Karnataka Regional Students Leadership Training Program (RSLTP) Begins at Don Bosco Mission, Davanagere
Davanagere, May 2, 2025: The Regional Students Leadership Training Program (RSLTP) of the Young Catholic Students/Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM) commenced at the Don Bosco Centre, Davanagere, in the Diocese of Shimoga on May 1, 2025. Fifty young student leaders and twenty-five YCS animators gathered for this four-day program.
On Day 1, students from nine dioceses across Karnataka arrived for the event. The program began with an introduction by YCS/YSM National President Mr. Anson Nazareth and the REXCO team, followed by instructions from Fr. Lourd Raj, Regional Youth Director (RYD), and Fr. Franklin D’Souza, Diocesan Youth Director of Shimoga.
After lunch, Mr. Anson Nazareth led ice-breaking activities to help participants get acquainted. The inaugural Holy Eucharist was then celebrated by Fr. Lourd Raj, with Fr. Franklin D’Souza delivering a meaningful homily. He reflected on the purpose of human existence and the mandate given by Lord Jesus Christ to love, serve, and forgive. He emphasized that leadership is a gift from God, to be exercised with conviction, confidence, and courage. He reminded the students that every human being is a divine gift and encouraged them to create an atmosphere of love, peace, and joy. Fr. Sachin Christy, Youth Director of Gulbarga Diocese, and Fr. George Fernandes, Youth Director of Chikmagalur Diocese, were also present.
The inaugural ceremony began with a prayer dance by Ms. Alisha Bishop, Vice President of the YCS/YSM Karnataka Region. Ms. Jesvita D’Souza, the Karnataka Regional President, welcomed the gathering. Fr. Lourd Raj delivered the keynote address. Ms. Vileena, the KRYC Coordinator, and Fr. Alvine Stanislaus, YCS/YSM Little Flower Deanery Director from the Shimoga Diocese, also shared their thoughts.
Fr. Antony Nazareth, Parish Priest of St. Thomas Church, Davanagere, delivered the presidential address. The group also celebrated his ordination anniversary.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Allen, Vice President of the YCS/YSM Karnataka Region. The event was compered by Ms. Jiya Coutinho, Cultural and Liturgical Secretary.
After dinner, Fr. Regi Jacob, Director of the Don Bosco Child Labour Mission in Davanagere, delivered a compelling lecture on child rights, the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), the Juvenile Justice Act (JJA), and the Don Bosco Mission’s Open Shelter. His presentation was highly inspiring and well-received. He was later felicitated by the YCS REXCO team.
The day concluded with an evaluation session and a blessing prayer by Fr. Franklin D’Souza.
