Shivamogga, April 11, 2025: ICYM Sacred Heart Cathedral Spreads Love at Nova Charitable Old Age Home. As part of their Lenten initiatives and commitment to serving the less fortunate, the ICYM members of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga organized a meaningful visit to Nova Charitable Old Age Home near Sominkoppa, Shivamogga on March 31, 2025 with blessings of Parish Priest Rev. Fr Stany D'Souza. The visit aimed to bring comfort, joy and companionship to the residents while also providing them with essential daily-use items.
Upon arrival, the youth were met with warm smiles and heartfelt greetings from the elderly residents. To begin the visit on a spiritual note, ICUM Parish Director, Fr. Paul Anand led a short prayer, inviting everyone present to join in seeking divine blessings for the well-being of the residents. The collective prayer fostered a sense of unity and love, setting the tone for a day filled with meaningful interactions.
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During the visit, Mr. Gnanaprakash, the caretaker of the residence, shared his inspiring journey of establishing the Nova Charitable Old Age Home in 2012. His vision was to provide a safe and loving environment for elderly individuals, particularly those facing mental distress and abandonment. Today, the home shelters around 27 residents, each with unique backgrounds and varying health conditions. His story was a testament to the power of compassion and selfless service, inspiring the youth to contribute towards the well-being of those in need.
The visit was filled with engaging activities that brought smiles to the residents' faces. The ICYM members performed songs, danced with enthusiasm, and played interactive games, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere. The joy shared between the youth and the elderly was truly heartwarming, reminding everyone of the simple yet profound impact of companionship and kindness.
In the end the group gathered for a special prayer session led by Fr. Paul and Sr. Carmelita, offering prayers for the health, happiness, and peace of all residents. This moment of reflection reinforced the importance of faith and the role it plays in providing strength and comfort.
Before concluding their visit, the youth expressed their sincere appreciation to Very Rev. Msgr. Stany D'Souza, the Parish Priest, Fr. Paul, the Parish ICYM Director Sr. Carmelita, and Mr. Nelson, the animator, for their unwavering support and guidance in making this initiative possible.
This experience served as a profound reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and service to humanity. As the youth listened to the life stories of the residents, they gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the elderly, particularly those without family support. The visit was an eye-opening experience, highlighting the significance of caring for our elders and using our lives responsibly for the well-being of society.
In the spirit of Lent, this initiative was not just an act of giving but a reaffirmation of faith, love, and the values that bind communities together. The ICYM members left with hearts full of gratitude and a renewed commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need.
