Pics: John Tauro
Mangaluru, Dec 11: The Konkan Overseas Returnees’ Welfare Association (KORWA) organized their annual event, ‘Christmas celebrations 2016’ at the Loyola Hall here on Saturday, December 10 and shared joy with less privileged.
Keeping the tradition of last 6 years alive, this year too KORWA had lots of entertainment – songs, music, dance, fun and games followed by dinner.
The programme began with prayer and welcome dance by children. The president of KORWA Louis Lobo welcomed the gathering. The programme was inaugurated by the MLA of Mangaluru South Constituency J R Lobo by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries on the dais.
Addressing the gathering Lobo said, “I am very happy to be part of this event. All the children here look like red stars. Jesus was born like a star, 2000 years back. Jesus was born in a manger and died on the Cross living his life for others. I am very proud that KORWA is following the teachings of Jesus. They are celebrating Christmas in a very meaningful way. Jesus served the people and died for the people, throughout his life. Jesus always served the downtrodden. His life was for others. Christmas is not joyful dinner, Christmas is not dancing Merry, but it is loving and serving others. We should be the messengers to propagate peace.”
“Christmas is to love one another. It is not wearing skimpy clothes and enjoying. We need to help the needy. KORWA has celebrated Christmas in a meaningful way and brought smiles on the faces of children who are deprived of such a life. Whoever has received help from the KORWA should follow in their footsteps and help others who are in need.”
Corrine Rasquinha, Brigadier I N Rai, Wing Commander Devaraj Belle and Commander J P Mascarenhas were felicitated by KORWA for their exemplary service to the society and country.
Children, as well as elders, enjoyed the Christmas Celebrations with Christmas carols, songs, dance etc from the children of various institutions and mimicry by Sharan Kaikamba.
Children were seen eagerly waiting for Santa’s arrival. Finally, the Santa arrived with his team with lots of goodies for the children. All the children were given sweets and gifts once again making the KORWA Christmas celebrations a memorable one.
Vaibhav D’Souza and Sharon Serrao compered the programme. Parish Priest of Bendur Church Fr Antony Serrao, Fr Santhosh Kamath of Fatima Retreat House, Rohan Monteiro, KORWA vice president Elias Sanctis, David D’Souza were present among others.