Media Release

Mangaluru, Dec 22: A day when the staff of CODP and ISD a diocesan NGO 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 at Mother Theresa Hall, ISD for the well-wishers, neighbours, donors and all the staff of CODP-ISD. The participants were led into prayer by Reena and team. This was followed by short prayer by Fr Vincent D’Souza, director of CODP.

Dorice Fernandes, the compere of the day then welcomed to the dais, the chief guests Fr Siby Kaitharan, chairperson of Bandhavya and director of Sneha Sadana, Dr Jacintha D’Souza, DMO at Wenlock Hospital, Sr Violet, superior of Bethany Convent, Nanthoor, Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes, director of Canara Communication Centre.

Fr Vincent D’Souza welcomed the dignitaries, guests and other participants.  In his speech he explained that the core of Christmas is happiness. This happiness is received as per the beatitudes that is simplicity, mercy, trust, service, forgiveness and by sharing our goodness and time, he said. 

Fr Siby in his speech shared the situation of Manipur citizens and gave Christmas message.

Dr Jacintha D’Souza wished all those who were present, a happy Christmas and happy New Year 2024.     

Christmas Carols and dance performed by Bethany Junior sisters and CODP office staff. 

During this programme, Dr Jacintha D’Souza, DMO and the national fame dancer Remona Pereira were felicitated. 

Remona Pereira performed ‘Nativity of Jesus’ through Bharatanatyam Dance. In between the programme spot games were conducted by Nikeeta Fernandes and Sr Violet distributed the Christmas gifts and prizes to all the participants. 

The vote of thanks was given by Lydia Moras, coordinator of CODP.

The Christmas get-together came to a close with sharing of Kuswar and lunch.