Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 22: A day when the staff of CODP and ISD set aside their office and field work and came together to celebrate Christmas – the birth of Christ Child Jesus.
A day’s programme was organized in Mother Theresa hall, CODP-ISD on December 22. The participants were led into prayer by Dorice and group.
Patricia Rodrigues, the compere of the day then welcomed the chief guest, Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes, director of Canara Communications Centre, Fr Vincent DSouza, director of CODP-ISD, donors and well-wishers, neighbours, friends, and colleagues. She then gave a brief introduction on Christmas.
Fr Vincent D Souza, director of CODP welcomed the chief guest, donors, well-wishers, sisters of Bethany and Brigitine convents and other participants. In his speech he said that Christmas is a festival of peace, forgiveness and sharing our happiness with each other and spreading love among our friends, relatives and neighborhood. He then wished all the participants a very merry Christmas and happy New Year 2023.
Fr Anil, wished all the participants a Happy Christmas and Happy New Year 2023. He said, “Jesus is a born Hero. He is divine and human in heart." He also said that Jesus suffered on the Cross to save humanity from sin. He mentioned that just as Jesus, we should also work in the society for peace and unity.
In acknowledgement of the service by the staff, a small token of appreciation was presented to the achievers of 2022.
After this, Christmas carols were sung by CODP staff. This was followed by a short comedy skit on 'Family' presented by Cyril and group from Paldane parish. The vote of thanks was given by Peter Paul D'Souza, coordinator CODP. There were 69 members in all. The programme came to an end with a sumptuous lunch.