ICYM Belthangady Deanary Stay Camp 2026

Madanthyar, July 18: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Belthangady Deanery, in collaboration with ICYM Madanthyar Unit, successfully organised the  Stay Camp 2026 at Sacred Heart Community Hall, Madanthyar. Around 70 youth leaders representing various ICYM units of the deanery participated in the two-day camp aimed at strengthening leadership, unity, and commitment towards the youth movement.

The participants were welcomed by Mr. Elroy Rodrigues, President of ICYM Madanthyar Unit. The camp was inaugurated through a unique puzzle-unveiling ceremony symbolising unity, leadership, and teamwork. The programme was presided over by Rev. Fr. Stany Goveas and graced by Diocesan Director Fr. Praveen D'Souza, Deanery Director Rev. Fr. Larry Franklin Pinto, and other dignitaries. During the inaugural session, the gathering felicitated the newly elected Treasurer of ICYM Mangalore Diocese Mr.Bavil Robin Fernandes and welcomed Ms. Renita Maria Cardoza, Secretary of ICYM Mangalore Diocese and Diocese representative to Belthangady Deanery. The dignitaries encouraged the youth to strengthen their faith, actively participate in the Church, and serve society through committed leadership. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Deanery president Mr.Clinton Pinto and  presented   tokens of appreciation.  An energetic animation by the newly elected Diocesan Executive Committee was conducted. 

A major highlight of the stay camp was the inspiring session by resource person Mr. Elson Hirgan. Sharing his journey as a youth leader, he motivated the participants to become active and responsible members of ICYM. Through interactive discussions, practical examples, and thought-provoking questions, he explained the importance of leadership, teamwork, and organising meaningful programmes in every ICYM unit. He also led a reflective prayer session, inspiring the participants to deepen their faith and commitment to youth ministry.

Following the sessions, the participants enjoyed dinner and a lively DJ programme that fostered fellowship among the youth. The Diocesan Director later addressed the gathering on the importance of youth participation in the Diocese, while the Diocesan President Mr. Christon Menezes briefed the participants about upcoming diocesan programmes and sought the support of all deanery units.

The participants were then divided into groups for a sharing session, where they reflected on their experiences and involvement in the youth movement. The evening concluded with an entertaining campfire organised by the Deanery Executive Committee (DEXCO), featuring games, activities, and interactive programmes that strengthened friendship and team spirit.

The second day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, followed by the Deanery Council Meeting to discuss future plans and activities of ICYM. The stay camp concluded with the participants returning to their respective units with renewed enthusiasm, stronger leadership skills, and a deeper commitment to serving the Church and society through ICYM.

MADANTHYAR  19 July: To foster environmental awareness and community spirit, Sacred Heart Church, Madanthyar, celebrated Environment Day and Vanamahotsava today following the 7:45 AM Holy Mass. Organized under the leadership of the Parisar Aayog (Environment Commission), the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the entire parish.

​The program commenced with a meaningful prayer  invoking God's blessings for the preservation of nature.

Rev. Fr. Stany Pinto, along with the main guest Rev. Fr. Larry Pinto, officially launched the green drive by planting fruit saplings on the church premises.

​Showcasing unity, all 22 wards of the parish actively participated, with each ward contributing one or two saplings to the initiative.

​A total of approximately 35 saplings were brought together today by the different church associations and ward members. The plantation drive will continue systematically over the next two days until all saplings are successfully planted across the campus.

​In his presidential address, Rev. Fr. Stany Goveas emphasized the vital importance of trees in sustaining life. He urged the faithful to take proactive steps to safeguard the planet, stating, "It is our sacred duty to protect the environment by planting and actively nurturing more trees for future generations."

​The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Marcel Madtha, Coordinator of the Parisar Aayog, who expressed deep gratitude to the clergy, the associations, and all 22 ward members for making the celebration a meaningful success.

​Madanthyar: In a heart-warming initiative to foster a spirit of empathy and service, the confirmation students of Sacred Heart Church, Madanthyar, undertook a meaningful field visit to the Seon Ashram Trust in Gandibagilu, Belthangady.

​The group of 80 students was accompanied by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Stany Goveas, Assistant Parish Priest, Fr. Larry Pinto, two religious sisters, and four lay leaders. Following lunch, the group departed for the Ashram, arriving at 3:00 PM.

​Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by Dr. U.C. Paulose, the head of Seon Ashram. Rev. Fr. Stany Goveas introduced the purpose of the visit, highlighting the importance of understanding the struggles of the marginalized and learning the true meaning of selfless service.

​The Ashram team conducted an insightful orientation program for the visitors, detailing the wide range of humanitarian services rendered by the institution to the destitute and needy. The highlight of the afternoon was a guided tour of the wards, where the students had the opportunity to interact directly with the inmates—whom the Ashram staff lovingly refers to as "Angels."

​This interaction proved to be a transformative experience for the students, offering them a firsthand look at the challenges faced by the residents and the immense power of compassionate care. The visit concluded with an emotional experience-sharing session, where students, teachers, and the priests shared their reflections on the day’s events.

​After capturing a group photograph to commemorate the visit, the group began their journey home at 6:00 PM. The students returned with not only a deeper understanding of social responsibility but also a renewed commitment to serving those in need within their own communities.

