Who We Are

About Us

Learn more about ICYM Shirva Deanery and our mission to empower Catholic youth

Our Mission

To empower Catholic youth with strong faith, leadership skills, and a spirit of service, enabling them to be active participants in the Church and society.

Our Vision

A community of vibrant, faith-filled youth who are transformative leaders, serving the Church and society with love, compassion, and excellence.

About ICYM Shirva Deanery

The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) is India's official Latin-rite Catholic youth wing under the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CBCI). It was founded in 1999 (approved by the CBCI). ICYM's motto is "To lead, To serve, To shine" and it aims to empower youth for Church and nation-building. It operates in 14 regions and over 132 dioceses across about 700 districts. ICYM is governed by a National Executive (NEXCO) under the CBCI, chaired by Most Rev. Henry D'Souza (joint-chair: Mar Joseph Arumachadath). Its patron is St. Gonsalo Garcia. No major controversies are noted.

At the Deanery level in Shirva (Udupi Diocese), ICYM covers multiple parishes including Shirva, Belman, Kelmbet, Pamboor, Mudarangadi, Pangla, Kalathur, and more. The Shirva Deanery unit runs local youth programs, training, and outreach. Recent initiatives (2021-2026) include public-speaking and MC workshops (Mar 2025), a Lenten Way of the Cross outreach (Mar 2026), and the short-film competition entry "Sopann Tuje Mujhe" by Shirva youth (Sept 2025). Key leaders include Fr. Arnold Mathias (Deanery Director, till 2026) and elected youth office-bearers such as President Ms. Josita Mendonca (2025) and President Mr. Delson Furtado (2026).

ICYM National

  • Approved by CBCI on 14 Sep 1999
  • Motto: "To lead, To serve, To shine"
  • 14 regional zones, 132+ dioceses, 700+ districts
  • NEXCO under CBCI (Chair: Most Rev. Henry D'Souza)
  • Patron: St. Gonsalo Garcia

ICYM Shirva Deanery

  • Parishes: Shirva, Belman, Kelmbet, Pamboor, Mudarangadi, Pangla, Kalathur
  • Local youth programs, training, and outreach
  • Annual youth meets, workshops, and cultural initiatives
  • Contact: Our Lady of Health Church, Shirva (574116)
  • Tel: +91-9141031657, Email: [email protected]
OverviewICYM NationalICYM Shirva Deanery
Scale14 regions, 132+ dioceses, 700+ districtsMultiple parishes in Shirva Deanery
GovernanceNEXCO under CBCIDeanery director and elected youth DEXCO
ActivitiesNational youth conclaves, leadership training, WYDWorkshops, outreach, cultural programs
PatronSt. Gonsalo GarciaLocal patronal celebrations at parish level

Outreach Email Template

Subject: ICYM Shirva Deanery - Youth Outreach Collaboration
Dear ICYM Shirva Deanery Team,
Greetings in Christ. We are interested in collaborating on youth initiatives and would appreciate details about upcoming programs and how we can participate or support. Kindly guide us on the next steps.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Organization / Parish]
[Contact Number]

Figure: Engaged Catholic youth (source: Unsplash)

Our Core Values

Faith

Deepening our relationship with Christ through prayer, sacraments, and spiritual formation

Fellowship

Building strong bonds of friendship and community among youth

Service

Reaching out to those in need with compassion and generosity

Leadership

Developing responsible leaders who can make a positive difference

Excellence

Striving for the highest standards in all our endeavors

What We Do

ICYM Shirva Deanery organizes activities that build faith, leadership, and service. Highlights from 2021 to 2026 include:

MC and public-speaking training (Mar 2025)
Yuva Samagam youth conventions (e.g., June 2024)
Short-film competition entry (Sept 2025)
Way of the Cross Lenten outreach (Mar 2026)
Community service and parish outreach programs
Leadership formation for unit and deanery teams
Cultural and sports events across parishes
Social media updates and youth engagement drives

Get Involved

Whether you're looking to deepen your faith, develop new skills, make lasting friendships, or serve your community, ICYM Shirva Deanery welcomes you! Join us in our mission to be young ambassadors of Christ's love in today's world.