A half-day formation programme for the Young Catholic Students (YCS) was successfully held at Our Lady of Piety Church, Halga, on 12 July 2026, marking the establishment of a new YCS unit in the parish. The programme brought together 19 students from Class VIII to PUC who enthusiastically participated in the sessions.

The programme began with a prayer service led by Rev. Fr. Ignatius D’Souza, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Piety Church, Halga. Welcoming the participants, he encouraged the students to deepen their faith and become active members of the Church through the YCS movement.

The main formation session was conducted by Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, Youth Director for ICYM and YCS of the Diocese of Karwar. He introduced the students to the vision, mission, and objectives of YCS, highlighting its role in nurturing responsible Christian leadership among young people.

The interactive session included group discussions, activities, and opportunities for participants to share their thoughts and experiences. Special emphasis was given to the YCS methodology of “See, Judge, and Act”, enabling the students to understand how to observe the realities around them, reflect on them in the light of the Gospel, and respond through meaningful action.

The participants were also introduced to the concept of cell meetings, where students regularly gather for prayer, reflection, discussion, and community-orientated activities. The session inspired the young participants to actively contribute to the life of the Church and society through faith-filled leadership and service.

The programme concluded with the recitation of the Angelus, thanking God for the fruitful gathering and invoking His blessings upon the newly formed YCS unit. The formation programme marked an important milestone in strengthening youth ministry in the parish by fostering faith formation, leadership, and social responsibility among the young students.