Madanthayr, June 14: ICYM Madanthyar Unit was honored with the prestigious Gonzalo Garcia Award during the diocesan ICYM gathering held at St. Francis Xavier Church, Bejai, on Sunday. The programme commenced at 2:30 p.m. in the presence of clergy, dignitaries, and youth representatives from various parishes of the Mangalore Diocese.

The award was presented by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, in recognition of the unit's outstanding commitment to youth leadership, service, and active participation in parish and community activities.

A total of 20 youth members from ICYM Madanthyar Unit participated in the award ceremony. Representatives of different ICYM units and priests from across the diocese were also present on the occasion. Fr. Larry Pinto, Assistant Director, and Mrs. Wilma Pinto, Animator, accompanied the unit during this proud moment.

The recognition reflects the dedication, teamwork, and hard work of the members who have actively contributed to various spiritual, social, cultural, and service-oriented initiatives throughout the year.

ICYM Madanthyar Unit expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Director, Assistant Director, animators, supporters, well-wishers, parishioners, and all members whose encouragement and commitment made this achievement possible. The unit also thanked Almighty God for His abundant blessings and guidance.

This achievement serves as an inspiration for the members to continue serving with greater enthusiasm, strengthen their faith, and work together for the betterment of the Church and society.

MADANTHYAR 14th June:A seminar on "Modern Agricultural Methods" was successfully held at the Sacred Heart Community Hall here on Tuesday, 14th July 2026. Jointly organized by the Center for Development, Peace and Justice (CODP), the Environment Commission, and the Catholic Sabha, the event aimed to empower local farmers with innovative farming techniques.

The program commenced at 10:00 AM and was inaugurated by **Rev. Fr. Stany Govea**, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, Madanthyar. In his inaugural address, Fr. Govea emphasized the critical need for adopting modern agricultural practices. He urged the farming community to transition from traditional methods to tech-driven, sustainable farming to maximize yields and profitability.

The core technical session was conducted by **Mr. Joe Pradeep D'Souza**, who served as the resource person for the day. Delivering a comprehensive presentation, Mr. D'Souza guided the attendees through key aspects of modern farming, including:

Optimal place, crop, and seed variety selection.Structuring a farm model that ensures a steady cash flow through a mix of daily, monthly, and yearly income crops.

The event was graced by Rev. Fr. Lary Pinto (Assistant Parish Priest), Mr. Ronald Mascarenhas, Mr. Marcel D'Souza, Mr. Vincent D'Souza, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Richard, and Mr. Jossy.Mr. Vincent warmly welcomed the gathering, while Mr. Marcel D'Souza introduced the day's guests and resource person.

Breakfast break provided to all attendees, an interactive session was held where participants actively shared their views, discussed local farming challenges, and exchanged feedback.My Leo Rodrigues thanked all.

The seminar concluded on a high note, with attendees expressing deep gratitude to the organizing bodies for hosting an informative and timely initiative.

MADANTHYAR 12th June: The parish feast of the Sacred Heart Church, Madanthyar, was celebrated with immense grandeur, spiritual fervor, and a deep sense of community on Friday, June 12, 2026. The main celebratory events commenced at 6:00 PM at the beautifully decorated Church Community Hall, bringing together hundreds of parishioners, visiting clergy, and well-wishers.​The celebration began with Rev. Fr. Stany Goveas, the Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, distributing honorals (candles) to the donors and benefactors as a token of gratitude for their selfless generosity toward the parish.
​Following this, the Solemn Festive Mass was concelebrated. Rev. Fr. Roshan Crasta, the Parish Priest of Badyar, was the main celebrant. In his touching and inspiring homily, Fr. Roshan Crasta emphasized the profound theme of love. He called upon the faithful to model their lives after the Sacred Heart of Jesus, reminding everyone that "our hearts must always be filled with love, compassion, and forgiveness for one another."The Parish Pastoral Council meticulously organized and conducted the liturgy. The solemnity and beauty of the Eucharistic celebration were significantly heightened by the melodious hymns sung by the parish choir. ​The feast was graced by a large gathering of priests from the Belthangady Varado (Deanery), including the Vicar Var (Vicar Forane), Rev. Fr. Walter D’Mello. Notably, several priests who had previously served the Madanthyar parish joined to the celebration, rekindling fond memories with the parishioners.

In a warm gesture of fraternity, the priests who are newly appointed to the Belthangady deanery were formally introduced to the gathering. They were cordially welcomed with eco-friendly plant pots, symbolizing growth and new beginnings. Marking a digital milestone for the parish, the brand-new Church Website, meticulously built and designed by the Social Communication Commission, was officially inaugurated by the Vicar Var, Rev. Fr. Walter D’Mello. The website aims to connect the global Madanthyar diaspora and keep parishioners updated on church activities.Towards the end of the celebration, Rev. Fr. Larry Pinto, the Assistant Parish Priest, made the parish announcements and delivered the vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the feast.​The grand feast was preceded by a spiritually enriching three-day. The Triduum was animated by the OCD Priests from Ashadeepa, Madanthyar. Over the three days, they led the parish community in deep spiritual preparation by offering Holy Masses for various special intentions and conducting soulful Eucharistic Adoration, preparing the hearts of the faithful for the main feast.
​The celebration concluded on a high note of community bonding with a grand .Demonstrating true unity, the delicious meal was entirely cooked and served by the enthusiastic parishioners of Madanthyar, showcasing their spirit of service and togetherness.
​The parish clergy and the council extend their warmest festive wishes to all parishioners and devotees.
​May the Sacred Heart of Jesus bless you all abundantly!