Media Release

Udupi, Feb 21: Inauguration and blessing ceremony of newly renovated house of Richard Monteiro Bennekudru was held on Sunday, February 19. The project was sponsored by the Global Barkurian's Charitable Trust (GBCT).

Fr Philip Neri Aranha, parish priest Barkur, symbolically inaugurated the house by cutting a ribbon. Fr MC Mathai, vicar general of St Mary’s orthodox Syrian cathedral Brahmavar blessed the renovated house and conducted the prayer service.

On the occasion Fr M C Mathai said, “We all see Richard smiling and joyful. The GBCT which is responsible to bring this happiness deserves to be congratulated more so as it made no discrimination to select the beneficiaries, not only in the past but more specifically in this case. Let such more works get Materialized through the GBCT for the benefit of the poor and down trodden."

A short programme to acknowledge the contributions, services and cooperation of all donors, leaders was also held. Joseph Fernandes, vice president St Peter Church Barkur, Dolphy D'Souza and Edna Gonsalves were honoured on the occasion for their relentless efforts in making the project come true.

Cyprian Pinto was honoured on behalf of all the donors.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr Philip Neri Aranha, parish priest Barkur said, “I am very happy to be here amidst two denominations of single Christian faith." He shared his emotions and congratulated Richard and thanked GBCT for its concern and care.

Trustees of Global Barkurian's Charitable Trust Divyanand Gonsalves and Kishore Gonsalves were present on the occasion. Trustee P Archibald Furtado compered the programme.

Richard Montiero expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the GBCT and all donors. Shalet Rodrigues proposed the vote of thanks.