Mangalore, Nov. 18: As the Year of Faith 2012-13, concluded thousands of catholic youth participated in a rally named ‘Walk for Christ’ organized by Diocesan Pastoral Parishad along with ICYM central council of Mangalore diocese in the city on Sunday on November 17.
After Dr Aloysius Paul D’souza, bishop of the Mangalore graced the event, the youth rally commenced from Milagres church, and culminated at Rosario Cathedral Church.
The rally was flagged off by the Vicar General of Mangalore diocese Msgr. Dennis Moras Prabhu by handing over the flags to the leaders of five youth organizations of the diocese. Catholic youth from around the district, walked around the city raising religious and patriotic slogans. They also showcased slogans for the community’s welfare and protection for women.
The “Teize Cross” symbolizing devotion was carried through the rally and taken to Rosario Cathedral. It was welcomed by the Vicar – Var of Episcopal city deanery Rev. Fr, JB Crasta.
Addressing the youth an adoration prayer was conducted by Fr Sunil D’Souza.
Raymond D’Souza, the national advisor of ICYM in his address said, “It has been proved that you live in the faith of Christ, as you have marked this rally on the advice of your respective priests and bishops. The catholic youth must act as a change maker of the society. Through our service our community is responsible to initiate development in the country. Thus I urge the youth to be the change makers of the society”, he added.
MLA of South Mangalore JR Lobo said, “We should live with faith in Christ, it is the faith of Christ that has given me the strength in my career for the past 20 years as a bureaucrat. So if you have complete faith in the Lord you can achieve anything in life”, he added.
In his presidential address, Dr Aloysius Paul D’souza, bishop of the Mangalore said, “I appreciate the youth for their presence in such a gigantic number; it is only because of their faith that we have been able to unite such a large number of participation in the event.”
“We need to motivate such programs and work for the betterment of the church and the society”, he added.
The convener of the rally Fr Nelson Pinto delivered the vote of thanks while Nelson Monis compered the event.
The rally was held as part of the ending ceremony of the Year of the Faith which will follow event to be held from November 22 to November 24 at Nehru Maidan. The following events will be witnessed by over 25,000 catholic devotees from Mangalore Diocese and the neighbouring dioceses. The co – organizers of the rally were YCS/ YSM Mangalore Diocese, YU4C, Jesus Youth and ICUF.
