Media Release

Mangaluru, Jul 8: ICYM Bajal unit celebrated Environment Day (Laudato-Si) on Sunday July 7 at God the Holy Spirit Church premises, Bajal.

After the holy mass a stage programme was arranged. Fr Andrew D'Souza, parish priest, Henry D'Souza, vice president parish council, Maurice D'Souza, secretary parish council, Elton Pinto, president, ICYM Bajal unit were on the dais.

Fr Andrew D'Souza emphasised the need for protecting the environment. At present, because of various development works and greed of the people, deforestation is taking place. The environment is the surrounding in which we live. It is the source of life. Our whole life is dependent on the environment. It directs our life and determines our proper growth and development. Trees give us life and are very important for survival on earth. Pope Francis called upon each individual for an inclusive dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. Pope Francis calls the church and the world to acknowledge the urgency of our environmental challenges and to join him in embarking on a new path.

About 500 saplings were distributed to all the parishioners as a mark to plant and nourish it regularly which were provided by the diocese of Mangaluru under 'Laudato –Si Campaign'. About 200 saplings including various fruit plants were planted in the premises of the church and responsibility to nourish the planted saplings has been handed over to various associations of the parish.

Elton Pinto welcomed the gathering. Fr Andrew D'Souza, Henry D'Souza, Maurice D'Souza, Elton Pinto, Tania Mascarenhas, secretary ICYM Bajal, ICYM members, all the association presidents and all the parishioners were present at the programme.