At our parish in Udupi, we are committed to nurturing the faith and leadership potential of our youth. Two vital organizations that play a significant role in achieving this goal are the Young Christians Students (YCS) and the Young Student's Movement (YSM). These dynamic groups provide platforms for young people to grow spiritually, develop leadership skills, and actively engage in their faith and community.

Young Christians Students (YCS):
The Young Christians Students (YCS) is a global movement that originated in France in the early 20th century. It is founded on the principles of faith, service, and solidarity among young people. At our parish, the YCS serves as a vibrant community where young Christians can come together to deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith in practical ways. Through prayer, reflection, and action, YCS members are encouraged to be agents of positive change in their schools, families, and society.

Young Student's Movement (YSM):
The Young Student's Movement (YSM) is another dynamic organization that empowers young people to live out their Christian faith in today's world. Originating from the Christian Student Movement (CSM) in the early 20th century, YSM provides a space for young students to explore and deepen their spirituality, engage in social justice issues, and build relationships based on shared values. At our parish, YSM members are actively involved in various initiatives, including community service projects, advocacy campaigns, and spiritual retreats.

Activities and Initiatives:
Both the YCS and YSM at our parish organize a wide range of activities and initiatives aimed at fostering spiritual growth, leadership development, and social engagement among young people. These include:
• Prayer meetings, Bible studies, and reflection sessions to deepen spiritual life.
• Service projects such as volunteering at local charities, organizing outreach programs for the needy, and participating in environmental initiatives.
• Leadership training workshops and seminars to equip young people with the skills and confidence to take on leadership roles in the Church and society.
• Awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts on issues such as social justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
• Retreats, camps, and pilgrimages to provide opportunities for spiritual renewal, fellowship, and personal growth.

In our parish the members of YCS and YSM come together in small groups called CELLS to share their experiences, problems, joys, and anxieties based on a given situation to find a solution of their own in the methodology of "See (awareness), Judge (reflection), and Act (action)." Each cell consists of 8-12 members who sit together for 45-60 minutes.
Since the formation of the Udupi house, the YCS Udupi unit has experienced an increase in participation and activities, with every Parish Priest giving their support, encouragement, cooperation, and guidance. At present, there are 42 active members carrying out activities, attending seminars, participating in competitions/programs, etc. YCS also works on coordination with ICYM to help in church activities.
Currently, Shaun Fernandes and Jeshal Mathias are serving as president and secretary respectively, under the guidance of two animators, Mrs. Reshma Mathew and Mrs. Maria Periera in our Parish.

Conclusion:
The Young Christians Students (YCS) and Young Student's Movement (YSM) are integral parts of our parish community, offering young people opportunities to grow spiritually, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact in the world. Through their commitment to faith, service, and solidarity, members of YCS and YSM embody the spirit of Christian discipleship and inspire others to do the same.