Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 27: The spirit of the festive season was in the air as United Christian Association marked Christmas with a unique all-religion celebration near Silver Gate, Kulshekar here on Saturday December 26. What made this celebration special was the fact that deserving achievers and needy of the society irrespective of religion were extended assistance in the form of two houses.
Fr J B Saldanha, parish priest of Permannur Church inaugurated the programme in the presence of Sri Esha Vittaladasa Swamiji of Kemar Math, president of Ullal Jumma Masjid U S Hamza, MLA J R Lobo and other dignitaries.
Kemar Swamiji handed over the keys of houses built by UCA for Harekala Hajabba, a fruit vendor who established a school from his savings. A new house built for Patricia, who had lost her house due to rains, was also handed over to her on the occasion. The house for Hajabba was built at a cost of Rs 15 lac, while that for Patricia was built at Rs 5.5 lac.
Addressing the gathering, Kemar Swamiji said, "UCA has celebrated Christmas in the true way by building a house for Harekala Hajabba, who has contributed immensely to the society in the field of education. His selfless service will always be remembered. Everyone should take a cue from Hajabba and work for the development of society."
Fr J B Saldanha called upon the people to help those in need. "Look for the needy and destitutes in your neighbourhood and extend a helping hand to them. Sharing our joys with them and helping them will give them hope and light up their future. The amount of wealth we accumulate is not important, what is important is how much we have given or done for those in need. I congratulate UCA on their commendable gesture."
MLA J R Lobo also commended UCA for its inititative in helping the less fortunate and said that it portrayed true spirit of Christmas.
Hajabba and Patricia expressed their gratitudes to UCA for its generosity.
Powerlifter Vincent Carlo, who has won medals in international championships, was honoured on the occasion. The website of United Christian Association was formally launched.
UCA vice-president Francis D'Costa welcomed the gathering while president of UCA-Siddakatte proposed the vot of thanks. UCA Alban Menezes thanked the donors who contributed towards building the two houses.
UCA secretary Melwin D’Souza compered the event.
A grand procession through the city streets showcasing the beauty of Christmas was another highlight of the celebration.
Corporator Bhaskar and others were present.