The Indian Catholic Youth Movement, Kajubag Deanery, organised the “Shepherds & Saplings” programme on August 9, 2026 at Sandhya Vandan, Shirwad, with the theme “Honouring Our Shepherds, Nurturing God’s Creation.” Inspired by the words of Leviticus 19:32, “Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly,” the programme aimed to honour elderly priests, foster meaningful fellowship between priests and youth, and promote care for God’s creation.

A total of 34 participants, including elderly priests, Youth Coordinator Rev. Fr. Ravi Horta, deanery office bearers and youth from across the deanery, took part in the gathering. The programme provided an opportunity for the youth to express their gratitude and appreciation for the elderly priests and to benefit from their presence, wisdom and guidance.

The programme began with prayer together with the elderly priests, seeking God’s blessings and expressing gratitude for their dedicated service to the Church. Sharon Alphonso, Cultural Secretary, hosted the programme, warmly welcoming the gathering and guiding the proceedings.

Jessica Fernandes, President of ICYM Kajubag Deanery, delivered the opening address. She highlighted the importance of respecting and honouring elderly priests and encouraged the youth to value their presence, guidance and contribution to the life and mission of the Church.

The youth then engaged the priests in a variety of fun games, creating a cheerful atmosphere filled with laughter, interaction and fellowship. The activities provided an opportunity for the youth and priests to interact freely and share joyful moments together.

As a special gesture of appreciation, the Sunkeri youth presented a song dedicated to the priests, expressing their love and gratitude for their guidance and service. This was followed by a short drama presented by the Sadhashivgad youth, which added further joy and entertainment to the gathering.

The first part of the programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Chrisell Miranda, General Secretary, who expressed gratitude to the elderly priests, Youth Coordinator Fr. Ravi Horta, deanery office bearers, youth and all those who contributed to making the programme meaningful and memorable.

The programme continued with activities specially organised for the youth. A fellowship meal provided an opportunity for everyone to share a meal and strengthen their bonds of friendship. After lunch, the youth enthusiastically participated in an action dance, followed by a variety of games. The activities brought energy and excitement to the gathering while strengthening friendship, unity and team spirit among the youth.

The programme concluded with a gardening and sapling-planting activity. The youth came together to plant saplings as a visible expression of their commitment to nurturing God’s creation and caring for the environment. The activity beautifully brought the theme of the programme to life, connecting the appreciation of the Church’s shepherds with the responsibility of the younger generation to care for God’s creation.

The “Shepherds & Saplings” programme was a meaningful blend of gratitude, intergenerational fellowship, joy and environmental responsibility, leaving the participants with a renewed appreciation for their shepherds and a deeper commitment to caring for God’s creation.