Fr Denis D’Sa

Udupi, May 26: In a heartening act of faith in action and social responsibility, the Udupi Diocese inaugurated a landmark initiative as part of its preparations for the General Jubilee Year 2025. Under this initiative aimed at addressing the housing needs of the underprivileged, a newly constructed home named ‘Ark of Hope’ was officially handed over to the family of Vinod and Angeline Pinto on Sunday at Thottam St Anne’s Church.

This compassionate project reflects the diocese’s deep commitment to the Gospel call to serve the marginalized and uphold human dignity. The Pinto family, long burdened by financial hardship and residing in rented accommodation, became the first beneficiaries of this Jubilee initiative. Their long-cherished dream of owning a home found fulfilment through the combined efforts of the parish community, entrepreneur and philanthropist Ronald Colaco, the Michael D’Souza Charity Trust, and numerous generous benefactors.

The construction of the fully furnished house, valued at approximately Rs 14 lac, was made possible through the remarkable spirit of collaboration and sacrifice. A pivotal contribution came from Thomas and Valeriana Noronha, who donated five cents of land, demonstrating a rare example of selfless generosity. The construction was efficiently completed within five months, a testament to the dedication of the project team, including engineer Errol, and the unwavering support of the parish council.

The handover ceremony was presided over by Fr Denis D’Sa, parish priest of Thottam Church, who blessed the new home and formally entrusted it to the Pinto family. Addressing the congregation, Fr D’Sa reflected on the profound significance of a home as a sanctuary of peace, dignity, and stability.

“A home is more than just bricks and mortar,” he said. “It is the foundation of family life, a cradle of dreams, and a shelter of hope. This house, the Ark of Hope, stands as a living testament to what can be achieved when faith is translated into action, and when hearts are moved by compassion.”

He further highlighted the importance of continuing such initiatives, reminding the faithful that many still languish in poverty, without the basic security of shelter. The symbolic handing over of the house was not merely a gift of shelter but a powerful gesture of the Church’s mission in practice — to uplift, restore, and renew.

The ceremony saw heartfelt expressions of gratitude directed towards all who contributed to the project. Special mention was made of the donors, including entrepreneur and philanthropist Ronald Colaco, the Michael D’Souza Charity Trust, and the many parishioners whose financial and moral support brought the project to completion. Honours were also extended to the Noronha couple for their land donation, and to engineer Errol for his diligent oversight of the construction process.

For the Pinto family, this house marks the beginning of a new chapter — one of hope, security, and renewed faith in the kindness of their community. Their gratitude was profound, their joy unmistakable, and their story a shining example of the transformative power of love and solidarity.

As the Udupi Diocese journeys toward the Jubilee Year 2025, the Ark of Hope initiative stands as a beacon — illuminating the path of mercy, justice, and shared humanity. It calls the faithful not only to celebrate the Jubilee with prayer and thanksgiving but also through tangible acts of love that echo the life and message of Christ.