Udupi: St Mary's College, Shirva pays rich tribute to Fr Henry Castelino
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)
Udupi, Jun 13: Managing committee of St Mary College Shirva in the district as well as principal and faculty of the institution had organized a programme to pay tribute to the late Fr Henry Castelino (80), who left for heavenly abode on June 11 in a private hospital at Mangalore. Fr Castelino had functioned as principal of St Mary College from 1981 to 1991.
Speaking on the occasion, senior lecturer of the college, Ronald Moras, termed Fr Castelino as an affectionate principal with extraordinary personality. “He always kept his word, and won over the hearts of the students through his unequivocal love for them. To help several poor families to see a brighter future, he used to part with them a share in his salary. His death has caused unmatched loss for the college, its staff, and the society in general,” he said.
Another lecturer, Dr Ganesh Bhat, recollected that Fr Henry Castelino always came forward on his own to help the needy in times of crisis. He hailed this quality of the late priest as a model for others to emulate. College principal, Prof Rajan V S, said that the college had faced hiccups initially. He said Fr Henry, a towering personality, gave created educational revolution in Shirva by ensuring that a full-fledged and majestic building is built for the college, by collecting donations from his old students and members of the public.
Fr Stany Tauro, convener of the college, presided. He said that Fr Henry Castelino, a gentle and simple soul, has permanently etched out a name for himself in the history of St Mary College by dedicating his rich experience in the field of education for the growth of this college. He added that the guidance and inspiration provided by Fr Henry should be imbibed by everyone as their ideals.
Managing committee members, Norbert Machado, Violet D Almeida, as well teaching and non-teaching staff of the college were present. Prof Gopalakrishna welcomed. Sridhar Hegde compered the programme.
Following requests from his well-wishers and students around the world, the final journey of Fr Henry Castelino will be webcast live on TvDaijiworld on Friday June 14 from 10 am.