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Mangalore:  The 10^th National Youth Convention of ICYM concluded with a Peace Rally held at the city on Sunday, the 22^nd Jan 2017 attended by thousands of youth and delegates from all over India.The peace rally began at the Rosario School ground Inaugurated by MLA  Mr. J.R. Lobo and MLC Mr. Ivan D’Souza by releasing the pigeons and then flagged off by Arch Bishop of Bangalore Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras.  The huge rally took to the streets of Mangalore from Rosario School (Near State Bank) and marched towards St. Aloysius College to the main street through the Hampankatta singing, dancing and holding peace placards.   

The closing ceremony took place at the end of the peace rally at the St. Aloysius College which included cultural programs from youth from all over India.

The Valedictory function was attended by all bishops of the region mainly Most. Rev. Henry D’Sousa (Bishop of Bellary and Convener of NYC National Convention) Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza (Bishop of Mangalore), Most Rev. Dr. Jerald Isac Lobo (Bishop of Udupi Diocese), Justice Joseph Kurian (Judge, Supreme Court), MLA Mr. J. R. Lobo, MLC Ivan D’Sousa, Most Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras (Arch-Bishop Bangalore), Mr. Oscar Fernandes (Member of Rajya Sabha) and many other dignitaries and ICYM officials.

Speaking on the occasion Justice Joseph Kurian reminded the youth of fundamental rights of the every citizen.  To be good Christian one needs to become a good Citizen of India.  “ I’m an Indian First and then Christian.  Both Indian Constitution and Catholic teachings taught the same values.  All are equal, there is no difference between rich or poor, male or female, caste or creed in the eyes of God All are equal and all have same fundamental rights to exercise “he said.  He called upon the youth to participate fully in Nation Building and be a true Christian at the same time.  It’s a sin to evade the taxes so don’t indulge in evading taxes .

The Holy Eucharist Mass was held after the valedictory function.  Most. Rev. Valerian Gracious (Arch Bishop of Mumbai) concelebrated the mass with all the other bishops of the region. In his brief homily, he called upon the youth to bring change in the society.  He said “ be a Change first yourself and bring about changes in your house, your area.  Be the good leaders of the society and example and role models to other through your life, good conducts and service to humanity, the poor and downtrodden.”

The cultural and traditional dance performance by youth from North East enthralled the audience.  The lunch was provided for everyone who attended the gathering.  It was indeed a very well organized event, the peaceful march was very well organized and maintained throughout and very systematic. 

The 10^th ICYM National Youth Convention was held from 18^th January at the St. Joseph Engineering College campus in Vamanjoor attended by thousands of  ICYM (Indian Catholic Youth Moment) under the theme “  Touched by Jesus, Walking His Way” .  The NYC was organized by Youth Council of Bishop’s Conference of India and hosted by Karnataka Region and Mangaluru Diocese in association with Udupi, Belthangady and Puttur Diocese.