Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 20: St Sebastian Church celebrated its Parish Day on January 19, with the feast of St Sebastian. The celebration began with the distribution of candles to PPC members, sponsors, and benefactors, symbolizing their contributions and support to the parish community.
The feast Mass commenced presided over by the main celebrant, Fr Joseph Martis vicar of Derebail parish, alongside the vicar, Fr Walter D’Souza. They were joined by assistant priests Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Fr Vivek Pinto, Fr Denzil Lobo, Fr Arun Lobo (principal of Padua College), and priests from neighbouring parishes. Fr Joseph Martis delivered a heartfelt sermon centered on the Parish Day theme, ‘Let us build a parish community of hope.’
As part of the jubilee year celebrations, nine crosses were blessed to be circulated among the homes in the parish, symbolizing unity and faith within the community.
The stage programme began with a devotional prayer dance performed by the children, setting a reverent tone for the evening. Vice president Vinod D’Souza extended a warm welcome to the guests and parishioners. This was followed by the PPC secretary, Patsy Britto, presenting the annual report, detailing the parish’s activities and achievements over the past year.
A special highlight was the Parish Day group song, written and composed by the vicar, Fr Walter D’Souza, which was sung by the parishioners. The celebration also included a felicitation ceremony to honour achievers from the parish:
• William Antony D’Souza, Munita Veigas Rao, and St Agnes Teachers Training Institute – Honoured for receiving the Rajyotsava Award.
• Ethan Paul Mascarenhas – Recognized for holding a national record in swimming and being selected to represent India at the SAARC Games.
• Dr Denis Rodrigues and Dr Reema Jenifer D’Silva – Commended for earning their PhDs.
• Akin Crasta – Celebrated for securing 3rd place at the national level karate championship.
• Jane Sequeira – Acknowledged for receiving national-level appreciation from the prison ministry of India.
• Joyson Sequeira and Joyline Sequeira – Honoured for winning medals at the state level philatelic exhibition.
Prizes for the sports and cultural competitions conducted during the year were also distributed. The championship trophy was awarded to Lotus, Ferns, and Zenia Zones for their outstanding performances in various activities.
In his address, the vicar expressed heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, sponsors, and parishioners for their unwavering support and dedication to the parish community. He reiterated the importance of the Parish Day theme and encouraged continued unity and cooperation.
The cultural programme featured captivating performances, including a mesmerizing dance by CAL members and an elders' team, which left the audience enthralled. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Deepak D’Souza, convenor of 21 commissions, acknowledging the efforts of everyone involved.
Fr Arun Lobo blessed the meals, and the parishioners came together to enjoy the dinner prepared at the church. The event was seamlessly hosted by Melani Lisha D’Souza, who served as the master of ceremonies. The celebration was a testament to the spirit of togetherness and faith that defines the St Sebastian Church community.