Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 17: The Christmas Bandutva 2024 program was organized by St Sebastian Church, Bendur, on December 16 in the church premises. This vibrant and inclusive event was conducted under the joint effort of the commissions for interreligious dialogue, commission for small christian communities, commission for youth, catholic sabha, and CAL members.
The event was graced by the presence of several esteemed guest Fr Vincent Menezes, professor at St Joseph’s Seminary, Jeppu, Shree Krishna Adiga, priest of Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple, CA K P Mohammad Isack, chairman of Hira Media, Mangalore, Fr Walter D’Souza, parish priest of St Sebastian Church, Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant parish priest, Fr Vivek Pinto, assistant parish priest, Fr Denzil Lobo, assistant parish priest, Fr Arun Lobo, principal of Padua College, Vinod D’Souza, vice president of the parish pastoral council, Patsy Britto, secretary of the parish pastoral council, Deepak D’Souza, convenor of 21 commissions.
Additionally, ex mla of Mangalore South J R Lobo, Mangaluru City Corporation corporators A C Vinayraj, Shakila Kava, Kavya Nataraj, member of district endowment committee Chandrakala, member of district land tribunal Girish Shetty and Nelson Monteiro, theatre and film actor Naveen D Padil, GST assistant commissioner Sanjay Balipa, ESI office superintendent Panduranga Mety as well as president of architects guilds Ar Supreeth Alva were present for the event.
The programme began with a ceremonial lighting of the lamp in front of the beautifully decorated crib, symbolizing the light of Christ and the spirit of Christmas. Following this, children performed a graceful prayer dance that set a serene and festive tone for the evening. The program continued with a beautifully enacted tableau on the life of Jesus, presented by the children of St Theresa School, capturing the essence of the nativity story.
Carols were sung in multiple languages, including Konkani, English, Kannada, Hindi and Tulu, by the children’s choir, Bethany sisters, youth choir, and elders' choir teams, enriching the multicultural essence of the celebration.
A special dance performance by CAL members alongside santa claus added a joyful and entertaining element to the evening.
The vice president of the parish pastoral council, Vinod D’Souza, extended a warm welcome to the gathering. The chief guests shared insightful speeches. Shree Krishna Adiga emphasized that Bandutva (Brotherhood) is not an option; it is a must. CA K P Mohammad Isack highlighted the importance of all religions in fostering harmony and unity. Fr Vincent Menezes delivered an inspiring message that underscored the spirit of interreligious dialogue and collaboration. Fr Walter D’Souza delivered the presidential address, reinforcing the significance of unity and brotherhood in celebrating Christmas.
A unique feature of the event was the recognition and honouring of 45 daily service providers who contribute significantly to the community. These included street sweepers, newspaper vendors, milk and fruit sellers, fish vendors, grocery suppliers, KEB linemen, and streetlight operators. This gesture highlighted the church’s commitment to inclusivity and gratitude. Patsy Britto, secretary of the parish pastoral council, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all contributors and participants. The evening concluded with the distribution of Kuswar (traditional Christmas sweets) to all attendees, symbolizing the joy and togetherness of the festive season. The Christmas Bandutva 2024 programme was a remarkable celebration of unity, love, and gratitude, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.