Pics: Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (BG)

Mangalore, Oct 9: The centenary celebrations of Bejai Church will culminate with a grand programme, said parish priest of Bejai Church, Fr Victor Machado, addressing a press meet here on Tuesday October 9.

Bejai parish dedicated to St Francis Xavier is celebrating 100 years of its existence. The parish was formed in August 1912. The year-long centenary celebration which was inaugurated on August 7, 2011, will culminate on Sunday, October 14, he said.

The finale of the centenary will be preceded by a cultural evening on the October 12 and a procession of tableaux on culture and religion will be held on the October 13.

The grand closing ceremony will be held on October 14, presided over by Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop of Mangalore. Charles Lobo, post master general, Goa who hails from Bejai will be the chief guest.

The integral part of the celebration is the thanksgiving Holy Mass. Prominent people, who have rendered their services to Bejai, will be honored, including the past parish priests and the assistants and some lay leaders.

A musical play on St Francis Xavier will be staged by the artists of Bejai. A 100 member choir will sing during the Mass. The Silver Jubilee band of Harold D’Souza will perform.

"The parish pays due attention to the uplifting of the poor, the needy and the marginalized, helping them out in every way possible," Fr Machado said.

"Various associations like the Catholic Sabha, S V P, youth movements, Ladies Social Service League do their best to develop the economic and social conditions of the people," he added.

Assistant parish priest, Fr Anil Roshan Lobo, parish pastoral parishad vice president, Augustine Rodrigues and secretary, Charlotte Patrao were also present.

Also see - daijiworld exclusive :

Bejai Church: 100 Years - To Rejoice, Celebrate and Dedicate