Media Release

Davanagere, Oct 5: A new conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) was inaugurated at St Francis Xavier Church, Channagiri, diocese of Shimoga under the guidance of the SSVP Shivamogga Central Council, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga.

The inauguration was held on October 4 Holy Mass, which was celebrated by Fr George Vincent Lobo, parish priest of St Francis Xavier Church, Channagiri. Then in his introductory address, Fr George Vincent Lobo spoke about the spirituality and history of the Society of St Vincent de Paul. He explained that SSVP has been serving in the diocese of Shivamogga for the past 23 years under the guidance of the Thirthahalli parish. He appreciated the initiative of St Francis Xavier Church, Channagiri, in coming forward to establish an SSVP conference and encouraged the faithful to actively participate in its charitable mission.

William Martis, president of the SSVP Central Council, spoke about the mission and activities of SSVP, while Vincent Paul D’Mello, president of the Area Council, explained the functioning of an SSVP conference. William Martis also explained the membership requirements, responsibilities of members, and the procedure for conducting regular meetings.

Eleven members came forward to join the new conference and offered themselves for service. The members are Wilson Santhosh, Meena, Vinita G K, Sandeep, Anitha, Lourd Mary, Naveen, Antony Bernard, Padma, and Mangala Kumari.

Among the members, Br Wilson Santhosh was elected president of the new conference. He began the first meeting with a prayer and the reading of the Word of God. Fr George Vincent Lobo gave a reflection on the Word of God and blessed the gathering.

The office bearers were then appointed: Antony Bernard as vice president, Vinita G K as secretary, and Sandeep as treasurer.

The presidents of the Central and Area Councils provided further guidance on conducting SSVP meetings and carrying out the responsibilities of the conference. The Area Council president also explained the procedure for submitting reports. An amount of Rs 1,575 was collected as the secret collection.

Br Wilson Santhosh led the concluding prayer, while Sr Anitha proposed the vote of thanks.

The inauguration marked a significant step towards strengthening the spirit of Christian charity and service among the faithful of St Francis Xavier Church, Channagiri.