Media Release

Mangaluru, Jan 30: The annual parish feast was celebrated at Infant Mary Church, Bajjodi with great pomp and fervor on January 28.

Felicitation to the sponsors and procession began at 9.30am. A solemn Eucharistic celebration was held at 10 am. Parish priest Fr Shabas Crasta distributed candles to the benefactors and sponsors of the feast. Fr Peter Noronha was the main celebrant. As many as 14 priests took part in the Eucharistic celebrations. Fr Peter Noronha preached a sermon on the theme ‘Mary the courageous woman’.

The cultural programme began with a prayer dance by youth followed by stage programme. Vice-president Joseph Mascarenhas extended official welcome to all the dignitaries followed by secretary Irene Pinto reading the parish annual report of various events and activities.

Chief guest Fr Pius James D’Souza, Episcopal Vicar, in his message said that all need to have belongingness that this is our parish. Fr Wilfred Rodrigues, superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, corporator, Meena Pinto, and cultural committee coordinator were present on the stage. Winners of various competitions were awarded on the occasion. Parish priest Fr Shabas Crasta in his message said that we need to give priority to spiritual activities. He also thanked the parishioners for their constant support.

The cultural extravaganza began with a dance by small children. Fr Ivan D’Souza presented a audio visual presentation of the parish activities. A thought-provoking and comedy skit ‘Uprantach kalchem’ written and directed by Nellu Permannur was presented by the parishioners. Children, youth and elders with dance, skit, and orchestra enthralled the large gathering of parishioners and others for over two hours. The evening programme was compered by Molly Concesso, Meldina and Kreetan. Fr Ivan D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks. The programme ended with a Baila with Konkani and Hindi music played by youth.