Pics by: Ajay Suvarna

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Dec 16: Sarvadharmaa samavesha and fellowship meal for the public was organized as part of the centenary year celebrations of St John the evangelist church Shankerpura on Thursday, December 15.

Fr Louis D’sa, director commission for interreligious dialogue diocese of Udupi presided over the programme.

Ashok Rao, founder member Sarvadharam Souharda Samithi addressing the gathering said, “Shankerpura church has a history of 100 years. Celebrating a centenary year is a difficult task. Priests served here in various terms have contributed to the development of the church. The educational institutions of the Shankerpura are known for their disciplined education. Shankerpura jasmine is known worldwide today. The Souharda Samithi is celebrating festivals of all the religions every year. This should continue further and all the people should support this cause. Even though we are divided by religions, we are united by blood. People from other places should take us as an example and organize such programs in their places also”.

A R Aboobakkur, founder member Sarvadharam Souharda Samithi speaking on the occasion said, “Today we are celebrating a centenary year of the Shankerpura church. Today it is a celebration time. This place is a holy place for me too. Even though the jasmine was brought from Bhatkal, it is famous as Shankerpura jasmine worldwide. The Souharda Samithi was founded by Fr Leslie D’souza seven years ago. We all had a question at that time as to why this committee is needed. But, as the years have passed we have realised the importance of this Samithi and its relevance”.

Fr Louis D’sa, director commission for interreligious dialogue diocese of Udupi in his presidential address said, “We stand for unity. We are the ambassadors of unity, peace. I should be the ambassador of unity. Never speak ill of others. Let us collect the good things from other religions. Integrate the values in your life. Values of peace, love and unity should be inculcated among us. Sacrifice is very important. When we transform it is possible to lead a happy life. Yun for social justice and fight for it. Other religions become meaningless if we don’t know how to live with humanity”.

Eucharistic celebration and adoration was held prior to the samavesha.

Agnes D’sa, president sarvadharma Samithi welcomed the gathering. Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, parish priest gave the introductory remarks and read the history of the church.

Fr Anil Francis Pinto, assistant parish priest Fr Vijay D’souza, assistant parish priest John Rodrigues, vice president parish pastoral committee Anitha R D’souza, secretary Seema Margaret D’souza, convener 20 commissions Naveen Amin, secretary Sarvadharma Souharda Samithi were present on the occasion.

Fellowship meal for the public was also organized as part of the celebrations Thousands of people from all the religions participated in the programme.