Media Release

Udupi, June 23: The vibrant spirit of service, faith, and leadership came alive at Mount Rosary Church as the Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh in collaboration with the Parish Laity Commission celebrated Laity Day 2025 with great reverence and enthusiasm on Sunday, June 22.

A solemn holy Mass  with the faithful gathering in large numbers was celebrated. A special portrait of St Thomas More, the patron of the Laity, was reverently displayed. Fr Rohan Mascarenhas, assistant parish priest, was the main celebrant, setting a deeply spiritual tone for the celebrations.

 

The formal programme opened with a soulful Konkani hymn, “Poilen Tuka Harsitelyan Dhaniya”, sung by the talented Choir led by Jovita Fernandes.

A graceful welcome dance by Chaya captivated the audience, followed by a warm welcome address by Archibald Furtado, president of the Catholic Sabha and convenor of the Laity Commission. He emphasised the significance of Laity Day, highlighting the Laity’s pivotal role in the Church’s mission, while also sharing a brief reflection on the past achievements and future aspirations.

The symbolic inauguration ceremony featured the dignitaries, led by Fr Rohan Mascarenhas, pouring water onto a plant—an inspiring gesture representing growth, care, and shared responsibility. Fr Rohan, in his keynote address, eloquently highlighted the indispensable role of laypeople in the Church’s structure and praised the Catholic Sabha for its dynamic and visionary leadership.

In a heartening segment, around 60 entrepreneurs of the parish were recognised. Their commendable contributions were introduced by Prof Royston Quadrous, who acknowledged the challenge of gathering information from all due to time constraints and the humility of many honorees. Their work in generating employment and promoting dignity of labour was rightfully praised as service to the Church and nation.

The event’s chief guest, Walter Nandalike, founder and managing director of Daijiworld Media Pvt. Ltd., was introduced by  Elias D’Souza, former president of the Catholic Sabha. Walter Nandalike was felicitated with a shawl, bouquet, and memento.

In his stirring address, Walter Nandalike touched upon vital societal concerns, the power and responsibility of media, and the importance of committed laity and social consciousness. His appeal to youth to pursue careers within India was particularly well received.

Speaking on behalf of all the honourees, Baptist Dias, president of Lions Club Kallianpur and former PPC vice president, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful recognition and support extended to the achievers.

A proud moment unfolded as around 20 meritorious students from Class 10 and 12, along with catechism exam toppers, were felicitated with certificates and cash awards by the dignitaries. Their names were joyfully announced by Rosy Quadros, former president, and greeted with thunderous applause.

Adding to the celebration, seven outstanding individuals were honoured for achievements in diverse fields: Dr Clara Menezes (MCom., Ph.D.) – Academics; Ancy Martis (CPA, Canada) – Finance; Dr Mellisa Judith Lewis & Dr. Sharral R. Tauro – Medicine; Brinelle Menezes – Arts & Culture; Dallon Aleron Lewis & Mark Anthony – Sports (National, State & University Level).

Margaret D’Souza, secretary of Catholic Sabha, introduced the achievers, who were felicitated with shawls, bouquets, and mementos. Dr Roque D’Souza, parish priest and spiritual director of Catholic Sabha, delivered an inspiring felicitation address, congratulating them and encouraging continued excellence.

In recognition of selfless service and leadership, few of the parish leaders were felicitated Luke D’Souza – vice president, Parish Pastoral Council; Priya Furtado – parish secretary;  Daisy Mendonca – convenor, 20 Commissions, Panchayat representatives Baptist Dias, Meena Pinto, Benedicta Menezes;  ward Gurkars and presidents of pious associations were also recognised with roses, mementos, and shawls. Luke D’Souza commended the Catholic Sabha’s consistent contributions to parish life

A deeply emotional moment arrived as 21 past presidents of the Catholic Sabha over the last 37 years were honoured, with prayers offered for those no longer with Catholic Sabha. Wilma Rego, treasurer, acknowledged all generous donors and well-wishers for their unwavering support.

A proud son of the parish, Santosh Cornelio, who served two consecutive terms as Udupi diocesan president, was honoured with a Kashmiri shawl, bouquet, and memento. Introduced by Dancy Machado, Santhosh Cornelio called for committed and courageous laity leadership in his inspirational speech.

Rosy Quadros, president, CS Kallianpur Varado, and Elias D’Souza, former president and event mastermind, were duly appreciated for their leadership and tireless efforts.

Margaret D’Souza, secretary, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging every contributor to the success of the grand celebration.

The event was smoothly and elegantly compeered by Pramilla D’Souza, joint secretary, whose warm narration and perfect coordination made the event a resounding success.

The celebration concluded with vibrant performances by the ICYM youth, St. Philip Neri Ward elders, and Choir members, featuring songs, dances, and fusion acts. A lively Baila session added joy to the celebration.

A sumptuous lunch, generously sponsored by Santosh Cornelio and family, brought the celebration to a happy and memorable close. Over 200 attendees left with fond memories of a day well spent in fellowship and community spirit.