YUVA HABBA (Youth Jubilee) – National Youth Sunday at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shimoga. This special event brought together 250 youth and 25 animators from various parts of the diocese to celebrate their faith and shared experiences.
The program commenced with a brief introduction by the youth, followed by an inaugural ceremony led by Msgr. Very Rev. Fr. Stany D’Souza, Vicar General of the Diocese of Shimoga. The theme of the day was “You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me” (Jn 15:27), set the tone for the day of reflection and celebration.
Special guests for the program included Rev. Fr. Simon Pinto (Coordinator of Diocesan Pastoral Commissions), Mr. Colin Calmiano (International Speaker), Ms. Supriya Varghese (ICYM National General Secretary), and Ms. Jesvita D’Souza (YCS/YSM Regional President).
Mr. Colin Calmiano shared his inspiring life story and spoke about how God transformed his life during his youth, encouraging the young attendees to live with faith and follow God’s path.
The Holy Mass was celebrated by Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Shimoga Diocese. Msgr. Stany D’Souza, Fr. Simon Pinto, Fr. Pius D'Souza (SMSSS - Chaitanya Executive Director), Fr. Jostro MSFS (Assistant Parish Priest of Cathedral), Fr. Franklin D'Souza (Diocesan Youth Director) and Deacon Johnson SJ concelebrated the Holy Eucharist.
The afternoon session included fun and interactive activities, where three young individuals from the Diocese — Ms. Priya Maria D’Souza, Mr. Suhas Martin, and Mr. Stephen Lobo — shared their experiences attending the Jubilee Year celebration in Rome from July 28 to August 3, 2025.
Additionally, Former YCS member Rev. Sr. Sheetal BS from St. Joseph's Church, Sagar, and Former ICYM president Mr. Santhosh, native of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Kargal, shared their memories and the impact of the movement on their lives.
The event also included business brand promotion by various young entrepreneurs from the diocese. The day ended with joy, friendship, and a promise to live as witnesses of Christ. This event was supported by Communio. Diocesan Youth Director Rev. Fr. Franklin D'Souza proposed a general vote of thanks.
Report by: Jesvita D'Souza, Hosanagara
Photos by: Raju, Shimoga