Media Release
Mysuru, Dec 17: The Mysore diocesan commissions for the differently abled and prison ministry India organized a grand Christmas celebration at the Catholic Center Hall, Bannimantap, Mysuru. The event began with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by the apostolic administrator of the Mysore diocese, most rev Dr Bernard Moras, Archbishop (Emeritus).
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a vibrant cultural programme was performed by differently abled children from various institutes, including Mercy Convent, Srirampura; Montfort School; Sneha Kiran Spastic Society; and Spandana Special School. The audience enthusiastically cheered the children for their excellent and heartwarming performances.
To mark the festive spirit, gifts were distributed to all 100 differently abled children by archbishop Bernard Moras. Complementing the celebration, the children from Divya Krupa, Vidya Jyoti School, and the St Anne’s Luzern postulants added to the joy of the occasion with prayer dances and melodious christmas carols. The audience included differently abled children, their parents, and caretakers from various institutes.
In his address, archbishop Bernard Moras emphasized the catholic church’s commitment to inclusiveness for all children, regardless of ability or talent. Quoting the compassionate love of Pope Francis for differently abled children, he underlined the church’s responsibility to ensure they feel welcomed and cherished. Notably, this was the first such large-scale event for differently abled children in the Mysore diocese.
The chief guest, Esthelle D’Souza, secretary of the commission for the differently abled in the Karnataka region, shared her inspiring journey of raising her 23-year-old differently abled child, despite societal pressures to abort. She extended her support and encouragement to parents raising children with disabilities, promising assistance whenever needed.
The event also honoured brother Jayaprakash, superior general of DDS, who was felicitated by archbishop Bernard Moras for his dedicated service in the prison ministry. Coordinators from prison ministry units in Mysuru, Nanjangud, K R Nagar, Chamarajanagar, and Madikeri presented reports on their impactful work in prisons across their respective regions.
The celebration was made possible through the generous sponsorship of gifts by the faculty and staff of St Joseph’s Nursing College and M/s Lunars Company as main donors.
The programme was beautifully compered by Bernie Fernandes and Reena, with soulful choir accompaniment led by Nitin and his team. Fr Thomas Baros welcomed the gathering, and Sr Mable D’Silva, SCB, delivered the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a festive serving of cake, tea, and food for all participants.
Prominent attendees included monsignor Alfred Mendonsa (vicar general), Fr Joseph Marie (coordinator of Diocesan Commissions), Fr Sebastian (financial administrator), Fr Abilash (Bishop’s secretary), Fr Thomas Baros (secretary, commission for the differently abled), and Dr Michael Noronha (diocesan secretary, Prison Ministry India).
The christmas celebration was a memorable occasion, bringing together faith, inclusivity, and the festive spirit of giving and joy.