Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jan 1: Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh (R) celebrated Christmas with Christian government officers on December 30.

Bishop Fr Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, who presided over the programme, inaugurated the event by cutting a cake.

Fr Wilson Fernandes, director, regional forum West Bengal and Sikkim was the chief guest.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr Wilson said, "All feel proud when we meet someone outside Udupi belonging from our native. By working in government departments, we can set examples like Jesus Christ. Together, we should make Udupi diocese a strong one.”

Another chief guest, Walter Cyril Pinto, president, All India Christian Union State addressing the gathering said, “From the last two years, Catholic Sabha has been working hard to organize this programme. Aspirants of civil service exams are also trained by Catholic Sabha. Government servants have an opportunity to do social service through their work.”

Bishop Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, in his address said, “From many years, Catholic Sabha has been doing an excellent job in the diocese. It has organized get-together for nurses, businessmen, and lawyers of our diocese. Through this, we are all united. Udupi diocese may not be rich in economical resources, but we are rich in human resources. As per our plan, by the next five years, 25 members will be join civil service.”

Government employees and officers participated in the celebrations. It was announced that very soon, another get-together of government officials will be held. There are more than 60 government employees in Udupi diocese.

Cake, Kuswar and dinner were arranged for the invitees.

Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, spiritual director of Catholic Sabha, Udupi Pradesh (R), Valerian Fernandes, president, Jacintha Colaco, secretary, and Maxim D’Souza were present during the event.