Green Mission 2025–26: A Journey of Growth, Responsibility and Hope
ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate

“Small Actions Today, A Greener Tomorrow for All.”

In an inspiring step towards environmental stewardship and sustainable living, ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate launched Green Mission 2025–26 under the theme “Let’s Grow Together”. More than just a plantation drive, the initiative was envisioned as a year-long commitment to nurturing God’s creation, encouraging every ICYM unit to take responsibility for a living sapling and care for it throughout the year.

The Green Mission was officially inaugurated during the First Council Meeting of ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate 2025–26, held on 13th July 2025 at St. Monica School Hall, Kumbla. Following the council proceedings, the youth gathered outdoors for the launch of this meaningful environmental initiative. Rev. Fr. Suraj Lobo addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of preserving nature and cultivating ecological responsibility among young people. Saplings were then distributed to all participating units through a lot-picking system, marking the beginning of a shared mission of care, growth, and sustainability.

To ensure accountability and active participation, every unit was instructed to plant the allotted sapling within their parish premises and submit periodic photographic updates through a structured monthly reporting system. Units were required to provide timestamped photographs showing both the plant and its surroundings, allowing the Vicariate to monitor growth and maintenance throughout the year. The initiative also became a part of the Cup Prashasthi evaluation system, encouraging healthy participation among the units.

The response from the units was truly commendable. Throughout the year, regular updates were received from several units including Vorkady, Miyapadavu, Manjeshwar, Kayyar, Ukkinadka, Maniyampare, Kasaragod, Bovikana, Mariashram, Narampady, Bela, Kollangana, and Lawrence Nagar–Permude. Month after month, these units demonstrated dedication by nurturing their saplings and sharing their growth journey through photographs and reports. What began as a small sapling in July gradually transformed into a visible symbol of commitment, perseverance, and environmental consciousness.

The initiative not only encouraged plantation but also instilled a culture of long-term care. Unlike many one-day plantation programs, Green Mission focused on sustaining life rather than merely planting trees. The monthly follow-up mechanism ensured that the mission remained active throughout the year and motivated participants to continuously engage with environmental protection.

As the mission approached its culmination, the Vicariate evaluated the consistency, growth, and maintenance demonstrated by the participating units. During the Rewind & Relaunch Programme, the efforts of the most dedicated units were recognized and celebrated through the presentation of the Laudato Si Green Champion Awards. The awards were conferred upon:

• ICYM Vorkady
• ICYM Maniyampare
• ICYM Miyapadavu
• ICYM Ukkinadka
• CKYM Kayyar

These units stood out for their remarkable commitment to nurturing the entrusted saplings and keeping the mission alive throughout the year. Their dedication reflected the spirit of Pope Francis‘ call in Laudato Si’ to care for our common home.

The success of Green Mission 2025–26 is not measured merely by the number of plants distributed but by the awareness created, the responsibility cultivated, and the environmental values instilled among the youth. The initiative successfully united young people in a common cause, transforming a simple sapling into a powerful symbol of faith, service, and sustainability.

Building upon this success, ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate has decided to continue the Green Mission in 2026–27. The upcoming phase will focus on both supporting and monitoring the existing growing plants while simultaneously introducing new saplings to additional units, thereby expanding the mission’s impact. This continuation reflects the Vicariate’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and its belief that meaningful change begins with consistent, collective action.

As Green Mission enters a new chapter, ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate remains committed to nurturing not only plants but also a generation of environmentally conscious young leaders who will continue to care for God’s creation with love, responsibility, and hope.

“Let’s Grow Together — nurturing nature, inspiring responsibility, and building a greener tomorrow.”