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ICYM Barkur at the Threshold of the Golden Jubilee (1976–2026)

As ICYM Barkur stands at the threshold of celebrating its Golden Jubilee Year in 2026, it is both a proud privilege and a moment of deep gratitude for many of us to recall the rich storehouse of nostalgic memories associated with its birth and early growth.

St Peter’s Church, Barkur, has been the cradle of many great social and faith-based organisations, and CYM Barkur proudly stands as one of its finest contributions. The seeds of CYM Barkur were sown during the tenure of Rev Fr Joseph D’Souza, an elderly and respected priest who served as the Vicar of the parish. Assisting him was Rev Fr Henry D’Souza, a dynamic and visionary priest, who inspired the youth, convinced their parents, and won the wholehearted support of the Vicar to lay a strong and lasting foundation for CYM Barkur.

Thus, on 10th September 1976, CYM Barkur was formally established. In its initial phase, the organization functioned through two wings: the Men’s Wing, led by late Arun Augustine Dias, and the Ladies’ Wing, led by Ms Shanthi Sequeira. (Now nun sister in Sisters of Charity)

The First Meetings and Early Faces:
It is a proud privilege for many of us to recall those early days with affection and gratitude. The very first meeting of CYM Barkur was held in the side wings of the Church, close to the belfry. Late Arun Dias and Jerald Buthello, accompanied by Fr Henry D’Souza, were present and actively involved in these formative gatherings.

Several young and enthusiastic faces were regularly seen during those days, including Peter Fernandes, Louis D’Costa, Ronald D’Almeida, Joseph D’Souza, Patrick Furtado, Sylvan D’Almeida, Mark Gonsalves, Hensul Furtado, James and John Gonsalves late Lawrence Sequeira, Alwyn D’Souza, and many others who formed the backbone of the early CYM Barkur.

Those of us who were in SSLC 1976–77 were also specially invited by Fr Henry D’Souza. My classmates—Ivan Rebello, Alwyn Picardo, Romeo Fernandes, Joseph Fernandes, Richard Barnes, and Peter D’Souza—were present, mostly as silent observers, watching with curiosity and admiration the birth of a vibrant youth movement. Though I was a seasonal member for the next 2 years, was forcefully involved by Rev Fr Patrick Rodrigues as Director during next 3 years during my College years.

Innovative Programmes and Pioneering Projects:
The first two years of CYM Barkur were marked by a remarkable spirit of innovation and commitment. Many new and path-breaking programmes were initiated, and several meaningful projects were executed with dedication and teamwork. Noteworthy among them were:

The Open Stage, which encouraged young talent and confidence
Construction of houses for the needy and poor through CODP, reflecting a deep social concern,

Co-acting and staging of various plays, including the memorable “Josa’s Chedo yek Chedvan Sadesath”, among several others.

Strong Support from the Ladies’ Wing
The Ladies’ Wing of CYM Barkur was exceptionally supportive and actively involved in all activities. Under the caring guidance of Sr. Lucretia and the able leadership of President Ms Shanthi Sequeira, dozens of young women participated enthusiastically, strengthening the organisation and contributing meaningfully to its mission.

Torch Bearers in Every Field

From its very inception, CYM Barkur emerged as a true torch bearer in every sphere of parish and community life. Whether in the liturgical, social, educational, sports, or cultural fields, the CYM set high standards of involvement, leadership, and service—standards that continue to inspire generations even as the organisation prepares to celebrate its Golden Jubilee.

As we look back with gratitude and move forward with hope, we remember with respect all those visible and silent contributors whose faith, sacrifice, and vision shaped CYM Barkur into the vibrant organisation it is today.

It’s truly a divine providence, our Founder Director now Bishop of Bellary Diocese His Excellency Rt Rev Dr Henry DSouza will release the Jubilee Emblem and symbolic inauguration of the Golden Jubilee Year today.

About 20 Vicars and Directors and close 400 Members served here at different times and all deserve appreciation and to remember them a small book is ready for release in this Jubilee Year, (in addition to an attractive Souvenir 1976-2026), will give a glimpse of their contribution along with a brief tribute to about 25 Members who left us during our 50 years journey.

The present team of ICYM with its Director and Animator and others past members are gearing up to plan a yearlong celebration and the Grand Finale slated in December 2026.
P. Archibald Furtado