News by Janif Reema D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network—Kundapur (RD/CN)
 
Kundapur, Aug 10: ‘Kraista Okkuta’, the taluk unit of the International Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations organized their first annual day celebration and scholarship distribution programme at Kala Mandir on Sunday August 7.
 
Mangalore-based Karnataka Theological College principal Dr Hannibal Cabral inaugurated the programme.
 
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Hannibal said, “When Christians are attacked or accused unjustly, all should join together to condemn it and fight for justice. We have to be aware of the minority rights and all the Christian denominations unitedly work to obtain our rights.”
 

Charles Quadros of Moodubelle briefed on the state benefits for minority communities.  He urged the community to avail the benefits.
 
Denis D’Silva, state co-ordinator of the Federation, highlighted the works of the Federation from the grassroots-level up to state and national level. He also advised that a community hall for the Okkuta be built in the city.
 
On this occasion, the Okkuta awarded scholarships to 40 meritorious students of all denominations in the taluk to the tune of Rs 45,000.
 
The Okkuta also honoured Valerian Menezes of Kota, for his leadership in the society and priceless service to the Christian community in the taluk.
 
At the beginning of the programme, a group of youngsters from CSI Krupa Church conducted a prayer service.
 
Fr Alban D'Souza, Fr Walter Mendonca, Fr Elias D'Souza, Fr Philip, Fr John Wasley, Fr Nellivila, and deacon Yesudas were present.
 
Christians from five denominations joined in the celebration along with their pastors. The programme concluded with a fellowship meal.
 
Johnson D’Almeida, president of the Okkuta, welcomed the gathering.  Alwyn Quadros of Kota, the secretary, proposed the vote of thanks. Melwyn and Reema D’Souza compered the programme.